“THAT SHOCKING MOMENT”

‘Tis hard to explain the shock that you feel,
Upon hearing of diseases no one can heal.
Emphysema is one, made me feel like heel,
Cheating my loved ones, gives them a raw deal!

Doctors may tell you that you have ten years,
Not really knowing how you deal with fears.
Your mind may go numb, eyes well up with tears,
Stomach may flop, knowing ‘Your End’ appears.

Gasping for air, your blood pressure will rise,
Fears overwhelm; the mouth suddenly dries!
For a few moments, you wrestle with cries,
Disbelieving your ears, then finally realize.

Now your life changes, the choices you make,
Suddenly identify if you’re really a flake!
You must have allies to de-lay your wake,
So pull it together, this won’t be a clambake!

Fighting to breathe with this dread disease,
Life will continue in spite of my wheeze.
Making new choices, some just to appease,
Activities are cancelled that would really please.

Priorities change; there’s less time to make
Decisions about life and things to forsake.
Your health will dictate the pleasures you take,
Best be real careful, can’t afford a mistake!

Don’t fall apart; there are worse things you see,
I’ll do what I must to pursue living by sea.
Scared out of my wits, I seek those who agree,
It’s not a death sentence, at least not for me!