TommieSue

Vigilante, you responded to message I posted back in January about my mom, she has gallbladder cancer. By the time you responded my mom had seen 3 oncologists all who gave her no hope. She is a very strong person, with a very strong faith and is coping with her leaving this world. We started hospice about a month ago, her pain is under control, and she sleeps most of the time now. She has seen 2 drs. from Toledo and one in Trenton at this point, all of whom could only give her a 10-15% chance of any treatment prolonging her life. She felt those odds weren't worth the cost, and has chosen to forego any such treatments. But my father is starting to have doubts that we haven't tried enough. He wants to take her to U of M and get another opinion. She is not happy about this, she is agreeing only for his sake, but does not want to. I think she has been preparing herself, letting go of this world and preparing for her death, and it was a shock to her. She hurts so bad everytime she has to get in the car for anything, and doesnt want any more tests or pain. I know you listed different meds for her to try, but realistically, what are the effects and success rates?? Do you think they have anything at this point that would help her. I honestly have seen such a decline in her in the past 2 weeks that I believe she's probably nearer to death than my father thinks. I don't know if you can help me at all, I just feel so torn, in the middle. Trying to protect her and trying to ease his conscience. Do you have any suggestions for a dr. and would it possible to do a phone consultation?? I hate to drive her all the way up there and cause her so much pain, if it's useless at this point. Can I ask you another question?? How do you know so much about cancer & treatment?? This is a wonderful thing you do, taking time to offer your help to all these people!! Thank you. Tommie