I have known you for a long time.

14 years.

We grew up together.

I was the beauty queen and you were the tomboy,

An unstoppable duo.

I grew over the years... but you didn't.

Suddenly I was towering over you

And with my long legs I could beat you in races.

I went from calling you auntie,

To sister, 

To baby.

And now you're old.

And I'm scared. 

Every step you struggle with, my heart skips a beat.

Every cough sends a burst of adrenaline racing through my veins.

And I know you don't have long.

Another year, maybe two.

Sometimes I wish it would just happen already,

Before I go off to college in some far away state.

I don't want you to die alone.

I want to be there when they stick the needle in your veins,

When the air leaves your lungs on that cold, metallic vets table,

And you can finally sleep.