Waiting Room
6:15 AM
Waiting for an MRI
in a sterile room, no windows.
Alone but for an older couple—
She wears a neck brace (a previous injury, I guess).
He wears a wristband (indicating he is the patient).
She takes his hand
entwining their fingers protectively in her lap
and rubs his back in gentle circles.
They do not speak. No need. The die is cast. Brain tumor. Terminal.
Today an MRI to check if the surgery has mitigated the mess enough
for a little more time
together.
At 77, with horrors of my own,
I am beginning to learn of a vast subculture
of those who wait
day after day
in sterile rooms with no windows
For their Fate.
It’s an awful system we have (I work in it). It’s far too often cold and impersonal - and has sterile rooms with no windows. I’m sorry you’re going through this.
Hang in there. You choose your fate from the facts presented.