Quote Originally Posted by Aggie_Ama View Post
. My only experience with death has been unexpected (heart attacks, accidents and murder) I do not know how to help him with knowing it is coming.
You don't have to do it yourself. Hospice staff are wonderful people and can ease the transition. Enlist help.

My DH was diagnosed with colon cancer between stage 3-4 almost 5 years ago. Statistically, he shouldn't be here. Surgery led to a MRSA infection so chemo was delayed. Chemo landed him in the hospital with dehydration. A year later, he had his hernia repaired (where he tore out stitches from throwing up.) I had to learn how to be a nurse real fast, as I did sterile bandage changes, vancomysin (sp?) into his drip IV, etc. Oh, and I held down my stupid job, often doing payroll in the ICU waiting room.

I found a caregivers class where I could vent everything I couldn't say to anybody else because I was too ashamed. Some days, I wanted to just walk out the door & keep walking. I was (and am) still madly in love with him - but the pressure was unbelievable.

I would urge you to find some outside help for yourself. The airline attendants tell you to put your own oxygen mask on first before you help another. Go get your oxygen mask.

Love and prayers to you & yours...

Kim