Relief at the diagnosis

[True Dough]

4. Warm wishes, GliderGuider

My sympathies on the diagnosis. I absolutely respect each person's choice as to how their lives should end.

Which province do you reside in? Hopefully palliative care is not stretched to the limits where you are. Have you looked into a local hospice organization where you live? Having a volunteer stop by once or twice a week would give you an opportunity to get out and stretch your legs or collect your thoughts. This could be a long haul not only for your wife, but for you as well. As much as you share love, it will be demanding on you to be providing increasing care over the weeks and months ahead. You should consider your own well-being too, so that your support for your wife is optimal.

Will she be on morphine? Be aware of the common constipation issues associated with long-term use. I mention this not a deterrent, just something to be prepared for. There will be a great deal of powdered fiber drinks and enemas to counter the constipating effects of the morphine.

I wish you great strength, but remember to allow yourself to feel a range of emotions and not to consider yourself "weak" or a "letdown" if you are having trouble coping during stretches. Be gentle, not only with your wife, but with yourself.