My Mommy is Sick

A poem for children coping with a parent who has a chronic illness.

My mommy is sick even though she looks well.

But my daddy, my brother, and I can tell.

She used to love to give us all huggles.

That’s what she calls it when she hugs and she cuddles.

Now hugging hurts her, so I need to take care.

We give long-distance hugs, so I don’t cause a flare.

She can’t pick me up like she used to do.

Or button my clothes or lace up my …