I freeze.
Two thoughts fight to win
a battle in my brain—
he’s naked
he needs help.
Unfreeze.
Grab a towel.
His body has become so thin.
Ribs sunken in.
Not like the dad I’ve known.
Dizzy, stars fall in front of my eyes,
he manages a weak thank you,
I wrap him in the towel.
Hunching over him,
my feet wet,
I see his skeletal body.
Pause.
A deep breath in,
I pull him up.