I could have done more

I should have done more

As the image of patients remains in my head

Image of patients attached to IV poles as they shuffle down the transplant floor

I could have done more

I should have done more

As the image of my mom remains in my head

Images of her weakened and frail

Images of her confined to her bed

I could have done more 

I should have done more 

As the image of doctors and nurses running down the hall

Images of another patient 

With fright in their eyes

frantically pleading for help

Images of them taking a fall

I could have done more 

I should have done more 

Perhaps I was too young 

Consumed with my own fears

A unit filled with clinging life

A unit filled with death, sobs and uncontrollable tears

I could have done more 

I should have done more 

I now understand 

My mom made it out, others not so much 

It could have been a card, a smile

It could have been a simple touch of the hand

It’s been a few years 

Since I visited this place 

The images will always remain in the back of my mind

I’m older now and better know what it means to be kind

I can do more

I should do more

I will do more