Hospice is wonderful

[krdisneybound]

I have been reading a few of the threads on this Board and as some have stated, it is hard to start one, if you don't know exactly what to say. But here goes.

My DH is 81 yo and never never been sick. Very fortunate for him. Back in September, '06 he was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer. We didn't know he had a problem.

We started Radiation, 16 treatments. Then we went thru 6 agressive Chemo treatments, at 3 week intervals.

Never one time did he get sick at all or have any side affects, with the exception of him losing his beautiful white hair.

I, myself, have been very sick and he has taken good care of me for 3 years now with my illness of having Lupus and several surgeries. This past Oct. and Nov. I went thru 2 more surgeries and am now on an abdominal wound Vac to help promote healing. I have a home health nurse that comes to me 4times a week also.

Just five days ago he began to show signs of weakness and being very sick and fell out of bed 3 times and I had to call an ambulance. On the 3rd time he was admitted 'cause we said he had chest pains.

We have now found out that the cancer is in his bones and most probably in his brain. He is very confused and doesn't know where he is most of the time

He was in the hospital 5 days and then I brought him home with trying to get home health care.

I contacted HOSPICE in our area and they were out at our house w/in 2 hours and I found out that they are completely taking over his care.

There will be 3 nurses on 8 hour shifts 24/7. They will remove the hospital bed we now have and bring in their own equipment.

Our cancer Dr. will still "follow" but HOSPICE will be the first care taker.

What is even better is that Medicare will pay for everything 100% and not even a penny will have to be paid by us.


I know I left some important details out that I wanted to say, but maybe they will come later, as I remember them.

Many important decisions to be made shortly and I hope I am ready to handle everything the right way.

Thank you for reading this, as I felt it would be seen by someone.

 

[LVSWL]

You are in good hands. Hospice is truly a godsend. You and your husband and family are in my prayers.

 

[rie'smom]

Bless you hearts! Please know that you have my prayers and also my admiration. I hope that if I ever have to face medical problems both personally and with my hubby that I have the strength and grace that you do.

 

[krdisneybound]

more praise for HOSPICE

WELL - let me tell you something. This HOSPICE is absolutely wonderful, wonderful, wonderful.

The first nurse was here from 3 pm yesterday until 8 this morning. He is still here ith the take over nurse. He never slept, sat right next to him all night. I got up twice and came out into the living room and there he was still doing it.

At 7 am he had Harry up, bathed him, changed his bed and cleaned everything up. He handles him like an angel. In one lift like it is nothing.

I am truly amazed and pleased.

I slept two good periods and it felt so good.

What a blessing-------- like from heaven - Harry is alert and has a little color in his cheeks.

 

[JunieJay]

I'm keeping you and your DH in my prayers. I'm so glad hospice is taking good care of him.

 

[Mackey Mouse]

Wow......first I am so happy that Harry had some color in his cheeks.. God bless him and what can I say about Hospice, they are incredible people who truly care. I am so glad they are helping you. I have you both in my prayers.. Big hugs to you both.

 

[krdisneybound]

Thanks to all for their words of encouragement.

I even got to run some errands today and get things I haven't been able to all week.

I just don't have the words for explaining all the good things right now

 

[TomB'sWidow]

I agree with you on hospice We only had them for a week but they were terrific.My Dh was the same never sick and then was diagnosed with lung cancer he was only 43yrs old he was gone within 8months. I am hoping and praying that you have more time with your hubby Please keep us posted

 

[rlduvall]

My 63 year old dear mother was diagnosed with small cell extensive lung cancer on February 24, 2006 (I will never forget the date). Those of you who have lost loved ones from lung cancer know what an incredible blessing it is from God that she is still here with us (over a year later) and reasonably healthy - even though still bald - lol. Her initial chemo went great and she was in remission quickly, but it also came back within a few weeks. Wow!!

At the moment, she is doing chemo 1x every 3 weeks and is doing exceptional. (Radiation was horrible and did more harm than good)

We have been contacted by Hospice, and while at this time it is not needed, we know they will come in as soon as we need them. I feel so much better reading these wonderful comments about them.

The lose of control during a loved one's terminal illness is incredible.

 

[Lizzy2]

My BFF since we were 19y.old has stage IV lung cancer. She is only 37 now. We are grateful for her being here but she is suffering. It is very hard. I'm praying for you and your DDad. Bless you-

 

[CDSTapisRouge]

Wanted to give you and your family more hugs. I know this must be a hard time.

My step mother passed away a few months ago and all my father kept saying was how wonderful Hospice was. Even in her eulouge he praised the magnificent people of the local hospice. He has told me that he hopes that I am never in the situation to need them, but...if I do ever need them for anything CALL as they are truly amazing people who make the situation so much more bareable. Not only are they there for the patient in care, but for the family and friends.

I am thinkging of your family and wish you well. You are in good... NO GREAT hands with hospice at your side.

 

[rhiannonwales]

Thanks for sharing your story about hospice. My mom was diagnosed 8 months ago with non small cell adenocarcinoma.She was supposed to have surgery but they cancelled last minute for fear she wouldnt make it.Now we are looking at chemo and radiation and my sister and i have been discussing hospice if it is required.It helps me to know of all the wonderful experiences.

ETA: I forgot to say that you and yours will be in my thoguhts as well. HUGS

 

[krdisneybound]

It is so wonderful to have a support group and talk to each other about our experiences.

Thanks to everyone and a big hug to all

 

[krdisneybound]

Last evening at 9:47 pm my DH passed away at our home. I was holding him until he took his last five breaths. He doesn't have anymore pain and he knew that he was well taken care of.

Hospice came over immeditely and started arranging everything for me.

We will be making all the arrangements today with the funeral home. It all happens so quickly with so many decisions to be made.

Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers

 

[Regina]

Oh Kay, I am so sorry to hear that Harry has passed away. He was a true gentleman and we're privileged to have met him. Gary and I send our condolences.

 

[safetymom]

Kay, I am so sorry to hear about your husbands passing. I will keep you both in my prayers. Please be kind to yourself. Sending hugs.

As the days pass I hope you continue to post here. Talking about it really does help.

 

[KathyTX]

Kay, I am so very sorry. Harry was very lucky to have such a loving, caring wife and partner all these years.

Many prayers and hugs for you.

 

[mommasita]

I am so sorry to hear this...May god give you the strength you need

 

[rhiannonwales]

Kay,
I'm very sorry for your loss. You and yours will be in my thoughts and prayers. I'm glad that hospice was there when you needed it.

 

[rlduvall]

Please accept this from me: