So, World Kidney Day is March 12.
Too ironic is our story:
Deborah… my wife, partner, and friend,
Recently passed after 42 years as soulmates.
She suffered Lupus and its organ complications
Much of that time, and in 1996 needed dialysis.
Within a year, her brother Paul
Donated a perfect 6 marker match.
He did it when donor surgery was painful;
Unlike the comparative ease of today.
Doctors suggested a good 10 years,
But Deb kept good watch over The Gift,
And it lasted 17 years.
Another brother Charles asked to be tested,
And a follow-up transplant was to be done in 2013.
(Deb was well-loved in her family)
All was in ready. But, it was not to be.
In an absurd travesty, Deb acquired ALS.
She succumbed to it last February.
But, for the years of quality living she gained
From that first Gift of Life, she was forever grateful.
And we, friends and family, shared so much with her
Over that time, that would not have been possible
Without The Gift.
She hiked mountain and canyon trails;
Rode mountain bikes; camped in deep wilderness;
Canoed lakes and rivers;
Sang and loved and laughed;
Saw nieces and nephews grow to adulthood;
Shared stories of her travels and adventures;
And we got to enjoy her beautiful smile
And her lovely blue eyes
A few more glorious and eventful years.
Have no doubts about what a Gift of Life can do.
Oh, sorry… the Irony…
Deb’s birthday is March 12.
3-10-2015
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
My condolences for your lose... Love never dies.. I can see that in your words.. Stay blessed
Love is all there is; my partner taught me so; I realize now how blessed I was and am.