Last week it became apparent that the things she was doing were not keeping the cancer at bay. She went into the doctor to assess exactly where things were and develop another treatment plan that might include some chemo. After reviewing the tests and talking with her doctor she discovered that the cancer had spread quite extensively throughout her body. She looked directly at her oncologist, who has provided all the expertise as well as love and support one could ever hope to have from a doctor, and raised her hands and said, "Okay, I call uncle." They discussed plans to help her be comfortable for the remaining time she had--the doctor thought she had likely somewhere between 3 weeks and 3 months. Almost from that moment it was clear that she was very at peace, that it was time to go home.
Over the next 4 days, her health declined so rapidly it's taken our breath away. By Saturday the nurse said she thought my mom had only 24-48 hours. Our family was able to gather around her bed on Saturday night and share some sweet exchanges. We held her hand and she shared how much she loved each one of us and asked us to be true--because in the end all we have are each other and our covenants.
Since that time, her decline has slowed and the nurse has said she may have a little more time. Although she's quite weak and resting a lot, she hasn't lost her sense of humor. The other night Kristen offered her a piece of chocolate. She looked like she was enjoying it so much Kristen offered her another one. She said, "Well, I'm going to to dogs anyway, I might as well go up in flames!" After all her healthy eating it's been delightful to watch her relish some of the good foods of life. The other night she asked for some ice cream. She polished off some of her own bowl AND all of my Dad's. :)
We've all been able to enjoy a little time sitting with her each day. She hasn't been up to lots of talking, but yesterday we brought baby Jordan in to sit next to her. He was babbling, and my mom babbled back. He gave her a huge smile. She rested smiling for several minutes.
She seems to feel a lot of peace about going. Although it's hard to imagine life without her, we have felt a lot of peace about her going as well.
I'm sure my dad has probably already told you this story, but the last day of my mom's life, she said to me, "I really want to eat something bad for me!!" We got her a small fry and Coke from McDonalds. :) I am SO glad that your mom is eating her fill of ice cream and chocolate!!!!
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