Laurie's brain tumour is classified as a Grade
IV glioblastoma multiforme. When this diagnosis was made by the
pathologist in July of 2011, it was communicated to us that it is a
serious illness. Although various treatments can be applied,
the full recovery from such a brain tumour is rare. Since the last
update about two months ago, Laurie's health has deteriorated
significantly. This was especially the situation over the last ten or so
days. Over the past couple of months we have met with
the radiation oncologist, the chemotherapy oncologist, the surgeon and
her GP on a number of occassions. Laurie had two MRIs that showed tumour
progression to the right side of the brain and along the ventricles.
The prognosis for Laurie was not very good.
On Friday, November 2nd, 2012, I took Laurie
into the Kemptville District Hospital (KDH) for a stay in the
out-patients area. The plan was that I would get some rest and that
Laurie's condition could be better assessed over a long period
of time. On Wednesday, November 7th Laurie was to return home. However,
this will not be the situation. Laurie's is now in the palliative care
ward of the KDH under the recommendation of the chemotherapy oncologist
and her GP. In speaking with the GP this
morning, I was told that Laurie would pass away in her room at the
hospital. There is nothing that anyone can do for Laurie at this point.
In the Fall 2012 issue of Brainstorm (a newsletter of the Brain Tumour
Foundation of Canada), there is a parallel story
of a man with the same disease. His glioblastoma was detected in
January of 2011 and he died in early May of 2012. He was only 24 years
of age. Although no one involved in Laurie's health care has told me how
long she may live I suspect that it will not be
very much longer. She is barely able to walk and can not walk unless
escorted. She is eating a little although this is a slow process and one
that requires direct assistance. She has no cognitive abilities that I
can report on but she does smile when I arrive
in the mornings to see her. Her focus seems to be on a television
channel although she is likely not able to comprehend the program.
Laurie has a single room which is comfortably
equipped. Her large window faces south which is the direction of Oxford
Station. The surrounding environment seems quite peaceful for the most
part. She is quite tired and sleeps after lunch
until late afternoon. I try and arrive about 11:00 and help with her
lunch. I stay with her until she is ready for a sleep. I return in the
evenings after dinner until she turns in.
If you are in the area you may visit with Laurie
at the KDH. She is on the second floor in room 109. Do not expect
Laurie to indicate any recognition or to communicate. She will be tired
but hopefully will be able to sense your being
there with her. This update is on the short side since I really can not
say anything more than I have. Thanks to those of you who
have continued to read the blog and for your thoughts of Laurie and I. I
know that she would appreciate this very much.
Mark
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