Hello Brenda,
So sorry you had to find this site. Before I go on, may I suggest that you post something in the Introduction section so that everyone can see your post and you can get the most information available to any of your questions.
My mother was 64 when diagnosed also — but don’t jump to any harsh conclusions until you’ve spoken to the doctors and gotten some concrete information. You’ll see as you look through the posts that this terrible disease is different for each individual, which is one of the reasons it can be difficult to predict what will happen, and why it’s important to get a second opinion.
As for the fluid retention, that is common and sometimes it’s helped by diuretics and/or repeated drainage. Sometimes not. My mother liked to say she was having triplets, and we even bought her maternity clothes.
There are wonderful knowledgeable people on this board who can answer any questions you may have, and also just people who understand who will listen to you if you need to vent.
My heart goes out to you and I wish the best for you and your mom,
Joyce