My mother was diagnosed with cancer of the brain, lungs, adrenal glands. She does not want treatment. What is next?

Hugs to you and your mom. Brave ladies.

You can be the best daughter/son by being a fabulous advocate for your Mom. She will need your love and direction. She has made her decision. Speak with the medical professionals about the prognosis. Help Mom to be sure all of her wishes are communicated --- is there a valid POA? Is her Will current? Does anyone know where all of her paperwork is? Does she have a living will/health care proxy in place? You can call all of the Hospice groups that serve your area and determine what services each offers. Choose the one that best fits her needs. The hospice team will offer additional guidance as well. If she is up to it, try to find something special to do each day. It can be as simple as sitting in the back yard. A favorite meal out or brought in! A short drive to a local playground to watch the children on the swings can bring a feeling of youth and excitement to her. Take out the old photos books and spend a little time going through them. Enjoy your Mom and the time you have left.

Thank you so much

ramona, I am so sorry. The first thing I would do is look into hospice programs in the area. If she is able to stay home, they will help her stay comfortable in her home. They will normally also be able to go into facilities to help. The good thing about hospice is they do not shy away from pain relief if your mother needs it. Pain is also a serious problem with cancer. Relieving the pain can make things so much better.

I understand your mother choosing to not be treated. If the cancer has spread over her body, treating it would be difficult and would make her very sick. I respect her decision. I hope you can find a hospice that is ideal for her. Some are better than others, so check out the reviews. Big hugs.

Call your own or your mother's PCP/GP in the morning and ask about her care options. What took you to the ER? Does your mother have immediate skilled nursing needs? Have they sent her home with you or admitted her?