Polly, if your mom is going downhill so fast, it would be really helpful, and very supportive for both you and your mom to get hooked up with Hospice. Many people wait until a person is desperate to call them, but they have so much in the way of helpful expertise to offer someone in your and your mom's situation. I am sure it is really difficult to live so far away, but there are options that they could help you with. In our area, one can self refer to Hospice but the best thing is to get a referral from her physician.

It is very hard to think about the end but Hospice is comfort care for patients AND their families and they will really help to explore all the options that your mom can have. I am thinking of you and hope that things are going a bit better. You have a very difficult situation and I will keep you in my prayers.