If Lily were to choose option one, the oncologist said there is about a 20% chance that it would reduce the tumor size and growth for an undetermined amount of months, anywhere from two months to six months. The problem with option 1 is that the treatment might be too hard on Lillys body to withstand it and therefore, excel it. And keep her in pain for weeks and weeks. And that's IF it's effective.
Option 2 would be hospice care at home with a life expectancy of maybe two weeks.
Lily is in a state of struggle, coupled with pain and other end of life consequences.
Her mother and I both believe Lily will choose option two, hospice. The oncologist, in fact, said that if Lily were his own sister, he would choose option 2.
This stems mainly from the fact that option 1 will be a painful struggle that is only going to have a "slim "chance of extending her life, at all.
So, I am going to head back to the hospital at 5 PM, to talk with Lily and listen more than anything about whatever choice she makes.
Lily was not in the room when the oncologist broke the news to her mother and myself, but he did explain that he went over the options with Lily prior to him visiting us.
It was at that time that Lily expressed that she wanted to be alone in her hospital room to digest everything that was said. In addition, her pain medication has now increased in order for her to have a meaningful discussion with us.
Her mom and my prediction is that Lily will choose hospice care as the pain of chemo was too difficult the first round. And the oncologist just agreed with her.
So, I am beginning to set up the house for that care as I type this update.
Two weeks to live? I can't even imagine what is running through Lilly's mind. But I will find out soon enough.
I've already alerted my employer that I will use the rest of my vacation time and then go on FMLA. Unfortunately, it might be just a week or two.
I'll update more when I am able.
Though FMLA would end with Lily's passing, if you were depressed due to her passing, you would likely qualify for a new FMLA claim as a result. It might require a doctor's confirmation. My point being that you don't necessarily need to go right back to work.
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