Mary’s pain level seems to have increased since last week’s visit. She was experiencing tremors in her shoulder and leg. When we arrived, she was seated in her wheelchair in the hallway, having just been wheeled back to the unit after lunch. I didn’t see her at first, but then noticed a woman smiling over at James. I realized that it was Mary. She was smiling and waving to us to come and sit by her. It was then that I noticed the tremors and the visible pain on her face. I’m not feeling well, she said in her soft, whispery voice. I’m in a lot of pain. But, I’m so glad you brought James to see me.
In order to get close to Mary, James (all 68 lbs. of him) sat on my lap (he does think of himself as a lap dog, sometimes!). He then placed his head on her lap and she proceeded to pet him. Mary noticed that the fur on his ears and head seemed extra soft today. I told her that he had been bathed and trimmed over the weekend. He looks really nice, she said with a smile. Then, she bent her face close to his and said, Give me a kiss, James. To which he complied. Oh, did she grin! Although, I noticed… the tremors continued. Would you please ask someone to get me in bed. I’m in so much pain. We left her being helped back into bed – and she waved us good-bye. James’ visit, although short, seemed to help ease her pain… even if just for a few moments.
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