Hi,
I live in Australia and am 63 years old. My myelofibrosis is a secondary condition. In July of 1983 I was diagnosed with Polycythaemia Rubra Vera and told my life span was very limited. As you can see, I am still here and confounding the doctors. My blood disease progressed to Myelofibrosis 3 years ago and there is nothing more they can do for me. My spleen is greatly enlarged and so is my liver. I did have radiation treatment in December 2004/January 2005 and it did shrink the spleen a little but it has all now come back in full force. I think, like in your case, it is harder on my children (I have 5) and grandchildren (I have 14). The biggest help is a positive attitude and a smile. It is not the most comfortable disease under the sun, but I think of people who are worse off than I am when things are really bad. Keep your chin up and take advantage of each day you have with your Mum. It really makes you appreciate every moment so much more. Good luck.
Madelon