I think the poet was acknowledging the elephant in the room. The "D's" Death and Dying, and Grief and Loss. We think of grief as a reaction to a death. But there is another grief that comes from loss while someone is still living. It is natural to grieve the death of a loved one before, during, and after the actual time of their passing. The process of accepting the unacceptable is what grieving is all about. The author expressed a peace with death and reflection, leading to deeper communication and stronger relationships with those going through the loss. The poet is telling a story that over time, with terminal illnesses must adjust to many losses, the loss of dignity, mobility, or the loss of a sense of worth (all depending on what disability