Julie-
Thank you so much for taking the time to reply. I know you have a full plate. Here is a little update and any advice/input would be great.
Mama is still in the hospital and this is why:
1. Sodium, magnesium and potassium levels are still too low. Nothing seems to be helping.
2. No bowel movement since Friday. Actually, she finally told us this has been a problem for a couple of weeks. THe doctor (family physician....quack in my opinion) has given her stool softener, laxative, suppository, some kind of drink that "makes anybody go within 30 minutes". She has had all this within 24 hours and still nothing.
3. Her hand is hurting and swollen. THe quack doctor never looked at it and told us it was carpel tunnel....what?????????
Check for a blockage or anything that may be causing no bowel movement. Actually LOOK AT her hand and see what that might be.
My questions for you are......if the tumor (lymph node) is pressing on her back and causing pain, could it not also be related to the lack of bowel movement?
Also, we met with a hospice agency yesterday and that went pretty well. However I believe Mama may be in a little bit of denial as to what is going on. She seems to think she will return home to do all she has done before. Now keep in mind that those things included driving, canning (LOTS), lifting, picking in the garden, going to Nashville to stand at the Farmer's Market all day etc. Not just regular day to day stuff.
Again, I truly appreciate those of you who have posted.