Clara Elizabeth Caroline 1906–1999 by Kay Medway

A large tree in the middle of green woodland. Large white text reads: Clara Elizabeth Caroline 1906-1999. Smaller text reads: Discussing disabled characters in fairy tales and folklore.

 Your voice was an iced fruit apple slice to us, Shared while seated outside every summer, Though you never travelled in any season. Your laugh was a comedy catchphrase.
You were the pink Marks & Spencer meringue nests, Crystal-cut glasses of cherryade, and amethyst birthstones on bracelets. You were the bag, laden with photographs, postcards, Prayers, and magazine tips for houses.
The school I confided in you about, And the certificate I earned from there— You were the imagining of it framed on hospital walls.
You were the marble-handled, soft-bristled hairbrush, The Revlon make-up, the hot drinks before bedtime, Silky blouses, blazers, and slippers.
You were the grandma we prayed for a miracle for, As we willed you to get well.
Now you are the neat, grassy path I know by heart And tread with utmost care; The earrings of your sister we must arrange to repair, The door ajar at a certain moment, The good luck wish, the tiniest horseshoe, And rosary beads we last left you with.

Poem after 'John' by Maggie O'Dwyer

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About the author:
​Kay Medway works full-time in a library. ​Kay writes poetry in her free time and had a poem for children in The Dirigible Balloon's Chasing Clouds anthology to raise funds for The National Literacy Trust.