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
Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.
Viva has contributed so much to allnurses. Her sage advice will live here to provide guidance to many future nurses. Go in peace and love my friend Viva.
Specializes in RETIRED Cath Lab/Cardiology/Radiology.
Viva passed away this morning, per her son's FB post. May we be comforted knowing that, to the end, she lived life on her own terms. Peace to you, Viva.
Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.
May she be at peace and deepest condolences to her family. May her family find comfort in their fondest memories. Her contributions and guidance will live on in her legacy here.
I'm so glad I was able to talk to her and send her flowers while she was able. She was amazed that I thought she was such an inspiration with her humor, kindness and strength.
Rest in power my good friend. You were loved and will be missed.
sirI, MSN, APRN, NP
17 Articles; 45,877 Posts
Thank you, @dianah.
God bless you, Viva.