She will most likely not remain at home for the duration of her hospice care, but that is where she wishes to be for now.
Hospice care, in the way I am using it, is an approach to care in which all aspects of the patient and family are addressed to relieve suffering and stress. They will be responsible for the administration of any medications for pain or discomfort. They will be resposible for helping us to build the best possible environment to ease Alicia's mind. They will support all of us as we grieve and process all of the changes that are sure to ripple through our family and friends.
The oncology team at JCMG will still be involved in her care, but will be taking on a support role. And no further treatments will be given. The team there will no longer be focused on her cancer, and instead will become focused on her person.
While no one can say how long Alicia has to live, or what those numbered days will look like, it is more likely than not, that either the drugs given for palliation, or the cancer itself, will begin to rob her of cognitive moments. If you have been planning to see her, I would recommend doing so sooner rather than later. If you feel like you are unable to cope with seeing her, that is fine too. Everyone who knows Alicia will experience this differently and there is no right or wrong way to cope. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. The one thing that we can all do, is hold our happiest memories of Alicia in our hearts and minds.
As far as her physical well being, she has pneumonia and her blood counts are not within the ideal range. Her face, particularly through the cheeks and jowls, along with her tongue are terribly swollen. She is in pain and struggles to find the balance between taking her current pain meds and trying to remain aware of people and surroundings.
Thank you all for your continued prayers. And for the offers of help. For being there for all of us.
~Sarah