Marking time

Blue aprons, washed hands,
mouth swabs, aloe vera gel,
saturated host on tongue.
Distressed coughing, suctioned secretions,
palliative care, eyes opening,
final goodbyes with each leave taking.
Thinking-of-you cards, past memories,
kisses, night prayers.
Moments of time,
marking time passing
in the slow movement of decline
towards your passing on.

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Lamb - Gorecki.