Paula
i cant speak highly enough of hospice care.In the Uk we have two types of hospice care.The first is home care provided by the community palliative care team,and the second is actual inpatient care when the time is drawing close.I am a qualified nurse ,but the one thing i was terrified of was robin dying at home.When the palliative care consultant came to the house,it was one of the first things he asked me about,and i told him when robins time was close i would prefer him to be in the hospice.The main object of palliative and hospice care is pain management,the most important to me was the total family support they provide.The nurses never came in to our house to see robin and see to his physical needs,without taking me into the kitchen and asking how i was coping/sleeping/feeling etc.When Rob was admitted to the hospice to get his pain managed ,it was like being wrapped in a great big warm blanket,of love and care.Rob loved the place and the people who cared for him,and his only real fear was being sent home again which he never was.They saw to his every need,physical,mental and emotional and the team of Doctors,Nurses,alternative therapists,counsellors and chaplins,were dedicated and committed to all our family.Rob had massages,aromatherapy,rakhi,counselling sessions when he was in the mood,and clear concise information given to him at all times.

They were wonderful both during his last weeks,and after he had ,gone,offering bereavement counselling for up to two years for myself ,his daughter and his brother.

Jims tiredness may be caused by medication,but could also be because his body is worn down with the constant fight against the onslaught of the disease ,a good palliative care specialist will explain the mechanics of losing the battle,and the manifestations it will display,so my advice is get in touch with some one who can explain it all too you.

i am please you Pm'd me and hope i can answer your questions,and help you through the next few weeks/months.

much love liz