Battle on All Fronts

It grows, clinging and climbing its way not just into flesh but mind, body, soul. The claws dig deep, attempting to bring down the human spirit, the will to live, the need for a promise to see beyond the month, year or decade. The word 'options' gets passed quickly almost without feeling as though it is a speech that has become too common. It has lost meaning, as options are the only thing that seems left. No option guaranteeing full success and all options coming with their risk.

The flesh is cut, poison is pumped into the body. Poison needed to defeat poison. Many are met with different results as treatment becomes a routine that seeps beyond the surgery. Waiting room artworks are gazed at and glassed over, blocking the landscapes from the ones who need hope most. No longer are parks entertained with delight, but with possible regret of memories that will never be made, memories that will feel the absence of life, memories that could have been.

At first company surrounds, prayers are offered up, meals are made, children babysat and partners supported with words of encouragement. But as the weeks progress bit by bit loneliness creeps in. Prayers are offered up for another community member battling the poison in another form receiving the  other 'option'.

It takes over at different speeds. At times, it allows farewells to be given, plans to be made and at other times, it strikes like a thief. For some it fades and allows healing to take place, but deep down there is always the fear. Regardless of routines and tests to make sure the poison is kept away, there is fear of return.

It is a battle. The front line moving backwards and forwards in a tug-of-war for victory. There are survivors, casualties... a disease that has far too many left at the front line never to return.

We then come to mourn together those who have fallen and hold onto the photos, the picture in mind, replaying them over and over again to ensure they are never forgotten.  Always embedded on our hearts, a scar leaving mixed memories of a life lived and the last moments when they are but a ghost of their true self.