Starting Hospice

Mieke here...

Things have taken another turn with mom's condition. She has had some very difficult days of extreme discomfort and we are now proceeding with the next steps in her care.


Mom and Dad went to the oncologist today and it was decided that they will no longer administer chemo of any kind. There was evidence of growth of tumors in the neck area and her CA125 count was over 1,000...much elevated from the last count. With all of these factors, it was clear that it would be unwise to continue chemotherapy and from here on out treat the severe pain mom is experiencing right now. With the question of "What would be a reasonable expectation for the time left with Deb?" we received a stark answer of not many weeks. We are hoping that after meeting with Hospice tonight, we can start to make her feel more comfortable with some different pain treatments. It is becoming evident that with mom's ileostomy, she is not experiencing relief from the strong pain meds because they are not absorbing into her intestines. We will find out more when we talk with Hospice tonight.

We are quite unsure about what it will look like as mom's condition becomes more intensive, but we do think there will be a point soon when we could use some help. I have set up a site for people to sign up to bring meals and sign up to stay with her through the night. If more needs arise, I will post them to the calendar. Right now, mom is not able to read messages on her phone or email, but if you send them to her I can try to relay the message. My number- 616-566-8545
Please email me at miekemutschler@gmail.com if you would like me to add you to this site so you can sign up for giving care. You can also click this link and request to be a member.

https://my.lotsahelpinghands.com/community/debhoksbergen/home

Thank you for your prayers. They are needed especially now for comfort for mom and for us as we prepare for this difficult time.

-Mieke (with help from Stan)