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Posted 6/11/2020 11:20 PM (GMT 0)
I was just curious about how many of us forum participants here are on hospice. I expect to be here a long time as I feel reasonably good despite the rising 1300 PSA with basically nothing left to shoot at it, but all mets confined to bones. My hospice nurse said I was the strongest patient she has seen. Can I hear a survey of folks thoughts, surprises, experiences, etc.? XGEVA continuation for instance is one question I have.
Posted 6/12/2020 1:53 AM (GMT 0)
Hey Gmoose2, Although I am not in hospice I wanted to acknowledge your post and let you know that your words show how much strength you have. Hospice is a wonderful program administered by some truly amazing people. A friend of mine was in hospice and I witnessed first hand how truly compassionate they are. Glad to hear that you are feeling well despite the bone mets and that your spirits are well. I know that our other friends will be along shortly to say hello. Take care.
Posted 6/12/2020 2:06 AM (GMT 0)
my friend was in hospice for lung cancer and after six months they threw him out. I saw him several times over the next couple of years and I couldn't believe how well he looked. so that can happen too! good luck man
Posted 6/12/2020 3:41 AM (GMT 0)
If all your mets are confined to your bones, you may have a couple of more shots left in your gun before you go into hospice..R-223 and Lu-177 come to mind..Also, have you done any genetic work-ups looking for mutations that may be treatable..Foundation One Liquid Biopsy comes to mind..I realize that at your age, insurance coverage or lack there of might play a part here..Best of luck to you..
Posted 6/12/2020 3:46 AM (GMT 0)
gmoose2,

My thoughts and best wishes are on their way to you.
I can hear your strength through your post and am pulling for you.
FYI, i've done a bit of hospice volunteer work and have had a patient or two kicked off the program due to an improved condition. Hoping this happens for you too.

All my best,
BD
Posted 6/12/2020 7:36 AM (GMT 0)
My limited experience with hospice is that they are not all created the same.

My sister didn't feel right with the first company we got for our mother.. We simply switched and instantly saw the difference.

The caring attitude the new company has was written in their smile.
Posted 6/12/2020 9:46 AM (GMT 0)
Hello, I can only share what I observed with my parents--the Hospice program they were in allowed only medication for palliative care and pain management, so that answers your main question. As others have pointed out, each program is different, and what they medicate for and how is far from universal. I also recall that when we made that decision, the release paperwork was very clear about what they would and would not do.

That being said, Be at peace our friend, and best wishes for the journey ahead.
Posted 6/12/2020 6:54 PM (GMT 0)
Was that you on the Zoom meeting? If so great meeting you stay strong and positive. Prayers are lifted.
Posted 6/13/2020 7:35 AM (GMT 0)
Not me Cajun Jeff.
Posted 6/13/2020 9:14 PM (GMT 0)
I have not been on hospice myself yet, my only experience with it was when mesothelioma took our 40 some year old daughter in law about 7 months after my RP, 6 years ago now. God bless you, Brother!
Posted 6/14/2020 12:51 AM (GMT 0)

Hello, GMOOSE2 ~~~

You have always been a loyal comrade of mine here, and our paths have crossed on many posts, over time.

I wanted you to know that I am sending you my 100% support, from across the miles.

In regard to HOSPICE ~~~ some my closest friends and relatives have directly benefited from HOSPICE services.

In all of these cases, I can sincerely say HOSPICE care workers showed unwavering dedication, compassion, support, empathy, counseling, and skilled care.

It can provide an integral "extra" level of support in every setting ~~~ in one's home, in a skilled care center, or in a HOSPICE center.

I have appreciated the individualized services that I have seen, based on each person's needs. I hope this is your experience, as well.

Above all else, I am mindful of you. I have been thinking of you since reading your post.

This quotation from Minnesota novelist Garrison Keillor, author of LAKE WOBEGONE DAYS and A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION, captures my sentiments best, to share with you:

"One never has to look far ~~~ to see the campfires of gentle people."

It's a fellowship here, GMOOSE2 ... a brotherhood.

I can see determination in your post --- your proactive steps ---- your tenacity.

My favorite words written in your post? "I expect to be here for a long time."

You've got others thinking of you, GMOOSE2 ~~~ and I am just one of many here, who are thinking of you.

May your courage be undaunted,
Cyclone ~~~ # Iowa State University

Post Edited (Cyclone-ISU) : 6/13/2020 7:51:16 PM (GMT-6)

Posted 1/15/2021 1:05 PM (GMT 0)

Sad news to report ... an update to his last thread here ...

Our comrade, GMOOSE2, passed away on July 22, 2020 --- after a "gallant five year battle with cancer" - as stated in his obituary.

He was 59 years old, and his last post here told us that he was beginning HOSPICE care.

He had worked in education at a college. His hobbies included golf, bowling, bicycling, poker, watching baseball and ice hockey games, and dogs.

I appreciated GMOOSE2's contributions here, over time. Peace to his memory.

Fly high, Goose ~~~ fly high ...

Post Edited (Cyclone-ISU) : 1/16/2021 12:03:06 PM (GMT-7)

Posted 1/15/2021 1:37 PM (GMT 0)
Such as it is to be on a cancer forum... sigh.

RIP Gmoose2
Posted 1/15/2021 3:52 PM (GMT 0)
Let's hope his passing was gentle and surrounded by family.
Posted 1/15/2021 4:40 PM (GMT 0)
“sigh” is the truth

RIP

Condolences to the family
Posted 1/15/2021 11:49 PM (GMT 0)
Always sad to get this kind of news. RIP Goose.
Posted 1/16/2021 6:44 PM (GMT 0)
Sad news, indeed. Cyclone-- Thanks for letting us know.
Posted 1/16/2021 9:07 PM (GMT 0)
So sorry to hear that.
My first wife was hospice nurse and she was excellent in her position. I'd often go out to drive her to patients in the middle of the night. One 3am call we sat with a patient until the end. He daughter's were in another state but had called saying her mom did not pick up.
My brother used the same hospice of Ulster/Dutchess country and they were excellent

Glen Heinsohn
Posted 1/17/2021 4:03 PM (GMT 0)
Always sad news to hear that a brother has fallen.
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