Jackie, Im sorry I missed your post! Your mother has been thru so much. You and the rest of the family have as well. Im sure everyone must be absolutely exhausted.

If there is no further treatment being done, and the doctors have said her days are limited has hospice been called? They can help with many things. Ive heard rave reviews at the support and guidance they provide. I also have heard frequently families wait too long to call and should call them well in advance.

The carotid rupture you asked about usually happens inpatients who have received a full round (or even more rounds) of radiation. I cant remember anyone without radiation that Ive heard of this happening to. Since your mother only had 1 dose of rads, its unlikely this small amount will play a part in causing a carotid rupture.

This may sound ridiculous to you so please forgive me if it is. Have you obtained a second opinion from a different treatment center, preferably a Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC)?

Best wishes with everything!