I figured that I would give you an update on my mom's condition. Its been almost 11 months since she was diagnosed.
The visiting nurse came on Thursday and contacted my sister (the doctor). She told my sister that mom's pain has increased enough that she is recommending she take two vicodins (5 mg) every 4 hours. Then, in between, she should take the Motrin. The nurse also told my sister that she believes that the time for 24X7 care is rapidly approaching.
On Friday, I took the day off and spent it with her. We talked extensively about her current condition.
The tumors have grown in size as follows:
The tumor near her right ear is pushing her ear out away from the side of her head. This same tumor is pushing its way down the side of her face (just in front of her ear).
A second tumor (or just a tentacle of the ear tumor) is pushing its way down from just under her right eye down to the side of her mouth.
Yet another tumor (or tentacle) is firmly attached to her right jaw hinge and is significantly impeding her ability to chew.
Her food intake is now 100% soft foods and soups. Although, she still is able to eat her Bassetts Vanilla butterscotch ice cream!!!
To recap the current impact of the cancer:
1) Ear pain 2) Difficulty chewing 3) Wakes up every morning with slobber on her pillow case. 4) Complains that she hears an echo when she ever she talks.
