An old lady, alone, hard of hearing and sight ...
Lies awkwardly in her hall where she fell.
She is cold, lying in a wet nightdress, embarrassed and confused.
Frightened, rheumy eyes and grasping fingers.
We hoist her, creaking, upright.
And help her to her bathroom.
Reveal her sallow folds, and change her.
Give dignity and privacy where we can.
We shout – we have to.
And repeat, repeat.
She cries over her soiled carpet as we help her back into bed.
We tuck her in.
Like a baby.
Like the baby she once was.
With peachy, pink bottom and chubby legs,
And eager, sparkling eyes.