Hello everyone, I'm a longtime member here whom I hope some of you will recall. I haven't been around much because of battling serious health problems, but for many years prior to 2023 I visited and posted at least daily. I was a moderator for six years and have been a Guide since 2011. I've always loved it here, but now the time has come to prepare to say goodbye.
You see, I was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the lung with mets to the other lung and lymph nodes. My prognosis is extremely poor; chemotherapy is the only mode of treatment available for my kind of cancer, and I don't want it. I always said I'd never do chemo because of what I saw it do to patients, most of whom were miserable from throwing up and having diarrhea and not feeling like eating because of the nausea. They lost their hair, their teeth, and a good portion of their dignity. No thank you! I'd rather have six months of "OK" than a year of feeling terrible.
So, I've chosen to let nature take its course. No more hospital stays, doctor appointments, scans or procedures. I'm on hospice, which has already helped tremendously with comfort care and things like funeral planning. I have good days and bad days; today is one of my good ones, which is why I'm posting this now. I don't have much energy or strength, and I sleep a lot. Food doesn't interest me, so I've lost a lot of weight. But my soul remains strong, and I'm looking forward to the day when I see my husband and baby daughter again. I know I walk with God and trust him to lead me home.
Thanks for reading this rather lengthy post. I've enjoyed being here at AN all these 22 years, and I'll still be around for a little while yet so I'll keep checking in. God bless you. Viva
I am so very sorry you are going through this. And I am not trying to tell you what you may already be well aware of but as a long time Oncology nurse, things have changed and are changing rapidly with targeted therapy, symptom management and palliative support.
I hope you are getting the care you need and deserve!
Viva, you have made a difference in my life. I've been with allnurses since 2013 (admittedly mostly a lurker) and always enjoyed what you had to say. I had wondered where you went. I am so sorry that this is happening to you.
Wishing you only the best. Go with peace, love, no pain, and no regrets.
Specializes in RETIRED Cath Lab/Cardiology/Radiology.
Viva's son and daughter have posted on social media, requesting prayers for the family, as Viva is rapidly declining. Thank you all for remembering them during this difficult time.
Dot B
1 Post
🙏🏾Praying for comfort and continued peace as you prepare to go "home"