A sigh means so many things in cancer world…
He leaned back and there was a thump when he hit the back of the elevator. He let out a huge sigh just as he hit, so much so, it got my attention.
It was late in the day at the cancer center and as soon as I looked at him, I knew he’d been there since the crack of dawn.
His eye lids were draped over eyes that had seen too much of cancer this day.
When he looked over at me, all I could do was smile and say “Long day?” He barely smiled back, happy now, that the elevator provided such a strong shoulder for him to lean on. He nodded and almost in a whisper said, “My wife had so much to do today. She’s here for her cancer…and radiation.” “I’m just here for her.”
When the doors opened and he made his move to leave, I told him to take care of himself…that it’s important for her, that he stay rested and strong.
“It’s so hard,” he said “but I’ll try.”
“I know,” I answered.
May 8, 2013 @ 3:54 am
With a single sigh you already noticed his suffering and the good thing is you made him noticed that he’s not the only one who’s feeling that. I believe he was touched by your words.
May 6, 2013 @ 7:04 pm
Laurie, that you notice such small changes in body posture accompanied by almost silent sounds, sighs, means alot to those who have no idea that they have done those things. But you noticed and acknowledged them and gave them a sign that “you know how they feel.” Good for you…keep it up. We all need a little encouragement as we face the crisis of the day….a gentle touch, a word of comfort, a nod or even just eye contact….a balm that helps to soothe a harried soul.