My mum had breast cancer last August . She had one breast removed and 29 lymph nodes from armpit . December she started with severe pain in shoulder and back fast forward to scan results she has secondary cancer in spine . The one and only oncology appointment she had they told her she has months left to live 
they aren’t giving her any more treatment so it’s just palliative care now . She had stopped eating as she was so nauseous but she is taking anti sickness tablets and these are helping her eat . To be honest I think it’s the anti sickness drugs keeping her going . She’s taking morphine at night but sleeping until 3 pm the next day and wakes groggy . She’s so lethargic but still talking normally and only slightly forgetful nothing to worrying yet . She’s such a strong stubborn woman and I think she’s hanging on because her 15 year old grandson lives with her he has done since birth. We can’t take him when she passes for personal reasons so along with mum being so poorly I’m worried about him and also her dog . My head is spinning . I don’t want her to lose her dignity she’s a very proud 72 year old . Has anyone been in this situation? How long does months mean ?
thankyou in advance this is my first time posting .
HI Pammie52
how long is months left to live is the million dollar question and sadly there isn't a definitive answer. Like Granny59, I wish doctors wouldn't give timelines.
I supported my late husband through his stage 4 brain tumour journey. Initially we were told 18-24 months but after surgery that was reduced to 12-15 months in Sept 2020. In Feb 2023 we were told days/ a couple of weeks at most as the oncologist passed us into the hands of the local palliative team. In Aug 2023 we were told to have our last conversations as again they thought G only had days. He passed away peacefully at the end of Oct 2023 - 38 months and a day from his initial diagnosis. Timelines are best guesstimates based on published averages and no one is average. Everyone is unique.
I agree with Granny59 that a call to the MacMillan Helpline might be a good place to start with regards to what arrangements you might need to line up for her grandson. Are there any other family members he could stay with? The local vet will be able to support with re-homing the dog if that becomes necessary too. Hopefully none of that is needed and that you can all work out a solution.
sending love and light and hugs
Wee Me xx
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