On the 23rd of November 2016, my son, Johannes Theis, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. I have not posted any poems since that day. He is undergoing chemotherapy treatment and after the first treatment is now home but going to hospital daily. Second treatment will start soon. I am grateful that we are all together in Denmark and for the hospitals and treatments he has access to.
Today I slowly start sharing poems again.
Lifeboats
Mornings are hardest: you wake,
remembering, but not believing,
painfully convincing yourself again and again
that the impossible really is true.
Then through the hours you build your lifeboats,
clinging to technical things, understanding details.
Persuading yourself that knowledge is good and useful,
that you have some control, some role.
Mornings are hardest: you wake
crying from nightmares not as bad as the reality
you have to believe again and again
really is real.
Then through the days you build your lifeboats,
studying medical terms and prognosis,
explaining the mysteries to yourself and others
as if you have some power, some role.
Morning are the hardest, you wake
with sadness weighing down your limbs
and bones convince brain again and again
that the preposterous is fact.
Then through the weeks you build your lifeboats
not looking far ahead or behind,
focusing on the hour, the day
as if not thinking too much will take it away.
Nyborg 2016
If we could send out a lifeboat in response we would. Much love and strength to all the family at this difficult time.
Dearest Rila,
A perfect poem for all of those in pain: For all of us who are suffering in our circle of friends, family and community. My healing blessings go out to you and all of your loving and supported family and friends.: we embrace those lifeboats that come into our lives and gives us courage and fortitude~~~ always with friendship & love!
Rilla, sorry to get this news and sending positive thoughts and wishes to you and family. Beautiful poem!
You have been constantly in my thoughts since your last message. Strong poem but your heartache is palpable. Much love to you and Theis and all your family…..stay strong.
Wevare praying for you.
Lots of love…xxx
This is such a moving, but strong and powerfull poem. It is amasing the way you are able to express your feelings in a beautifull poem.
Strong poem Rilla ❤️ See you all soon….
Vi krydser ALT hvad vi har Rilla!! De varmeste og kærligste hilsner til jer alle!!!
Thinking of you, Rilla