Pancreatic cancer has a very poor prognosis and can be an unpleasant way to die. The good news is that in the elderly cancer tends to progress more slowly. The idea of hospice is a good one even if she is not ready yet. If you make contact now you will know what to expect when the condition worsens.
I have an acquaintance who has pancreatic cancer. He is in early 70's. He was diagnosed about 18 months ago. Went through surgery and chemo. Has done well. Has been traveling and carrying on his life much as before he was diagnosed. He has a colostomy bag that he'll probably always have. The most recent testing shows that he has new sites or spots (not sure of correct term). He is taking infusion treatments instead of chemo for this latest finding. He has two neighbors diagnosed with cancer during this time frame. They have both died. I suppose there are many factors that contribute. I'm sorry you are dealing with this horrible disease.
My husband died of pancreatic cancer in "the tail" which is the worst scenario possible. First of all, it takes a long, long time to find pancreatic cancer - it took three years to find it in my husband. And if it is in the "tail", that means the cancer has gone through the entire body and has proceeded through the pancreas to the end. If it is in the "head", it is not quite as advanced but either way, it is fatal. Usually six months once it is found is what one can expect.
If I were you I would suggest you call hospice as unfortunately pancreatic cancer is often fatal and the patient often deteriorates quickly. This type of cancer affects nutritional status & may be quite painful. First & foremost is providing comfort to the patient and hospice will offer that, as well as support for the person's family & loved ones. Good luck
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The idea of hospice is a good one even if she is not ready yet. If you make contact now you will know what to expect when the condition worsens.
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