carol

I’ve been searching this board for a few weeks now trying to figure out what is going on with my Mom too, as she has severe edema which also started in her feet and have moved up her body. My mother was diagnosed in July 2006, did Chemo (Gemzar) until mid-December and all of sudden deteriorated very quickly. The swelling did not come severe until December and up until that point she was handling chemo well and doing ok. She now is almost completely bed-ridden as she doesn’t have the strength to pick her heavy body up, and she sleeps constantly. It’s a horrible experience watching this happen but I thank God everyday she is not in pain. Of course, the person that I am needs to know everything including how she much longer and how will she pass. Her doctor (who is great) says it won’t be much longer, but couldn’t be specific as to days, weeks, etc. and said she may pass away for many reasons. He did say she will eat/drink less and less, which is happening. I need to get it in my head too that these facts are not important and cherish every moment RIGHT NOW and don’t dwell on the end. Easier said than done. I feel I need to be prepared. Anyway, I don’t know if I was much help, but I wish you many more special moments with your mom and I understand where you are coming from.