How do we know when the end is near?

[Tinker35]

My kids are at the ER tonight with their dad (my ex). He has been a severe alcoholic for 20+ years and was diagnosed 15 months ago with Alcoholic Hepatitis and Cirrosis of the liver. He was told then that if he quit drinking, he had approx 2 years to live. He continued to drink heavily until 3 days ago, when he became too sick to drink. He has lost 40+ pounds in the past 6 months, is vomiting blood and has bloody diarrhea now. His skin is bright red from his neck up, his legs are very pale and tonight his feet are actually black. He is having extreme abdominal pain and he is shaking badly. His BP is very high and his pulse is 125+. The ER doctors are running blood tests and a CT scan now. They suspect "alcoholic pancreatitis" but are not explaining anything. The kids called me from the hospital, asking me to do internet research. They need some definite answers. We all know he is dying, but we have no idea if he is looking at days, weeks or months left. Can you help?

[BBBella]

Thank you for writing, you helped me tonight. I'm worried by brother is in or nearing end stage alcoholism.  I love him so much.  I'm going to visit him within the next week. I'll find out more then.  Misty you are a wonderful daughter, sister and no doubt friend to many.  Thank you to all who wrote here, you helped me very much.  So sad ... alcoholism, it breaks my heart.  

[Bobinmaine]

May God Bless you and your dad and may God continue to work through you in helping others to stay sober.  

[Sylvia1978]

Wow! I just found this thread looking for info on alcoholism (dad and other family). What an amazing and beautiful story of family love, redemption, service and purpose. God bless you and your brother,Misty. I hope you are still doing well.

[ibizan]

OMG!i was speechless reading this!so sorry for your loss:(you have invaluable life experience to contribute to the counseling field!may many see it...and learn from it!i hope your holidays are peaceful and i know you will remember your dad's good moments in life!

[ibizan]

Back atcha my favorite assistant!:)i know u llurk w/the best of intentions!

[rpooo]

I always stop by to see how your doing over here Ibizzy, I'm sneaky sneaky like that. Ha ha You really have some wonderful people here in the community, especially you! It's always great to read how excited some people are about starting their new life.

I wish nothing but the best for you my friend.. Cheers!

Randy