Maria was referred to a neurologist in her neighborhood. Today she made her first visit. Naoko Ma came to accompany Maria to the doctor's office.
Naoko Ma came to pick me up at 10:30
A black flared skirt
Lift the left foot, lift the right foot, hold onto me
A dress-up doll is limpThey arrived at Okabe Clinic for initial consultation. Dr. Okabe would be her primary care physician and would make house calls. Her major concern was if the physician would support her planned New York trip.
"Is it a problem to go to New York? Should I worry about the brething due to air pressure?" I asked.
"New York? That's great. I would encourage you to do whatever you enjoy," the Doc said,
"I will write a letter to explain your condition. No problem."
"I believe we should support patients to live the life they wish to as much as possible."Thus, Dr. Okabe would become Maria's emotional supporter for the coming months.
Today, Maria's former boss, Mr. Seki, would come to see her all the way from Osaka. A small get-together among the former NY colleagues was planned. MAMA came to help her to get ready for the outing. Then, one of the former NY colleagues, Mr. Sasa came to accompany Maria to the venue.
MAMA came.
We chatted about old days and life in general, while I put my makeup.
The time for reminiscences was ticking away.
I would sure remember this,
When I lie alone in a bed immobile.
Sasa came to pick me up.
The back of the wheelchair was warm with his presence.
Mama passed the baton to Sasa, "I hope you will take good care of her."
12 people came to the get-together, one of the former colleagues, Eiko, joined via skype from New York. Maria had a good time with them.
3:00 am
Today is coming to the end without an incidnt.
Your caring about me touched my heart and soul.
It touched my eyes and tears welled up in my eyes.
I don't know why the happier I am, the sadder I feel.
The sound of farewell is very quiet.
Because I can't find a word.
Poem by Maria Franki
Edited and Translated by J. Ujiie
©2011
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