What an analogy! As a survivor/patient I dont think during treatments I would have appreciated that comment very much. The doc is right but what a scary and dramatic point of view!

Yes, the doc can write a prescription for your husband to get hydrated several times a week. I dont know if there is an official term for this type of prescription but I always called it a open, standing order. Im interested in hearing how your husband feels after he gets some extra fluids. I always felt so much better after getting hydrated.

Im a huge supporter of patients using the feeding pump. Most common reasons for stomach upset when using formula is the delivery is too fast or the formula is too thick. By slowing down the delivery rate and watering it down slightly it is much easier on the stomach and almost all patients can tolerate it significantly better. If I try doing the push or gravity methods, I have an immediate reaction where my stomach cramps up and/or I feel sick, ready to puke. But with the slower rate from the pump I can tolerate the formula just fine. I kinda think your husband must feel like most of us where everything is completely out of his control. When given an opportunity to make a decision and voice his opinion, patients will often say NO just to feel like they are in control. I did the same thing when I went thru rads and chemo. Plus, most of us are afraid of the unknown. Your husband is already having issues with his intake and Im sure he doesnt want things to get even worse. Unless your husband is able to boost his intake significantly to stop the weight loss, he will continue to feel lousy. At least with added calories every day, he will give his body the fuel it needs to make treatments a little easier.

Hang in there!!! You are doing a great job