Mom spoke to the ENT (over the phone). He called and finally reached her after several attempted calls were missed.
He explained the reasons why she is having problems drinking fluids such as soda, water and coffee coming up and out he nose. This is really getting frustrating for her (especially with her coffee!!!). The soft pallet tumor is interfering with the nasal passages. He mentioned that she could go see a surgeon he could recommend but that would involve all the same things she already has refused.
She then asked him how much longer does she have. His answer was he didn't know (no surprise).
Both the nurse and hospice caregiver were there today. The nurse called me after and said mom asked the caregiver how quickly she could arrange and get full time care (staying in her apartment).
In addition, mom finally told her downstairs neighbor about the cancer.
I believe mom sees her time living on her own soon coming to an end.
Over the last few weeks, the following changes in her condition have been noted:
1) Weaker leg strength. Difficulty getting in and out of the tub. I am concerned about this but she does have 3 grab bars and a sturdy special seat that stays in the tub (she sits in the chair while taking her bath/shower. I had also installed a 7 foot hose shower head when she moved in 5 years ago.
2) Liquids (water, soda, coffee, milk) come out her nose at almost every sip now. Milk shakes seem to not come back up. This is really starting to get to her.
On a personal note, I came home on Friday from work totally exhausted and feeling horrible. I ended up having the flu and was in bed for 4 straight days. Slamming headache, fever and general body ache. The sad part this was exactly what I needed it!!! No work stress. No mom stress. No kids stress. My family was wonderful... They brought me tea and toast. Glasses of ice water etc (which I lived on along with Nyquil and Sinus meds). I slept... Watched On demand (Sapranos season 5).
Hum... Think I could bottle up this illness again when the Masters golf comes on next month?
