Pancreatic Cancer
My mom is 90yrs old. On June 29, 2014 she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She had 2 stent procedures by Sept 7, 2014 to reduce her jaundice. It is now Dec 2014 and I am seeking signs of what to expect as she prepares to leave this world. She is not eating anymore and only drinks a little. She has always been a very strong person. Even now she still refuses to take pain medicine when she needs it.
She struggles to swallow the tablet as I fear it causes her pain to swallow but she won't admit it. She is a very strong person of faith as well. She keeps praying that God is in control and reminding Him she is ready whenever He is. She sleeps a lot now but I see the pain on her face. She has an ileostomy bag so I wonder if pain suppositories will work. What are some signs outside of low BP, slowed respiration, and little fluid output? I check on her several times in the night. I want to be there for her when she goes.
I feel very alone sometimes because I have to be the strong one in my family. I appreciate all who have shared their stories before. They have helped me on nights when I can't sleep wondering what to expect.
Any suggestions to make her comfortable is appreciated.
Concerned daughter
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My father died at the age of 74 from pancreatic cancer. Unfortunately it wasn't diagnosed until it had spread to his liver and he died about 5 months after he started showing symptoms. My mother is 92 and she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer 3 months ago. She had jaundice and a stent was put in. Since then she has been fine, eating well and having lots of energy. She is having a repeat CT scan in a for weeks to see if the mass has grown. When she received the original diagnosis the oncologist said that she has 9-12 months to live and her primary care doctor said that she has 6 "good" months. Since this was 3 months ago, it would be now 6-9 months and 3 good months. Seeing how healthy she is, it's hard to believe that she has such little time left. What signs or symptoms should I be watching for? Is there anything I can do?
April 24, 2015 - 6:59amThis Comment
I'm so sorry about your mom. I know the pain.
My beloved dad was diagnosed with Pancreatic cancer december 2011. It was discovered through metastasis in liver. He didn't want any chemo treatments etc. 3 1/2 weeks later he feel asleep in death.
The last 3 days he slept a lot. He was comfortable. Laying on a special airfilled mattress to help him breath comfortably. Morphine. Surrounded by family. Holding his hand, sitting next to him talking positive memories, touching face. Though he didn't have the strength to respond much we knew he could hear us. I'm sure our voices comforted him.
Talk with her. Talk about your good times. Things you appreciate about her. Why she's a good mom. That you're gonna be okay. Sing, read to her.
3 yrs has gone by and I miss dad much. Miss our chats on Skype and phone. Miss his sweet messages on my voice mail.
Though the pain is still present, it doesn't cut as deep. I do tear up as I think of him, but I also smile when I remember the good stuff.
For me, right now, we can't talk because it's like he's on a trip and has no cellphone connection.
I take great comfort in that he's not suffering and that I have the hope of seeing him soon. Not in a distant place. Right here, on earth. Smiling, whistling, walking up and embracing me. A hope that he too expressed before he died.
This hope is, for me, absolute, because it's promised by our awesome Creator. The God who cannot lie.
Eccl 9:10. Acts 24:15. Psalm 37:29. Isa 33:24. Rev 21:4.
I pray God's peace settle over you and within you. (Php 4:6,7)
With sincere love, E ♥
December 23, 2014 - 11:25pmThis Comment
Hello Anonymous,
Welcome to the EmpowHER and thank you for seeking the support of our community.
Consider reaching out to Hospice for help.
You might find some help from members who have commented on this ASK: "end of life signals for pancreatic cancer" https://www.empowher.com/community/ask/end-life-signals-pancreatic-cance...
Low urinary output, slow respiratory rate, low blood pressure, and drifting in and out of consciousness are some signs of impending death.
My prayers are with you,
December 18, 2014 - 11:11amMaryann
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