does ascites mean the end?

[finkaz]

my mum has been without chemo for approx 3 months due to surgery and then an infection.  Her stomach has bloated with fluid and 1 of her lungs has fluid on it, she said to her nurse "im not getting any better am i" and the nurse didnt reply.  Surely ascites doesnt mean the end? she had this before and the chemo cleared it.  she is extremely depressed and has convinced herself that she isnt going to get any better. I have no idea what to say to her i am always optimistic but just cant get her to be the same.  any suggestions?

[RavenLady]

Hi Finkaz,  I can't answer your question on the ascites but hoping a 1% Cyster will be by to do so.  Your instincts are good in that you recognise that although your Moms depression is tottally understandable, it doesn't help her in fighting this beast!  You are already donng the best thing by remaining optimistic yourself!  Acknowledge your Moms feelings but encourage her not to give up!  Your Mom is very fortunate to have a daughter like you but you have a tough job.  Drop in any time, we are here to listen Finkaz!  MV

[kaz39]

hi finkaz, so sorry your mum is feeling so very down, i know how you are feeling as my mum is very down at the moment, she just doesnt seem the same and cries a lot more, which is totally understandable with what they are going through and have been through, but it is so hard for us to see our mums like this especially as you feel so helpless and useless as well. i do hope your mum and my mum start to feel much better soon, will be thinking about you both x