Hospice

[Janet]

I don't know a whole lot about Hospice, but Mom's kidney Dr. thinks it's time. For the last two days, Mom's blood pressure has not been good. Most of the time it reads at 70 or 80 something over 40 or 50 something. She sleeps or naps alot.

Her ankles are swollen very bad and the dialysis isn't getting much fluid off. The Dr. told her she wasn't going to get better and even though most of the time she's in denial, she did say to me "I guess I'm going to die". I told her "not today".

A person from Hospice called and will be here on Tuesday morning to give us whatever information we'll need. Not real sure what to expect, but I'll know soon enough I guess.

I've been feeling sick to my stomach ever since leaving the Dr's office.

[gja1000]

Yes, of course, you are sick to your stomach and feeling terrible. Your mom is not doing well and may not get better. But Hospice can help, it really can. And Hospice does not necessarily mean the end is near, but it does mean they can help her be more comfortable during this difficult time.

[DianaB]

That's reassuring, Gayle. I'm sure that hospice will work with your doctor to help get your Mom better. Maybe she'll listen to them better than she has you and your brothers. Can't the doctor give her something to help get the fluid off besides just using the dialysis?

[Janet]

She does take Lasix twice a day. She can't walk far now and seems to be going downhill much faster. She says she feels fine, but she doesn't and I can tell. Besides her feet being swollen, her cheeks are swollen too. No one is really sure why.

[judy]

I can understand the way you feel, Janet. I have been there. Hospice care is what she needs. It will be good to see how well she will be taken care of, and take that off of your shoulders. Then you can spend time with her with less stress on you.

Prayers for you and Mom, Janet.

[Janet]

Thanks everyone...this may be a dumb question, but does Hospice cost? Where do I find out? I was hoping to get an idea before they come o Tuesday morning.