Holding Back Tears

It's nine years in a row of continuous crisis
lost in the wilderness of a dry Oasis
on all long bones is the constant emphasis
for a condition which began as Tuberculosis.

The pain and discomfort, too much to bear
she is too ready for the worst to worry and fear
the weather smells nice but will mock and share
neighbours always smile but absolutely don't care.

The body fights just to prove it's a weaker host
medications and herbs, wholly trusted to do the most
yet, her days are numbered, she now communes with a ghost
the traffic light turns red and Earth, no longer her post.

For a forty year old, this shouldn't be the end
I hold back the tears, I cannot pretend
my Aunt's life, God, please extend
all the Angels you have, oh Lord, gather and send.

Counting in weeks, she may not have two more
misfortune slowly acts on eventuality's rumour
a silent killer eats, evident by a weaker femur
a terrible relapse and this time, it's more than one tumour.

9th. August. 2021
This or That, Vol 5 Poetry Contest- Holding back Tears.
Sponsored by Edward Ibeh.

4th Position
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021

Poem

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Radhakrishna Avatar
June 8, 2024 at 2:04 PM
Sad story but a winning entry! Congrats on your win! TB is curable and is no longer as feared as it was once!
Ibeh Avatar
August 20, 2021 at 8:48 AM
Such a wonderful write, Funom:-) Heartiest congratulations on your win in my contest!
Makama Avatar
August 24, 2021 at 10:03 AM
Thank you very muh Edward Ibeh
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