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Gavin – I really appreciate you commenting on how your dad’s ascites progressed. Randy has some ascites, periodically, in his ankles and legs and it progresses to his abdomen. We also use diuretics, natural and medircation, to reduce the swelling. You are so right to make the best of the good days and do whatever is necessary to get through the bad days. Thanks for the encouragement. My husband has never had a stent or other invasive procedures (except for the liver biopsy in July 2010). It is so helpful to read of the journey others have traveled to get tips on traveling ours. Blessings, Susan

Dear Marj – You must do waht you need to do for mom’s safety and comfort. Have an open discussion with your siblings and maybe your mom – talking openly about how difficult it is to see someone suffer and that you want to help by contacting the physician for meds, etc. It’s a difficult road and I’m not sure that the patient is always able to make the best decisions about their care. My husband makes most of his own decisions regarding care, but I have always had to make the appointments and take him in for pain medication increases (which happens about once a month). I don’t override his decisions, but I provide as much support as possible. Keep coming here and talking – it really helps. Blessings, Susan

We have tried mint tea and green tea to help with the nausea. We also have nausea meds. Nothing seems to take away the nausea completely, but these 3 things have helped. Blessings, Susan

As a counselor, I can tell you that in counseling you can share your feelings and thoughts in ways that are more difficult in any other setting. You can talk about your pain, your sadness, your anger to someone who is supportive and knowledgable. You have getting by the best you can right now and think about that as being “good enough”. You need to experience your grief in your own way. Keep reaching out to others, get the feelings out of your body, express your thoughts and feelings to release the build up of pressure. Know that people care about you and what you have experienced. Keep coming back here. Blessings, Susan

Dear Chelle – Sometimes the only thing you can do is get the anger, anxiety, pain, out of your body and into the air. You need that release so it doesn’t crush you. We really understand that feeling and the helplessness of not having enough answers or understanding why it had to happen. Han in there with us and we will listen and care about you and your family. Blessings, Susan

Oh Terry – My heart goes out to you. Grief is so hard. You spent so many years caregiving that you not only lost loved ones, you lost the job you had known, too. May peace and blessings be with you as you work through this journey. There will be special rewards for you in Heaven. I know it! Blessings, Susan

My husband was told that if he took chemo it “Might” extend his life 3 to 6 months, but with no expectation of better quality of life. He elected 3 cycles (6 treatments) of Gemzar and at the end of that, there was no improvement for him. He did not suffer ill effects of the chemo, but it did not appear to help either. We do not regret doing it. Blessings, Susan