A world within

She lives there 
A world within her 
Thoughts tumbled 
Words mumbled
Memories jumbled
Mind numbed
By illness; confounded
Asked her a question
She doesn't remember
Asked her preference
She doesn't care
Her body is struggling
Fighting to cope
Her bones are showing
Her breathing's slowing
Movement is becoming rare
I often wonder
What goes on in her head
I imagine her memories
Flashing like a movie reel
Lit up from inside
She sees us; knows us
But cannot confide
Her words are trapped inside
But she smiles and utters
A few words occasionally
Simple to see her; dear love
Once strong and vital
Once so completely able
She sits now at the table
Waiting for her meals
She eats like a little sparrow
Her cheeks are pale; hollow
But I know my dear Mum
Is still there; trapped inside