oncology

Where did the end find you?

Were you outside by the dumpster 

on a cigarette break,

relaxing between the arms of your sofa

and sips of white zinfandel?

No, that is not where you were.

Your tumors had grown over the years

like storm clouds gathering together on the horizon.

While the sky darkened you mistook the thunderheads

for arthritis in your flat feet.

Maybe it was the orthotics that needed adjusting,

maybe that was what caused 

the lightning strikes  in your side.

You thought it over between commercials 

during the evening news.

Your horses ran laps in the mornings

and ate carrots out of the hands of my daughters

who were too young to notice the signs...

how the wind was picking up,

the leaves turning upside down,

the horses peculiarly nervous.

They asked you innocently enough,

"How are you uncle Vince?"

And neither of you were any wiser.

They didn't know to check the almanac.

The doctors had read it like an insurance policy,

mulled it over while making their decisions.

They had seen the signs before;

they knew the season was nigh.

By the time the rains started

it was too late for hospice;

the end had found you clenching,

robbed of your integrity,

the tumors raping you.

Author's Note

My good friend of many years Vince Vindetti died this evening of cancer. He had never been to a doctor. He didn't find out until it as too late. He was 73.

Reviews

[Linda alexander]

Sorry for the loss, oncology is a thief in many forms stealing the wealth in different phases, no true answers how we can make this villain surrender, powerful write

[melissa]

This is awesome poem keep up the great work and keep sending me more to read i love reading them

[Bright Ocean Star]

Xavier, I am so sorry. It is one of the hardest things to lose a friend. A lot of old guys don't like going to the doctor, so it isn't surprising that he didn't know until it was too late. Your poem is a beautiful reminiscent visit into his life and his last days. Nice write, my friend. Peace and hugs to you tonight.

[paul sal.....]

Hey Vince, I dint not know you but those that did, loved you, I cannot help but love the good hearted, as you were obviously are ......rest in peace......hope to meet you on the other side................some day......my name is paul

[Shaun Payton]

Sorry for your loss of your friend Xavier. A stirring piece, and also serves as a warning message, get checked ofbyou are not well.

[m.s.early]

Thank you so much for your review. That was exactly the message I was trying to get across

[Shaun Payton]

Is important one too.

[Lyn Anderson]

First, let me say sorry for your loss. And then, let me say, what a wonderful poem that so aptly describes this event. Then, let me ask, lightening? Is that intentional? I would think lightning more dramatic, but you may have your reasons. Nice to see you.

[m.s.early]

Thank you KL. I fixed it :)

[lost girl]

I'm sorry for your loss Xavier. It is never easy to let them go or to not blame our selves for a lack of attention to the stopwatch...As many times now that I have watched death. I am thankful that she didn't leave me the inheritance of knowing when......