Back in March, 2006 my mother was diagnosed with oral cancer T4. The tumors are located in multiple places including;
- Roof of her mouth - Right jaw bone (at the jaw joint) - Two masses on her left lung (assumed tumors) - Right side of neck
My mother, who is now 71, chose to do nothing.
This decision was based on choosing quality of life versus extending her life. She continues to live alone in her apartment (my dad passed away several years ago) . She still drives to the local food store and church 3 or 4 times a week.
Its been 9 months and counting... Since she refused even a biopsy procedure, we aren't positive what type of cancer cell she has.
Her symptoms have gotten progressively worse. At this point, she has increasing pain in her right ear, cannot chew food with much success because her right jaw hurts. In addition, when she drinks fluids, some of the fluid comes out her nose when she attempts to swallow.
Her weight is starting to drop... Prior to the cancer, she was 97 pounds (height is 4' 10").
She is now down to 88 pounds.
Is there anyone out here that knows someone who went down this same path? Most of the patients the visiting nurse sees have chosen to go for treatments. My mom is not sure what is coming next... The end is certainly much closer than the beginning (9 months ago).
