Her scream jerked us to our feet.
I found her where she lay,
Sprawled at the stairs foot,
Nightdress up to her shoulders,
Blood down to her eyes.

The ambulance took twenty
Minutes. I stood waiting
Outside, my sleeve in my mouth,
Not caring to hide my tears
From the dark sky.

Her cries went unheeded by the
Doctor, young enough like me,
They spun to the
Radio. I bought Dad's coffee.

Four cups later, he took out
The prayers; shaking by her
Bed, beads slipping through
His fingers.

Two arms broken, strangers shake
Their heads. Very lucky, they say.
No more stairs for Mom. I have
Her room now. To keep me
Company, I have her screams.