Illness

There was sadness in the room. A man struggling to breathe, lying lifeless on the bed. His parents, wife, sister and seven young children were all around his bed holding his hand. Friends and neighbours were in the kitchen praying hard for a miracle, but knew there was no hope. Everybody knowing but not saying that there was not much time now until he drew his last breath. Everyone was just waiting now for the moment to come when he was taken away from them.

This man was my uncle. He found out he had cancer four years ago. He was in his early forties. His youngest was seven years old. His bravery was an inspiration. It was a hard time for everyone.

He went for an operation in Tullamore. He had to go for treatments in Dublin. He never complained about it. We went to visit him often. He was very pale and sat beside the fire all the time. He always looked worn out.

It was a gusty Autumn evening we were just sitting down to eat our dinner at around ten to six when the shrill of the phone came. My mother answered it. The terrible news came that my uncle had died. He had slipped into a coma and died peacefully surrounded by his family. It was two years since he had found out he had cancer. There was a lot of sadness and anger.

Our parents would not let us go to the wake. My other cousins stayed with us.

The removal and the funeral were very sad. There was a big crowd at it. The priest said lovely things about him. His children read the readings and brought up gifts. It was very hard on his parents, as he was their only son.

We went to the house after the funeral. There was devastation and regret, as people did not get to say goodbye. We talked about all the little funny things he said and did.

My auntie and my seven cousins are cooping very well now. The oldest is minding the farm. The second oldest is in her first year in college. The youngest is getting her Confirmation this year.

I love thinking back to the good times we had with my uncle, John. I remember one year we met on holidays. We went to the beach and the pub together. He was fun to be with. We used to stay in their house (Claire, Mary and I) during the holidays. During his illness he never gave up fighting or hope, His courage and good humour will stick with us for life. He is someone who will never be forgotten.

Sinead B.