Sickness Poems

Poems for when a Loved One is Sick

When a family member has an illness, the entire family can be affected. The way that the illness is dealt with has an affect on the entire family. Some mothers or fathers feel that it is best to discuss the illness as little as possible with their children because they don't want to worry them. This can often have the opposite effect. Because the children know something is going on, but they don't know what, it often feels more scary for them. It is often best to give them as much information as they ask for. In this way they will feel part of what is going on.

39 Poems About Sickness and Pain

1. Living With Dementia
- By Annabel Sheila
- Published by Family Friend Poems July 2008
Dedicated to every family whose parent is suffering with dementia or alzheimer's disease.

She's trapped inside the prison walls
That used to be her mind.
The woman that she used to be,
Has long been left behind.

She's trapped inside the prison walls
That used to be her mind.
The woman that she used to be,
Has long been left behind.

There are times she's quite alert,
Her memory's still intact.
Then there are days when she disappears,
And we know it's not an act.

No longer able to care for herself,
We couldn't leave her alone.
Her safety had to be assured,
So we placed her in a home.

Good days are when we visit her,
And she calls us by our name.
She's grateful for the company,
And thankful that we came.

Most of the time it's difficult,
To see our Mom that way.
All we can do is love her now,
As we take life day by day.

More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 20
- Shares 944
- Favorited 21
- Votes 238
- Rating 4.39
Featured Shared Story

Would love to read some of your experiences. I am currently caring for and have two care givers looking after my 80 year old mother.

Share your story! (20)

2. I'm A Person Too
- By Dawn Mazzola
- Published by Family Friend Poems December 2010
I'm a CNA in a nursing/rehab center, and love what I do. I've been in the medical field for 14 years and couldn't ask for a more rewarding job. I wrote this poem by putting myself in a patients shoes while writing.

Poem From Patient To Hospital Staff

Here I lie in bed again, Awaiting my next meal.
A worker barges in my room, As if it's no big deal.

What ever happened to courtesy? Just a little knock.

Here I lie in bed again, Awaiting my next meal.
A worker barges in my room, As if it's no big deal.

What ever happened to courtesy? Just a little knock.
Do you think I'm just a vegetable, Laying here like a rock?

What ever happened to manners? I haven't got a clue.

BUT KEEP IN MIND AND DON'T FORGET, THAT I'M A PERSON TOO.

I know I can not talk, Or even joke around.
But I'm well aware of everything, and also every sound.

If you have another worker help, change me during rounds.
Please don't talk about me, as if I'm not around.

Treat me with respect, the same I'd give to you.

KEEP IN MIND AND DON'T FORGET, THAT I'M A PERSON TOO.

My bones are stiff and achy, I hear you say I'm contracted.
My belly hurts, I haven't pooped, I hope I'm not impacted.

I'm sorry I may drool, and at times I even stare.
It's not easy being old, aging isn't fair.

These are the cards God dealt me, There's nothing I can do.

JUST KEEP IN MIND AND DON'T FORGET, THAT I'M A PERSON TOO.

I used to be a lively one, just like your pretty self.
I traveled, married, and worked long hours until I lost my health.

I press my light to see a face, Or just for company.
For someone just to look inside, and realize that I'm ME.

You walked past my light, what am I to do?

PLEASE REMEMBER I'M A PERSON TOO.

I'm sorry that I messed the bed, I feel like such a baby.
I'm so embarrassed, and ashamed, that I'm doing this at eighty.

I'm sorry I couldn't hold it, I didn't know what to do.

KEEP IN MIND AND DON'T FORGET, THAT I'M A PERSON TOO.

I wish that I was able, to communicate some way.
So finally I'd get the chance, to say what I want to say.

I hear you talk with other patients, so please don't walk away.
If everyone showed a little compassion, I wouldn't feel this way.

My name is Helen, and I'm all alone.
Cancer took my husband, he had it in his bones.

We had one child, our precious son.
Until his life was taken by a gun.

So here I am, no family left, as loneliness weighs heavy on my chest.

I may be sad, I may be blue.

PLEASE REMEMBER I'M A PERSON TOO.

Next time my light is on, come and see if I'm OK.
I'm a retired nurse of thirty years, and would love to hear about your day.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 16
- Shares 2290
- Favorited 43
- Votes 583
- Rating 4.66
Featured Shared Story

I too worked as a CNA for 15 plus years and then I choose to do private home health care. I always respected my residents and my private clients and demanded that everyone else did. They each...

Read complete story

Share your story! (16)

3. In His Hands
- By Jamie A. Cirello
- Published by Family Friend Poems June 2007
This was just how I felt when I found out my dad had cancer, just my thoughts and feelings.

Finding Out Dad Is Sick

I heard some bad news today, something that made me scared,
Today I found out my dad has cancer; it was something I had always feared.
I knew many people that passed away because of this evil cell,
Yet I know of some that beat it, and of course turned out well.

I heard some bad news today, something that made me scared,
Today I found out my dad has cancer; it was something I had always feared.
I knew many people that passed away because of this evil cell,
Yet I know of some that beat it, and of course turned out well.
The fact that my dad is sick, just completely blows my mind,
When this poison is inside of him, and the cure they cannot find.
My mom is really upset, and doesn't know what to do,
My sister cries herself to sleep and sometimes I find myself doing it too.
I know I have to be strong, and my prayers are always said,
But the question is: Does anyone really hear me when I'm lying there in bed?
What doesn't kill us makes us stronger, that's why I always have hope,
But with each passing day that it's on my mind, I find it really hard to cope.
I promised myself that no matter what, I would stay strong for my dad,
His feelings he does not show really well, but I know that he is sad.
I know our fate is in your hands God, but please have mercy on his soul,
Hold his hand and watch over him, as his treatment he will soon undergo.
Help him through this struggle, as he is precious to me like a pearl,
God, please listen for our prayer's..........signed....daddy's little girl!
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 8
- Shares 191
- Favorited 8
- Votes 55
- Rating 4.64
Featured Shared Story

I have a friend. Her 8-year-old girl is diagnosed with a brain tumor. I want a poem to comfort her and tell her everything will be fine. This will be her second operation. She is still young.

Share your story! (8)
4. Changing Places
- By Alora M. Knight
- Published by Family Friend Poems August 2015
I always felt that of the over 500 poems that I have written, this one was the most insightful as it was written when my older sister started through this pattern. Now, at 92, I am watching myself carefully and thanking God I am still OK. I'm also glad that I lived through the era when music was music and poetry was rhythm and rhyme. I am grateful for my file of special letters from people from all over the world who read my poetry and let me know they were amused, comforted, or inspired.

Poem About When A Loved One Has Alzheimer's

I see the sadness in your eyes,
The times that you are knowing
What's happening to your wondrous mind,
The symptoms you are showing.

I see the sadness in your eyes,
The times that you are knowing
What's happening to your wondrous mind,
The symptoms you are showing.

It was so hard to recognize
When they started coming through.
The little things that changed you
From the person that I knew.

The doctor's confirmation
Was so hard to accept,
To know that little could be done,
That there's no cure as of yet.

Forgive me, dear, if sometimes
I give in to my frustrations.
It's just so overwhelming,
This change in our relations.

Now I'm the one to be on guard,
To keep you safe from harm,
Protecting you the best I can
And not showing my alarm.

I hope you still can understand
How much you mean to me.
Though you curse me or forget me,
I'll accept what has to be.

For I will still remember
The joys that we once shared.
You showed me in so many ways
How very much you cared.

I pray to God to give me strength
To do what must be done,
To trust that in the future
This battle will be won.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 6
- Shares 1611
- Favorited 47
- Votes 330
- Rating 4.56
Featured Shared Story

Memories! I was 53, he 54 when the complications of Alzheimer's took him. At his prime as an exporter, his secretary fell for him. I left and visited Canada for 3 months, but on my return,...

Read complete story

Share your story! (6)

5. Living With Dementia
- By Emma L. Buckley
- Published by Family Friend Poems October 27, 2021
I wrote this poem to raise awareness of people suffering from dementia. I work as a caregiver, and until starting this job, I didn't understand much about dementia or how it affected people. I would like to share my newfound knowledge with others and ensure that everyone knows that it isn't just "being forgetful" or "being difficult" and that it is just as distressing for those suffering as it is for those around them.

Dementia Awareness

My mind is not what it once was:
wilting like a rose.
One thing you must remember:
this is not the life I chose.

My mind is not what it once was:
wilting like a rose.
One thing you must remember:
this is not the life I chose.

Memories grow more distant
each and every day.
I never once considered
that I'd end up this way.

So please hold judgement.
Let me be.
Please be patient.
I am still me.

It takes a little longer now for me to understand
but with your help, I will.
My moods and symptoms vary,
but I am human still.

Dementia comes in many forms,
we need to spread the word.
Make everyone you know aware,
as they may not have heard.

I hope we find a cure one day,
for I feel like I'm stuck.
Researchers work very hard,
I pray they have some luck.

My mind is not what it once was:
wilting like a rose.
One thing you must remember:
this is not the life I chose.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 5
- Shares 190
- Favorited 8
- Votes 141
- Rating 4.59
Featured Shared Story

Sometimes you just NEED a break. My parents' assisted living center is short on staff, and I'm trying to be there more. Last night I fed them BOTH and then (with my horrible back with tumors...

Read complete story

Share your story! (5)
6. Past, Present, Future
- By Hali
- Published by Family Friend Poems February 2016
I never go to sleep at night without the fear that tomorrow may bring pain. This is life as an Epileptic.

Poem About Life With Epilepsy

My eyes glistening with tears,
But not yet fallen.
I'm crying, but they're silent tears.
I'm crying on the inside so you are unable to see

My eyes glistening with tears,
But not yet fallen.
I'm crying, but they're silent tears.
I'm crying on the inside so you are unable to see
All the pain running though me.

I never sleep,
For fear of what tomorrow might bring.
How can I be so lost
In a place I know so well?
How can I be so broken
In a family so together?
How can I be so confused
Surrounded by so many?

Always forced to fight.
A fight I never seem to win.
God only knows such a fact.
I've fought for so long.
When will this ever end?
Sometimes I walk past everyone as if I were invisible.

Everything's moving with no place to go.
I tell myself that everything's going to be ok,
But it's seizures.
The time it took to change me.
The life I had, I can't have back.
Yet I can't see why all these tears feel so unreal.
I'm not the same, my words are still unsaid.
So instead, I write them on paper.
What I hide is buried deep within me.

So many tears I have shed in the dark,
Hidden away in the privacy of my own thoughts,
Only to be shelved with morning's first light
Because of no courage to speak of my pain.
And it hurts to know that I'll never be the same,
Knowing I'll never be the girl I used to be.
If you only knew what I've been through,
Or maybe you could take a walk in my shoes,
Because this is sometimes how I feel.

A WISH JUST TO BE SEIZURE FREE
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 5
- Shares 609
- Favorited 26
- Votes 77
- Rating 4.53
Featured Shared Story

My dad had epilepsy, and i remember waking up in the middle of the night to hear him crying because of his seizures, because he had accidentally hurt one of us. As a kid I was always having...

Read complete story

Share your story! (5)
7. Stay Strong
- By Samantha
- Published by Family Friend Poems August 2008
I am 17 years old. I have been very sick for the last 7 years. I have something called NF1, it makes you very sick at times. I go to a lot of doctors, I have had brain surgery, I can't get out in the heat it makes me really sick. The bad thing about this is my older sister is 18 years old and she's has the same thing. She's always sick, but she loves to draw and can very well. We both are very sick, but the Lord blessed us with other things we can do. I write poems.....and she draws, and we both are living and have a great family...so what more could we ask for?

Staying Strong With Illness

I have this illness
that I've suffered from for so long
and I don't know how,
but I've got to find a way to stay strong,

I have this illness
that I've suffered from for so long
and I don't know how,
but I've got to find a way to stay strong,
I wish I could get over it really quick
because it's making me go insane
and it hurts when people pick
It just causes so much pain
I just wish I could stay strong
It really bothers me
because I don't know what's wrong
I'm telling myself not to cry
but it's so hard to try
there's got to be a way for me to stay strong

As the days go by
I feel worse and worse
so many things have gone wrong
and it's just so hard to stay strong
I've got to cry
so as the tears run down my eyes
I realized I don't have the strength
to stay strong
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 5
- Shares 54
- Favorited 10
- Votes 22
- Rating 4.27
Featured Shared Story

Stay strong you'll make it through it's so hard I know it's true, but think of what it will be at the end, a story to tell. You've been through thick and thin and you ask yourself will it...

Read complete story

Share your story! (5)
8. Grandpa I Love You
- By Keali B. Wilbur
- Published by Family Friend Poems February 2006
We don't want to let go of our loved ones even when it's time.

Grandpa I love you and I always will.
It makes me so sad to see you so sick,
I wonder why you were god's pick?
maybe because you were such a good man ...

Grandpa I love you and I always will.
It makes me so sad to see you so sick,
I wonder why you were god's pick?
maybe because you were such a good man
Or maybe because he has his own little plan.
whatever it is it's hard to see you this way,
Do you remember when we used to play?
Or when we used to sit and talk all day?
I don't know what I'll do without you, or if I will ever get by.
Everybody tells me its going to happen sooner
or later I don't want to have to say good-bye.
I know that you will be a lot happier and a lot less confused,
But when it comes time for me to say my last good-bye, I will think to myself and remember that god has a plan and everything will work out in the end.
I just want you to know that I will love you forever and always.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 4
- Shares 134
- Favorited 8
- Votes 37
- Rating 4.49
Featured Shared Story

My grandad is currently in hospital with a worsening case of cancer! it isn't certain he is going to die but he is not it a good place at all! We live far away and I don't see him often at...

Read complete story

Share your story! (4)
9. One Wish
- By Lindsey N. Smith
- Published by Family Friend Poems February 2006
A woman prays to God to heal her sick mother and make her pain and suffering go away.

Prayer For A Mother Who Is Sick

If I had one last wish to make it would have to be,
that God would heal my mom and give her pain to me.
For I've never seen my mom hurt so bad in all my life,
I'd do anything and everything to take her pain and strife.

If I had one last wish to make it would have to be,
that God would heal my mom and give her pain to me.
For I've never seen my mom hurt so bad in all my life,
I'd do anything and everything to take her pain and strife.
She's the only one who never lost complete faith in me,
without her here by my side I'm not sure where I'd be.
We didn't always get along but then again who does,
she taught me about the
Real world and what life really was.
I think I owe her one for all the hell I put her through,
so God if you can grant this wish for me I'll eternally be grateful to you.
And if my mom ever decides to ask why her life suddenly changed this way,
do me a favor and let her know that I said Happy late Mother's Day.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 3
- Shares 902
- Favorited 22
- Votes 267
- Rating 4.58
Featured Shared Story

To my mother, Virginia Galvan, from her firstborn. I love you, Mommy, and I pray to God that you will be all right. I pray that he will be with you and make you strong like the person he...

Read complete story

Share your story! (3)
10. Shell Of A Person I Once Knew
- By Juli Nielsen
- Published by Family Friend Poems August 2014
This poem is about losing someone without them being dead. My family has suffered a lot of loss. My father passed away suddenly in 2012 from congestive heart failure. Shortly thereafter my mother became quite ill and has never been the same. When we were growing up, my mother was extremely bubbly. She was a friend to everyone she met. She is extremely limited now. Due to her extreme illness, she does not talk much anymore. She does not communicate. She lies in her bed and listens to the TV all day long. She's no longer the mother I always knew and loved.

Poem About Losing A Mother While She Is Alive

You're the shell of the person I once knew.
When I talk, I know you can hear,
But I barely feel your spirit lingering near.

You're the shell of the person I once knew.
When I talk, I know you can hear,
But I barely feel your spirit lingering near.

You've given up... at least part way.
I can't help but envision the words that you'd say
If you weren't the shell of a person I once knew.

You express your love for me, but that's just it.
You'd rather I come and quietly sit.
I wish you were more than the shell of a person I once knew.

I love you with all of my heart and soul.
Sometimes I feel like I'm losing control
Because it's hard to see the shell of a person I once knew.

My heart hurts because I know you're aching.
Your body's there, but it's just the casing.
It's the shell of a person I once knew.

I don't want you to die; I'd be left here on earth,
But passing on brings peace and rebirth.
You'd be more than the shell of a person I once knew.

It's your choice in the end to fight or give up.
It's not our actions that define when or what...
Please be more than the shell of a person I once knew.

Release your spirit to Heavenly Father's grace.
Only then will you see his kind, smiling face.
No longer a shell of a person I once knew.

You'd be free from all the worldly limitations.
In heaven you'd be expressing exclamations,
Freed from the shell of a person I once knew.

You're not really the shell of a person I once knew;
You're my mother and I love you.
You're not a burden that I heavily have to bear;
You're strength, inspiration, and care.
You're kind and loving and all that I aspire to be.
It's selfish to want to keep you here close to me.

You get to choose how long you want to stay,
So I'll keep on coming every day.
I'll rub your feet and scratch your back,
Read you your line up and help you take a bath.

Mom, take your time, it's patience I'm learning.
I'm developing and my soul's constantly yearning.
Each lesson is coming... selflessness and humility.
You're who I want to be.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 3
- Shares 111
- Favorited 18
- Votes 21
- Rating 4.33
Featured Shared Story

I hear what you are saying. It hurts a lot I know. When I was born my mothers lung both collapsed and when the doctor put a tube of oxygen into her lungs, it had golden staff on it. For the...

Read complete story

Share your story! (3)
11. Grandma
- By Jessica K. Riley
- Published by Family Friend Poems February 2006
As her grandmother lays sick, she pleads to her to hold on and live to get better for there are so many whom she is precious to.

Don't Give Up Poem

O Grandma, O Grandma, don't ever give up hope.
All you family and friends are learning to cope.
Please stay strong and never stop praying.
You will get better soon; that's what everyone is saying.

O Grandma, O Grandma, don't ever give up hope.
All you family and friends are learning to cope.
Please stay strong and never stop praying.
You will get better soon; that's what everyone is saying.

You are Grandpa's life; please stay with him.
If you were to leave us, the world would be so grim,
You are on our minds every minute of every day.
You would never get sick if I had it my way.

Loving and generous is what you are.
Everyone who loves you isn't too far.
I can't tell you how much I care about you.
I know you'll get better; I know this is true.

There is one thing that you have to promise me you'll do,
Please beat this thing and keep your faith too,
Don't ever give up hope and don't ever say goodbye,
because God is with you and so am I.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 3
- Shares 643
- Favorited 10
- Votes 128
- Rating 4.30
Featured Shared Story

Beautiful poem. I love it. One of my favorite poems on this website.

Share your story! (3)
12. My Father
- By Lizzette Cambron
- Published by Family Friend Poems February 2006
A boy watches his father in wallow in sickness. He is torn between his desire for his father to escape the pain, and his desire to continue to see his father live.

Dad's Illness

My father is ill
And fading away
Still here for a while
And a few more days...

My father is ill
And fading away
Still here for a while
And a few more days
I'm grateful he's here
Not a moment to spare
I love him so much
For him I care
I'm wishing he stays to see me wed
And see my first baby in its tiny bed
Him being gone I could not handle
Every night I would light him a beautiful candle
If he was to go
I'm happy to know
To fly away he would spread his wings
And listen as his guardian angel sings
I'll be happy to know he's in a better place
Even though I'll never forget his lovely face
A great father he is
No daddy is better
No one will ever be
No matter whoever
He is also very handsome
With his baby blue eyes
And his jet-black hair
It makes me cry
He has so many tubes and liquids to gain
I wish he would just go
And feel no more pain
In a way, I want him to stay
And hear him say,
' My sweet little daughter it will be okay'
If God wants him free
I'll need one last touch
He'll be in a better place
And I will miss him very much
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 2
- Shares 141
- Favorited 4
- Votes 57
- Rating 4.70
Featured Shared Story

This made me cry, such a great poem. My dad has multiple sclerosis and has lived in a nursing home for 16 years. I'm only 20 so almost my whole life he has been in there. I know once he dies...

Read complete story

Share your story! (2)
13. Last Embers Verse I
- By BGW
- Published by Family Friend Poems January 5, 2022
This poem is about the pain of watching someone loved so very much just slowly fade away.

Slowly Losing A Loved One

The clarity of my mind has faded.
Those vibrant thoughts, slowly washed away.
Memories once so strong, are now so distant.
Names of those I held so dear, escape me now.

The clarity of my mind has faded.
Those vibrant thoughts, slowly washed away.
Memories once so strong, are now so distant.
Names of those I held so dear, escape me now.

My life is confused, unclear, like the darkness of the night.
The warmth of stories old, no longer take me back.
A life remembered fondly by so many, is hidden to me now.
Solemn times, so cherished and adored, no longer come to mind.

People look at me so lovingly, but I know not who they are.
Loving faces so unfamiliar, they no longer bring a smile.
No sign of love is felt, nothing lights my eyes.
How I wish I knew these people, and why I make them cry.

You hold my hand, I feel no love, no sense of who you are.
My thoughts so barren of recollection, so empty to my voice.
A life bereft of meaning, emotion and desire.
My life once so radiant, just the last few embers of the fire.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 2
- Shares 47
- Favorited 2
- Votes 27
- Rating 4.56
Featured Shared Story

I and (I'm guessing many hundreds of thousands of) others know exactly what you mean first-hand.

Share your story! (2)
14. Suffering Up Close
- By Patricia L. Cisco
- Published by Family Friend Poems July 2018
My poem is not a happy one, it is sad and it is real, and at some point in life many will come face to face with some type of suffering, but the most heart breaking suffering is that of someone we love, and we can be so close yet feel so helpless. I am sure that there are others that have felt this type of pain.

Suffering And Loss Of A Loved One

Suffering up close is so different from afar,
it's the supreme test in life,
to show what strengths there are.

Suffering up close is so different from afar,
it's the supreme test in life,
to show what strengths there are.

Will I have the strength,
to watch the pain I do not bare,
and help another through her cross
which she does not want to share.

Can I help her make it through the night,
until the dawn appears,
and will I be able to comfort her and wipe away her fears?

Yes, suffering up close is so different from afar,
You know when you've been through it,
when your heart wears sorrow's scar.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 2
- Shares 570
- Favorited 10
- Votes 137
- Rating 4.56
Featured Shared Story

Dear Melissa, I am so sorry it took me so long to reply to you. I am sorry for the loss of your father, my heart goes out to you. I wrote "Suffering Up Close" after my precious mother passed...

Read complete story

Share your story! (2)
15. Losing Me...Finding Me
- By Gabrielle Kruger
- Published by Family Friend Poems February 2017
In February 2010, at the age of 42, after a year of pain, confusion, and frustration, I was diagnosed with Parkinson's. Having always been a healthy, active, and energetic person, I struggled to adjust to a life of pain and uncertainty, and I had to come to terms with the loss of the person I had always been.
Gradually, with God at my side, supporting or sometimes even carrying me, I began to accept the new path I was required to tread.

Diagnosed With Parkinson's Disease

I look in the mirror and the person I see
Is someone who used to be me.
That person was strong and healthy, rarely ill,
And her energy was endless; she never sat still.

I look in the mirror and the person I see
Is someone who used to be me.
That person was strong and healthy, rarely ill,
And her energy was endless; she never sat still.

Then one day she disappeared behind my face,
And a stranger took her place.
I'm living in a body I no longer know,
And a pain from within me has begun to grow.

At night, when others sleep, I lie awake,
Feeling my body tremble and shake.
My limbs feel stiff and my muscles ache.
I feel like a rag doll about to break.

"What's wrong with me?" asks a voice from within.
"And whose body is this, under my skin?
Surely this isn't going to be the new me?"
Then a Higher Voice whispers, "Just accept it...it's meant to be."

I searched for answers...a diagnosis I needed.
A long 9 months later I found a doctor who heeded.
A condition was confirmed; I wasn't losing my mind.
Hypochondria it wasn't...Parkinson's was the find.

I have to keep going; this isn't the end.
Just a rough, rocky road with a very big bend.
I know God will help me; He never lets me down.
With His hand in mine, there's no need to frown.

More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 2
- Shares 321
- Favorited 28
- Votes 55
- Rating 4.49
Featured Shared Story

Sorry to hear that, Paul. Keep your head up, and I would love to hear more of your poetry and share some of your future journey. Sharing helps. Keep fighting

Share your story! (2)
16. Hush-A-By Baby, Don't Cry
- By Beatrice Alesana-Rennie
- Published by Family Friend Poems October 2009
This poem is dedicated to my little brother who has been very sick since the day he was born but he knows how to 'keep moving forward.'

Sister About Her Sick Little Brother

He grows everyday
And thinks 'never die'
Life he will live his way
Hush-a-by baby, don't cry...

He grows everyday
And thinks 'never die'
Life he will live his way
Hush-a-by baby, don't cry

Even though he's discriminated
He never asks why
He doesn't show he's intimidated
Hush-a-by baby, don't cry

The doctor's say he has limited time
And as the years pass him by
He becomes a relentless dime
Hush-a-by baby, don't cry

And as the sickness spreads
He doesn't whine or sigh
He isn't full of dread
Hush-a-by baby, don't cry

So the family, they prepare
But they put on a mask and lie
For maybe, maybe it will disappear
Hush-a-by baby, don't cry

And he says, now's my cue
Don't cry, for I'll be in the sky
Always watching over you
Hush-a-by baby, don't cry
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 2
- Shares 38
- Favorited 4
- Votes 9
- Rating 4.33
Featured Shared Story

This poem makes me sit here and just bawl because my baby brother is very sick. I know on my heart that I am going to out live him. It kills me to admit that but it is true. But this little...

Read complete story

Share your story! (2)
17. Dementia
- By Marie Matheny
- Published by Family Friend Poems December 17, 2021
I am dealing with a sister who has been diagnosed with dementia. The whole experience has been scary and devastating to watch her mind deteriorate while there is so little I can do to but keep her company and help her days by doing things with her. We try to enjoy the days and we try not to dwell on what we know is inevitable. It seems I have grown closer than I was with her before, and maybe that is because I know what is yet to come.

A Family Member With Dementia

There are times when things seem normal again
We laugh and talk about trivial things
We enjoy each other's company
But we can't deny the thought in our minds

There are times when things seem normal again
We laugh and talk about trivial things
We enjoy each other's company
But we can't deny the thought in our minds
Unspoken words of what lingers behind
Of knowing it will come sooner than we are ready for
I don't know if I will be able to stand the sorrow
Of losing you before your body goes
And sometimes I sit and cry alone
For it is hard to watch you slowly go....
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 2
- Shares 17
- Favorited 4
- Votes 9
- Rating 4.33
Featured Shared Story

Thank you so much for both of your comments on two of my poems. I wrote both from my heart and experience as I do all my poems. It is rewarding to know that I was able to convey my feelings...

Read complete story

Share your story! (2)
18. Dementia
- By Debbie Bell
- Published by Family Friend Poems December 2020
My beautiful mum passed away on the January 20, 2020. I looked after mum at home for 10 years and then mum was placed in a care facility where she was for 3 years.

Dementia From The Parent’s Perspective

Help me to remember
What I forget each day.
Don't let the dementia
Take my memories away.

Help me to remember
What I forget each day.
Don't let the dementia
Take my memories away.
Keep reminding me
What we used to do,
And always remember
I'll always love you.
You are my beautiful child,
That will never change.
Though the dementia
Will make me act strange,
It's not my fault, my love.
It's the dementia that I have.
It's what is does to you,
So try not to be sad.
Just hold my hand
And try to reassure me.
If I'm very confused
Just change the story.
At times I will be there.
I'll remember little things,
But then it will fade again
And sadness it will bring.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 1
- Shares 188
- Favorited 3
- Votes 33
- Rating 4.85
Featured Shared Story

My friends Dad has this. She would love this poem.

Share your story! (1)
19. Can He See Me?
- By Marian Shapcott
- Published by Family Friend Poems June 2011
My husband had a brain hemorrhage nine years ago that left him in a vegetative state. We have been married for forty one years. I go to see him every week, but he doesn't know me. Even though his eyes are open, he can't see and he can't move. He is in the royal hospital in Putney. He is in limbo and so am I. Life does go on, but it's not the same, and he will never get any better than he is now.

Waiting For Death Husband In A Vegetative State

Can he see me?
Can he hear me?
Does he know I'm there?
When I am standing at his bedside or sitting in a chair.

Can he see me?
Can he hear me?
Does he know I'm there?
When I am standing at his bedside or sitting in a chair.
My friends tell me to move on with my life,
but it is so hard
when I am still his wife.
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 1
- Shares 17
- Favorited 6
- Votes 45
- Rating 4.58
Featured Shared Story

I have a friend that's keeping their illness/sickness a secret. Not telling family or friends. Just struggling to deal with it alone. So I'm trying to encourage her and help in any way I can.

Share your story! (1)
20. A Forgotten Life
- By Linda Harrison
- Published by Family Friend Poems August 2014
My mum has been suffering from dementia for 4 years and is now in a residential home. She is 84, and up until the age of 78, she was still working and driving. She doesn't remember her husband or myself and my 2 sisters. In fact, there is no recognition in her memory of the life she had before the dementia. It seems such a cruel disease to wipe out a person's life completely that it inspired me to write this poem. I am sure it will relate to a lot of people experiencing this "loss" of a loved one.

Poem About A Loved One Suffering With Dementia

She resides in a home, sits in a chair,
Nothing to bother her, make her worry or care.
Caretakers to help her wash and dress,
Doing all that they can not to cause her distress.

She resides in a home, sits in a chair,
Nothing to bother her, make her worry or care.
Caretakers to help her wash and dress,
Doing all that they can not to cause her distress.
She smiles and accepts the care that they give,
The meals and the medicines she depends on to live.

Her mind should have memories both good and bad.
Why can't she remember the life she once had?
Not aware of the people who came to see her today
Or what they told her, or how long the stay.

Family and friends she no longer knows.
Just a flicker of remembrance occasionally shows.
The memories are gone, now just a blank, empty space,
Remembering nothing she had before she came to this place.

Is she sad and afraid? She can't let us know
Because these are emotions she's unable to show.
All that's changed is her mind. She is still there,
The same person for whom I always will care.
I'll always remember what she means to me
Because she's my mum, who else could she be?
More...
Go To Poem Page
- Stories 1
- Shares 148
- Favorited 12
- Votes 27
- Rating 4.52
Featured Shared Story

Hello. I can so relate to what you have said. and of course more than what you have said. My Dad got dementia when he was 83. He wouldn't accept that he needed help and I would take weeks...

Read complete story

Share your story! (1)

1 - 20 of 39 Poems

Thank You:

We are deeply grateful to the countless poets who have submitted their work to our website, and to the many readers who have shared their personal stories with us through our "Share Your Story" feature. Without their contributions, Family Friend Poems would not be the warm and welcoming community it is today. Thank you for helping us celebrate the beauty and power of poetry.

Review Stats

Poems (past 30 days)

Published: 26
Pending: 165
Under 10 Ratings: 133

Rate Pending Poems

My Review Stats

Top Reviewer Leaderboard

past 48 hours

Emma R. Sabol
- Poems 33
- Avg 3.52
- Quotations 0
- Avg 0
Jonathan Covington
- Poems 19
- Avg 4.26
- Quotations 0
- Avg 0
Alli Faye Bushong
- Poems 13
- Avg 4.38
- Quotations 0
- Avg 0
Jac Judy A. Campbell
- Poems 7
- Avg 2.14
- Quotations 0
- Avg 0
Raelene J. Elliss
- Poems 5
- Avg 3.80
- Quotations 0
- Avg 0
Marcia A. Newton
- Poems 4
- Avg 2.75
- Quotations 0
- Avg 0
Vioryny
- Poems 1
- Avg 2.00
- Quotations 0
- Avg 0

It's Your Turn

Review New Poems

You Be The Editor

Report Problem

Seasonal Poetry Collections

Sickness Poems

Poems for when a Loved One is Sick

39 Poems About Sickness and Pain

1. Living With Dementia

Dedicated to every family whose parent is suffering with dementia or alzheimer's disease.

2. I'm A Person Too

I'm a CNA in a nursing/rehab center, and love what I do. I've been in the medical field for 14 years and couldn't ask for a more rewarding job. I wrote this poem by putting myself in a patients shoes while writing.

3. In His Hands

This was just how I felt when I found out my dad had cancer, just my thoughts and feelings.

4. Changing Places

5. Living With Dementia

6. Past, Present, Future

I never go to sleep at night without the fear that tomorrow may bring pain. This is life as an Epileptic.

7. Stay Strong

8. Grandpa I Love You

We don't want to let go of our loved ones even when it's time.

9. One Wish

A woman prays to God to heal her sick mother and make her pain and suffering go away.

10. Shell Of A Person I Once Knew

11. Grandma

As her grandmother lays sick, she pleads to her to hold on and live to get better for there are so many whom she is precious to.

12. My Father

A boy watches his father in wallow in sickness. He is torn between his desire for his father to escape the pain, and his desire to continue to see his father live.

13. Last Embers Verse I

This poem is about the pain of watching someone loved so very much just slowly fade away.

14. Suffering Up Close

15. Losing Me...Finding Me

16. Hush-A-By Baby, Don't Cry

This poem is dedicated to my little brother who has been very sick since the day he was born but he knows how to 'keep moving forward.'

17. Dementia

18. Dementia

My beautiful mum passed away on the January 20, 2020. I looked after mum at home for 10 years and then mum was placed in a care facility where she was for 3 years.

19. Can He See Me?

20. A Forgotten Life