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End-Stage Liver Cancer
My father is 78. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer 6 years ago and treated it with radiation. The cancer reappeared a few years later as colon cancer and he had a section of his colon and his gall bladder removed. About a year ago the cancer surfaced again, this time as liver cancer with spots detected in his stomach and lungs as well. We have known for some time that the cancer is terminal. My dad has been on chemo. until recently, in hopes of extending his life.
Last week he was feeling particularly weak and went to his doctor. His doctor detected jaundice and further tests revealed that the cancer has progressed throughout his liver and lungs. He has begun to retain water and is sleeping more. I understand that these are symptoms of liver failure. The doctors told us that there is nothing more they can do and estimate he has only a few weeks left. They have stopped all medications (except for nausea, pain, and diarretic meds).
We took my father home and immediately setup hospice care for him. I'm trying to learn what we can expect over the next few weeks so that I can help my family prepare for it and make my father as comfortable as possible for as long as we're blessed to have him. Can anyone help guide me on what we can expect to happen as this progresses? I've read about the possibility of the loss of cognitive function, random hand movement, and even water seeping from body tissues. But all that the doctors have told us is that my father will sleep more and more until he eventually falls asleep and never wakes up. While that's a comforting thought, I suspect the reality is somewhat different (I lost someone to luekemia and lymphoma, and know what that's like). Any help or pointers to websites would be appreciated.
Thank you.
Last week he was feeling particularly weak and went to his doctor. His doctor detected jaundice and further tests revealed that the cancer has progressed throughout his liver and lungs. He has begun to retain water and is sleeping more. I understand that these are symptoms of liver failure. The doctors told us that there is nothing more they can do and estimate he has only a few weeks left. They have stopped all medications (except for nausea, pain, and diarretic meds).
We took my father home and immediately setup hospice care for him. I'm trying to learn what we can expect over the next few weeks so that I can help my family prepare for it and make my father as comfortable as possible for as long as we're blessed to have him. Can anyone help guide me on what we can expect to happen as this progresses? I've read about the possibility of the loss of cognitive function, random hand movement, and even water seeping from body tissues. But all that the doctors have told us is that my father will sleep more and more until he eventually falls asleep and never wakes up. While that's a comforting thought, I suspect the reality is somewhat different (I lost someone to luekemia and lymphoma, and know what that's like). Any help or pointers to websites would be appreciated.
Thank you.
I've been reading all the posts here to help me see where my mom is at with her inoperable liver cancer and from what I've read, she's very near the end of her battle. She's vomiting blood, wandering in the night, confused, little appetite, sleeps a lot. sounds so familiar to all the previous messages and I was hoping to see something different. She's a young 63 and has been on a trial drug called sorafenib as her treatment. I find it almost debilitating to know what to do for her other than visit with her, we live a bit of a distance and when I talked to her on the phone she would tell me everything is going well but then when I visit her I would see that's not true, so I've opted to take compassionate leave. At least I can be with her and help my step dad who is very angry at this situation and only seeing what this is doing to him and his future which makes matters worse. Nothing has made me feel more helpless than this experience of watching my mom go downhill so quickly and try to ease her suffering. Thank you all for your candid, heartfelt and honest posts, no one is ever alone and I appreciate the sharing, it has certainly helped me during this difficult time.
My husband has been on liver transplant list for what seems like an eternity. The past month or so he has exhibited such things as vomiting, sleeping more of the day and night away, his motor skills are slower, he gets so tired he mutters and you can't understand him. I'm not sure but I think his liver is in end stage and is shutting down. It was worse for me - I see him getting worse and no one else does. I don't want to lose him. I find myself doing nothing but asking him if he's okay - we have only been married 13 years (today) and I don't want to lose him!!!
I'm sorry to hear your dad is battling this dreaded disease. You might also try to post in the Cirrhosis of the Liver Community as well. I realize your father likely doesn't have cirrhosis. But the Community leader there, named Hector, has battled it personally as well, and maybe able to provide you with some unique insights to help you understand your father's battle. Take care.
My dad had colon cancer, and spread to liver. They can't give him treatment like chemo, instead, they removed the colon cancer 6/12 ago. He is jaundiced, and has been for the last few months. He hiccups a lot, and falls asleep when he sits down after a few minutes. It's been like that for 2 months. He gets frustrated as to why he keeps dozing off. We try and keep his mind off of things. He likes to be active, pottering about. We don't know what to expect. He is losing weight. His appetite is not great either. I'm so sad, and struggle to get my head around it. I still think he is in denial. Even though there is no hope, I don't think having this reinforced by visits to the hospital or hospice helps either, he gets very down after these visits. so day by day we try and take his mind off things. We don't know what to expect. Can anyone out there recognise these symptoms, and were they early on, or later?I need to be prepared. I need to take this on my shoulders, so that I can reassure my dad as things progress, and make sure he has pain relief in place,thank you.
Hi what has happened to your father since this post I know it was 2008. I am sorry I hear I assume he has passed away. I am wondering because my mother is in similar way. She was told she had bowel cancer in March this year had surgery in April one week after it was discovered, it is now in the
Liver and will soon commence chemo. Can you tell me what to expect
Liver and will soon commence chemo. Can you tell me what to expect
Hi my father in law has been told he has pancreatic cancer, which in in his liver and gullet as well, he was told on Dec 16th they have told him he had tumour level of 460, they said they will start some chemo in new year after xmas? he had told them he didnt want times or dates about how long he has left. Can anyone tell me is it likely they know he will die within 2 weeks and they have told him treatment will start in new year to give him hope while he is dying?? I feel i have to know so i can support my husband and prepare my children also. If anybody can tell me anything it would be help, xmas is almost upon us but no xmas spirit here just very heavy hearts x
A VERY CLOSE FRIEND OF MINE IS IN LATE STAGE LIVER CANCER,HE HAS HIS GOOD DAYS AND HIS BAD DAYS,HES TOUGH AND HANGIN ON IN THERE,NOW HIS EYES ARE SLOWLY TURNIN YELLOW AND HES ITCHING MORE.......BUT HES A FIGHTER& MAY GOD CONTINUE TO NE WITH HIM.....
My father passed away two days ago and while i am so distraught (I'm 35 and 6 months pregnant, and many say even more emotional that i would normally be) he is at peace. I am amazed by the end of life experience we had with him, in a way i think it will haunt me but i also feel so so fortunate. I have been researching as to anyone else has had such an experience and what it was like etc.
My 66 year old father fell into a coma for two days (he had stage four prostate cancer when he was diagnosed and became seriously ill two years after diagnosis, a month ago we found out he had secondaries in other parts of his bones and his liver), but after keeping watch for two days and sitting up with him during the night, myself, my mother and his sister who had flown over from Sydney were all chatting in his room with a cup of tea and talking about the news in the papers that day, while dad continued to sleep. We had cried and cried but were having a moment of calm chatter. I tried to get my pregnant self comfortable and wedged by feet onto the side of his bed and went to open a book, then I saw his eyes open and gaze at me. I motioned to get my mum and Aunt over.. and we stroked him, sprayed some mouth moistener into his open mouth (as we were advised during the coma) then he tried to say something (but he couldn't) and ry and smile. I told him how much we loved him and how special he was. And the name I would give my child if it is a boy - with his name as its middle name. And that we knew he would watch us. Then his breathing slowed right down and he drifted away. As sad as we were we were all so moved, and continue to feel so lucky. I just think that we could have all been making our tea in the kitchen, or I may not have been in the chair next to where he was facing and saw him opened his eyes. I'm so so sad but happy he is at peace after six - nine months of intense pain.
Have strength and please make your loved one feel as comfortable, relaxed and loved as possible.
if anyone else has has such a similar experience i would love to hear.
Bronwyn x
My 66 year old father fell into a coma for two days (he had stage four prostate cancer when he was diagnosed and became seriously ill two years after diagnosis, a month ago we found out he had secondaries in other parts of his bones and his liver), but after keeping watch for two days and sitting up with him during the night, myself, my mother and his sister who had flown over from Sydney were all chatting in his room with a cup of tea and talking about the news in the papers that day, while dad continued to sleep. We had cried and cried but were having a moment of calm chatter. I tried to get my pregnant self comfortable and wedged by feet onto the side of his bed and went to open a book, then I saw his eyes open and gaze at me. I motioned to get my mum and Aunt over.. and we stroked him, sprayed some mouth moistener into his open mouth (as we were advised during the coma) then he tried to say something (but he couldn't) and ry and smile. I told him how much we loved him and how special he was. And the name I would give my child if it is a boy - with his name as its middle name. And that we knew he would watch us. Then his breathing slowed right down and he drifted away. As sad as we were we were all so moved, and continue to feel so lucky. I just think that we could have all been making our tea in the kitchen, or I may not have been in the chair next to where he was facing and saw him opened his eyes. I'm so so sad but happy he is at peace after six - nine months of intense pain.
Have strength and please make your loved one feel as comfortable, relaxed and loved as possible.
if anyone else has has such a similar experience i would love to hear.
Bronwyn x
I'm praying for you to win your battle with cancer,did you hear about ****** thearpy,?it's non-conventional therapy and proved its success in treating even the end stage cancer,read about it and go for it,there is nothing to lose.i believe there will be always hope.
Azza
Azza
1 Comments
What the therapy called please
Hi. My mother was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer that mesatesized to her lungs and liver of Sept 2011. She was only a candidate for chemotheropy. This past Feb/ March(2013) her doctor took her off chemo treatment because of her severe allergic reactions. About a month or so ago I noticed jaundice in her eyes and eventually in her skin. She was itching and was complaining with stomach and back pain. Her appetite has slowed down some and started swelling in feet and legs. We found out last week from Ct scan her liver has a large mass. Doctors want to implant a stint into her liver to drain the waste of bilirubin but can't until the lesion is smaller. Her body is full of bile waste!!! Dr haven't said surgery yet but I know it will come too. As of now the doctors want to do radiation theropy to the liver. All of this to just give her more chemotheropy. I know it's been 2 years since initial diagnois but this is still hard to except. I know what your thinking and feeling...... Helpless. I know one day I too will hear the news of what could come. I'm just holding my breath and praying like crazy every moment. My mom is my best friend. God bless you in your journey as well. And may God give your mom the peace she needs.
God bless your mum! My prayers are with you! Sounds like we are going through exactly the same process! I hope you remain strong!!
Hi All. I'm 28 and my mother (63 last week) was diagnosed with colon cancer in November last year of which her colon operation successfully removed the tumors! Sadly it has spread to her liver, of which she has small modules in her lungs. Initially mum was given two years! Her first round of chemo gave positive scan results (liver tumors hadn't grown/lung modules had shrunk) however she suffered sickness and bowl movements which resulted in her losing 4 stone.
I have been on compassionate leave the last three weeks from work, as like my brother and my older sister (32) has moved back from oz where she has been the last 7 years. I have seen great deterioration in mum and it breaks my heart. I am concerned she is going to die in pain. She constantly has a dry mouth, can no longer dress herself, and is spending more time in bed! This really is a horrible way for someone to go!! I can't imagine what to expect upon her death. We have been told today we have weeks left, and I can't get my head round how anyone can deal with such information, however she still remains positive!!
Can anyone give positive advise as to how we can make her most comfortable....? We have all the relevant drugs here as and when the time comes!
We have never been effect by cancer in the family before! My mums parents are both still alive in their late 90's and they are finding it hard to deal with it too! I don't want my mum to die, as their is so much more she wants to do..... See the future grand kids Etc.
I don't want her to think that she is passing away!
God bless all of you!
I have been on compassionate leave the last three weeks from work, as like my brother and my older sister (32) has moved back from oz where she has been the last 7 years. I have seen great deterioration in mum and it breaks my heart. I am concerned she is going to die in pain. She constantly has a dry mouth, can no longer dress herself, and is spending more time in bed! This really is a horrible way for someone to go!! I can't imagine what to expect upon her death. We have been told today we have weeks left, and I can't get my head round how anyone can deal with such information, however she still remains positive!!
Can anyone give positive advise as to how we can make her most comfortable....? We have all the relevant drugs here as and when the time comes!
We have never been effect by cancer in the family before! My mums parents are both still alive in their late 90's and they are finding it hard to deal with it too! I don't want my mum to die, as their is so much more she wants to do..... See the future grand kids Etc.
I don't want her to think that she is passing away!
God bless all of you!
My mum was diagnosed with secondary liver cancer a few days ago. They are unable to treat because the cancer is extremely aggressive and she is also on anti rejection drugs for a kidney transplant she received a year and a half ago. She has a number of other medical problems which have been on going for some years, but typically her new kidney is working perfectly! She doesn't have much appetite and is starting to become more fatigued as the days go on. Her abdomen is quite swollen and she is in some pain, but as yet not taking morphine. She is at home and her Dr has prescribed steroids to try and give her an energy/appetite boost. I live in New Zealand but my parents live in the UK, I plan on flying home in the next few days, but I am so worried it may be too late and I won't get the chance to say goodbye. This whole thing has happened so quickly, going from relatively healthy to wondering how may days/week we have with her in less than 2 months. I hope I make it home in time to tell her how much I love her and what an amazing mum and grandma she is in person.
Have they checked his Amonia levels.My husband started the "confusion" episodes,(thats what we called it) "confused and halluciations".I read about it and mentioned it to Dr.s.His was elevated and they started him on Lactulose. helped alot
Thank u all. This makes it a bit easier. My husband
was diagnosed late Sept. 2013 w stage 3 liver cancer. I see him withering away. He sleeps alot now. Some appetite left. I know what to look forward too whether it b graffic or not.
was diagnosed late Sept. 2013 w stage 3 liver cancer. I see him withering away. He sleeps alot now. Some appetite left. I know what to look forward too whether it b graffic or not.
Thank u all. This makes it a bit easier. My husband
was diagnosed late Sept. 2013 w stage 3 liver cancer. I see him withering away. He sleeps alot now. Some appetite left. I know what to look forward too whether it b graffic or not.
was diagnosed late Sept. 2013 w stage 3 liver cancer. I see him withering away. He sleeps alot now. Some appetite left. I know what to look forward too whether it b graffic or not.
My brother also was diagnosed with liver cancer 4, sirrosis & hep C. Gave him 8 months, tried to give him a cancer pill called Nexavar but it made him worse. Nothing else they can do. Last test showed he had a month to live. Well it's been a month. I knew my brother wouldnt go with out a fight either. He is a tough biker kind of guy full of life. He lived hard & fast. He is now in a hospice facility on all kinds of meds. We tried to keep him at home on hospice but he got real paranoid & started hullicinating that people were after him, tried to run out of the house several times. He still tries to walk a little, he is putting up a good fight. The drs say the toxins are building up and effecting his brain. Also his kidneys, we visit himleveryday, sometimes twice. Its breaking our hearts watching him go thru this. If the drs were rite he wouldnt be here. For some reason he is hanging on. Hang in there & know your not alone :(
My brother also was diagnosed with liver cancer 4, sirrosis & hep C. Gave him 8 months, tried to give him a cancer pill called Nexavar but it made him worse. Nothing else they can do. Last test showed he had a month to live. Well it's been a month. I knew my brother wouldnt go with out a fight either. He is a tough biker kind of guy full of life. He lived hard & fast. He is now in a hospice facility on all kinds of meds. We tried to keep him at home on hospice but he got real paranoid & started hullicinating that people were after him, tried to run out of the house several times. He still tries to walk a little, he is putting up a good fight. The drs say the toxins are building up and effecting his brain. Also his kidneys, we visit himleveryday, sometimes twice. Its breaking our hearts watching him go thru this. If the drs were rite he wouldnt be here. For some reason he is hanging on. Hang in there & know your not alone :(
Im going thru the same exact thing. My brother is only 46. And because he is young he is fighting for his life with the strong parts of his body, but getting so confused & so scared. He tries to walk a little, and the hospice nurses say this is normal, the toxins go to the blood and it effects his brain. If this is the end than why isnt he resting peacefully like everyone else says. They stopped giving my brother anything to relieve the toxins, and I dont know why. More calls to the drs and questioning the hospice nurses.its exausting and consuming. It breaks your heart in a million peices. Hang in there :(
1 Comments
Same thing for me with my mum it awful hope there would be a Miracle to cure this dreaded thing
All you can do is be there for her. Talk to her, listen to her, or just sit beside her. We were doing that with my brother who has end stage liver cancer, but he was getting so paranoid & halucinating that someone was after him, he tried to get out of the house and it got dangerous so he is now in a hospice facilty, still trying to walk out, lol... however he is confused & can barely comunicate to us. My family has been taking shifts to be with him and try to comfort him. Most of the time anything he says is childlike. I think the meds make them different. The drs say its the cancer. Im confused. I wish my brother was home again. Just be there, good luck & know you are not alone. Its the saddest thing for anyone to go thru :(
you are blessed to have your father at home to spend every last second with him. Im sorry you have to go thru this too. My 46 yr old brother with 4th stage liver cancer, who also complained alot about his stomache hurting, wanted to be home but when hospice strted him on morphine and other drug combinations he became very paranoid & confused. The drs say its the cancer that does that. Im sad that my brother couldnt be at home where he wanted to be. Now he is in a hospice facility and getting pumped up with meds..he still tries to walk around but something is clearly effecting his thoughts & motor skills. Its the saddest thing in the world to watch someone you love go thru this. One day hospice told us this was the end and to say our goodbyes, the next day he was sitting up eating. Hang in there. Be strong. :)
Im sorry for your loss. I was noticing the simularities in your story, my 46 yr old brother was diagnosed with 4th stage liver cancer in Feb. Non operable. They gave him 8 mos. He tried a new cancer drug called Nexavar but it made him so ill they had to stop. After many visits to the hospital he had an abdominal scan & the dr said it was worse than he thought and gave him a month to live. He chose hospice at home. They came to the house & he began to take morphine & Ativan, and a pain patch. Things were going along ok than he started acting confused & very paranoid. He thought people were trying to chase him & kill him. He even tried to run out the door to get away, He ended up going to a hospice facility & his meds were doubled. Because he is only 46 he is still fighting for his life but getting more scared & paranoid. Since his meds were upped he is so wacked out. My heart is broken in peices watching him deteriate. Hospice is keeping him pain free but he is so restless & tries to walk around & can barely comunicate, Im so confused, did he go on hospice too soon ? One day hospice said to say our goodbyes cause he had all the end signs, even blue fingers, shallow breathing, than the next day he was sitting up. They thought it was the end, but he is hanging on..
Hi! Jojobean,
You may consider to take your husband to Dr. Im Sung Min in Eatonville,WA
You may consider to take your husband to Dr. Im Sung Min in Eatonville,WA
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