Helene, so sorry to hear these latest developments. The elevated white count would seem to indicate some sort of infection in her body, isn't that correct?

I think you're right to be considering hospice. They are experts in pain management and will ensure that your mother is comfortable. It's also support for YOU, too. What I learned from my mother's hospice nurse is that many people wait too late to seek the help, which is just a shame. There is still such a negative impression of hospice out there, as a "last gasp." I thought it was that way, myself, and when they first mentioned it to me at the nursing home, I was horrified. I'm glad I did it when I did, however, because that hospice nurse was wonderful. I could reach her at any time -- she gave me her home and cell numbers -- and it was much easier and more direct than calling the doctor who was assigned to Mom's care.

Hope you are able to sleep a bit tonight.

Oh, dear!! For someone as frail as she is, pain management is soooo important. Sometimes I think all the IVs, oxygen tubes, etc. instead of helping, make them so uncomfortable that they do more harm than good. It's a feeling of not being able to move freely, being "restrained" by tubing, that is a little scary to someone that can't quite understand what's going on.
Take care of yourself and rest as much as you can.
PB

How is your mom doing today? What did the doctor say? And how are you?

Hospice got my family through the final months of my motherÂs illness. Not only were the hospice nurses well-versed in pain management, but they knew so many ways to make Mother more comfortable. They were also a tremendous source of support for my father.

Has anyone heard from Helene? I've been checking in all evening and still no update. I'm worried...

Thinking about you all, Helene. I hope she is getting more comfortable. Hospice was invaluable to us for almost 2 years. It is a very good move on your part. ((Helene)) Derry

Helene has just posted a new thread.