Poem: Touch
© Roseanne Lamoreaux, RN, BSN | Hemophilia Center
Artwork: Outstretched
© Emma Lamoreaux | Daughter of Roseanne Lamoreaux, RN, BSN
A baby placed on its mother’s chest immediately after delivery
A meaningless brush against an arm or leg in a noisy, crowded subway
A clap of enthusiastic applause for a performer after a grueling, physical show
An outstretched hand offering assistance to a person who has just fallen
The simple act of aiding someone to change positions in their bed after surgery
The rub of a thumb, while hand in hand, to provide unspoken comfort
Be it slight, like a warm wisp of fresh air
or hard, like a cold, reprimanding slap
Its value worth more than words, often underestimated
It can make sadness seem a little less sadder
Happiness appear just a bit brighter
Feeling of pride run just a little deeper
All while easing one’s loneliness or fears of feeling vulnerable
It’s how humans are naturally taught from birth to show their emotions
A simple act without words, which reveals inner feelings
From body to body, it feels as if it’s the only real thing in the world