An update on my sister’s cancer journey

[Blankity Blank]

Unfortunately, the news is not good.

A week ago Denise had her third chemo treatment and the effect was devastating. Within 24 hours her breathing was so compromised it was necessary to hospitalize her. Over the past week doctors have gone from trying to determine the exact cause of the respiratory dysfunction to simply restoring enough functionality so that she can be released to go home for hospice care.

We are on the threshold of that goal, and the necessary hospital and caretaking equipment will be delivered today. I will be taking leave from work to serve as her day to day caretaker. The prognosis for her time in hospice care is unclear, but six months seems to be the outer limit.

Since neither of us will be working, we will still be accepting GoFundMe donations to bridge the gap left by what assistance that may be available through Social Servives.

Words fail to express the depth of our gratitude for the kindness and generosity shown by the MRF community.

[CJsNvrUrly]

I'm so sorry. We're here for you.

[NewtonMP2100]

.....sorry to hear.....chin up....

[Pam]

So very sorry for your sister, you, and your family.

[lost in space]

Sorry to hear that, Blankety. Take care of yourself too.

[Rick-o]

Dang it!! I was hoping you had more positive news about your sister.

[mrbigstuff]

Definitely felt a lump in the throat reading that. My sincere condolences.

[vision63]

I wish we could just make her better. i pray that she gets better.

[Blankity Blank]

Thank you everybody for your kindness.

Denise and I had a conversation yesterday about this being as much, if not more, about release not loss, the good times shared, the rough patches endured together, and how she will always be a part of me, making me a better person.

The pain won’t disappear, but we’re finding a place in the shade where, ironically, the dark is lessened by both light and warmth.

[Bill in NC]

You will find Hospice a wonderful service.

They have been invaluable for a close relative for whom I am caregiver who was diagnosed with terminal cancer just last autumn.