COM Outlook Summer/Fall 2020

28 | DR. KIRAN C. PATEL COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE When it’s your grandma that calls you confused When it’s your grandma that’s fallen down When it’s your grandma that must be admitted to the emergency room When it’s your grandma alone Alone to protect her from COVID Alone because she might have COVID Alone at 90 years old in a hospital Alone in a beeping, flashing clutter of strangers and activity You think about the stories she used to tell you. You think about the gardens she used to plant on your back. You think about the $5 she still sends you every holiday. You think about the family history she taught you. She thinks, “When will they let me eat?” She thinks, “When will I get to water my plants and feed my birds?” She thinks, “Will I go home—or to heaven?” She thinks, “will I see anyone in my family ever again?” When it’s your grandma who has lost her bridge games with friends months ago When it’s your grandma who has lost so much weight because she’s afraid of germs from food delivery When it’s your grandma who has lost control and fallen down When it’s your grandma who lost her grandmother 102 years ago during the 1918 pandemic You think about mortality as her granddaughter. You think about mortality as her son’s daughter. You think about mortality as a future physician. You think about mortality as a mother and wife. BY ANONYMOUS When It’s Your Grandma POET Anonymous