My mother-in-law was diagnosed Nov 11 with Stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer. I have been the primary caregiver since that time. (I had an Aunt pass in May of 2005 of lung cancer so I am a little knowledgeable about lung cancer). My mother-in-laws cancer has spread to various other parts (thoracic & lumbar spine, liver, frontal lobes of head, pelvic region, etc). She was undergoing radiation for her spine & pelvic areas due to complications. We were to start chemo afterwards. Unfortunateky the cancer has gotten the best of her...the tumors in her liver have grown tremendously. She has now become so weak the most she is able to do is stand and pivot, her appetite is poor but she is still getting some fluids down, she has jaundice & her legs are swollen to twice their size, she is developing lil blisters on her legs (where the fluid is trying to escape due to the liver non-function). I am wondering what to expect. I know that eventually she will lose coherency. I am trying to prepare myself for the new symptoms which will occur. We have now called hospice in and they stopped by on Monday (aid & RN). But it is really difficult to get information, especially beings my mother-in-law is still really in a state of denial. Any expectaions or information anyone can give would be greatly appreciated as our time is limited at this point.
Thanks to all who are on this discussion thread,
Sheila
H hold
O onto
P positive
E energy