It's going to be OK
That's what everyone said
Nothing to worry about it'll be fine
Quiet talks on the front porch

New words:
biopsy oncologist malignancy

Sneaking cigarettes by the fireplace
Alone at home. Always alone
It wasn't going to be long
She'll be home in a week or two
She'll be home, soon

New words:
chemotherapy valium radiation

One last holiday at home
Back to normal, for a bit
School morning; Screaming in the bathroom
No matter the past, He's the one she calls to.
Get on the bus, go to school, it'll be ok

New words:
hospice metastasize stroke

Still thought she'd be home
Still thought she'd get better
Because when you're 13
And your mother is dying
you'll believe anything

New words:
kaddish shiva funeral

Off the bus. House is full.
In the hall with my Dad
You're mother passed this morning I'm sorry
He turned, walked back down the hall