My favorite patient is dying,

But how do I tell her that?

How do I tell her she has six months?

Why do I have to be the bearer of bad news?

I know I’ve done this a thousand times,

But I can’t bring myself to do it right now.

“Can I take a minute?” I ask my supervisor

He sees my troubled expression on my face

He puts a hand on my shoulder, but I shrug.

Before he can answer, I go into the restroom

As soon as I hit the door, the tears fall

And I start crying uncontrollably.