cancer and liver failure

[jlh1964]

My husband was diagnosed with esophageal cancer October of 2010.  He went through treatments, surgeries, has dealt with many infections.  October of 2011 he was in the hospital again, dealing with infection.  A CT scan was done and they told us his cancer had spread to the liver and lungs.  At that time he was given 6 months to a year depending on treatment.  He has not been able to get treatment because of the infections.  Yesterday I was speaking with his nurse.  She said his liver was beginning to shut down, his belly is puffed out and his temp is low.  What does that mean for his prognosis?  She also said that she believes his other organs are not working properly.  He sleeps most of the time these days, has very little energy, has lost a bunch of weight.  I don't know what to think.

[dolphin8808]

I am sooo sorry. My father also had esophagel cancer which spread to his liver and lungs. My heart hurts for you.  It is such an emotional roller coaster and you have to be your husbands advocate.  From what my father's oncologist said, this can be a part of the process, from Stage 4 cancer.

Just ask a lot of qusetion and do not be afriad to be a "pain in the butt." Get straight answers, demand they not just "give up on him." and make sure they are doing whatever they can.

They had to stop my fathers chemo treatments as well because he kept getting infections, I truly understand where you are coming from and I am so very sorry, I know this is a hard time and you are confused, scared and feel rather lost. Please know we are here to help you in anyway we can. I just went through this with Daddy so I am here to help in anyway I can.

[ku111]

I can only imagine how difficult this must be for all of you.  I think you need to ask the dr's that question.  They have a pretty good idea of what to tell you.  You need this so you are able to prepare, have a plan and know what step is next.  They also have many programs that might be able to help you guys through all of this.  I know they should offer but sometimes they think everything is okay or you don't need or want help if you don't ask.  I am so very sorry you guys are having to go through all of this.  If you have someone else that you feel comfortable going with you to next appointment or meeting it would be helpful.  When people are in a stressful situation they really only retain about 15% of what is said to them.  This person could take notes.  Get a list of questions you would like or need answered.  You might feel better knowing what is going on with your husband and he might also.  Goodluck and we are here for you!  ((hugs))