The Caribbean June/2014

         A group of palliative care physicians suggested in an article published in Volume 15, Number 2, of the Summer 2014 issue of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, that 55-word stories (with a title) would be a creative way for doctors and other health care providers to “capture a precious moment, an insight, and an appreciative reflection on life and caring for others.” Thus I have chosen this method of journaling for this bit of travel that Debbie and I will share June 24 to July 5, 2014. I hope you enjoy these very short stories; I hope they capture the experience for you as we lived and are living it.

A Prelude

Moments Count

         No more treatments now, the next stage is the last one so every moment counts. We travel, Debbie and I, to see the world, experience the life and times of people and cultures, and to enjoy each other. I call it Stage V, and in many respects it has been the best stage of all.

Quality of Life

         In our experience, social medicine trumps clinical every time. Maintaining the physical body may be a prerequisite, but if used wisely, it will enable one’s quality of life. It is the main goal in our plan of care, thus we are fully committed to it. We are off to the high seas.

Stuff

         George Carlin made fun of all the “stuff” we take on vacations. Our cabin aboard a large cruise ship will, however, hold all our essentials. As one well-travelled lady once told me, “Young man, dying at sea is ok with me.” I agree; needless to say, I can’t take “stuff” to where I am going.

Flying High Sober

         First-class Chicago to San Juan but no booze for this guy; gave that up thirty plus years ago. “But David, you are Stage IV, let’s go live it up!” I say, “What! Why would I want to numb and miss the precious moments I have remaining. Not a single one buddy, no thanks, not me.”

Waiting

         I am acutely aware of anything that might suggest that Stage IV is coming to an end; the slightest symptom gets my attention. It may be a sign of rapids beginning to gather before the waterfall. I wonder if it will be quick, painful, a burden; at home, awake, ready? I’m not afraid. I wait.