After years of doctors, trials, tests, meds etc. it is time to rest and flow with the current

[Faith1111]

After almost 4 years of posting here I have found it most difficult to write this. My wonderful 57 year old brother Bob has entered Hospice 3 weeks ago. Unfortunately these last three months have been one setback after another. Emergency spinal surgery leaving him struggling to walk, a permanent indwelling catheter to drain his lungs, blood clots, and then shingles on his face and in his eye which really was the last straw. He had done one infusion of chemo but was unable to continue. He is very weak now and losing weight. He is sleeping more during the day. Gabapentin and oxy are keeping him comfortable. I have always dreaded the day that I would have to write this. So many of you have been so kind and supportive over the years. TA, Nal, Patrick, George, and so many others have helped shape the treatments that added time to his life. I have followed so many of your stories and still do. I just wanted to let you all know

[Longterm101]

I am heartbroken

[Faith1111 in reply to Longterm101]

I know. You have been an incredible friend, his biggest supporter and someone he still cares so much about.

[Longterm101 in reply to Faith1111]

So unfair for a 57 year old ……

[shuckymesh62]

So very sorry.

[HopingForTheBest1]

So sorry to hear this update. You have tried your best.

[Faith1111 in reply to HopingForTheBest1]

Thank you Carl

[DarkEnergy]

Oh, Bob I remembered our phone calls, we drove each other joyfully nuts. We're both so passionate and animated, so sorry we drifted apart in our quest and never took that walk at Newton park.

Amazingly 4 years has passed, I feel we just chatted a few days ago...

[Faith1111 in reply to DarkEnergy]

Bob remembers you well. Two brothers brought together by chance and circumstance. Thank you for your support. He wishes you well

[Hidden in reply to DarkEnergy]

💔🙏

[Beachcomber8]

So very sorry to hear this, Faith. Praying for physical and spiritual comfort for your dear brother Bob, and strength and peace for all the family.

[Faith1111 in reply to Beachcomber8]

Thank you so much

[Tall_Allen]

It seems to be getting popular in hospice to write down or record final thoughts. You may want to suggest that to him if he can keep his thoughts together. Having a sense of purpose, even in the end times may be something he wants.

[Faith1111 in reply to Tall_Allen]

I will talk to him about that good suggestion. Thank you TA

[Metaldraft]

Faith and the one who had been there for him I’m sadden by the events that have currently and circulating your life. Thank you for the one thousand eleven percent of constant love ❤️ Your are a awl by his side

[Faith1111 in reply to Metaldraft]

Thank you so much Metaldraft

[rogerandme]

So sorry

[Faith1111 in reply to rogerandme]

Thank you

[Metaldraft]

I meant angel at his side

[Yadifan]

Prayers for you and your family for strength and comfort. Prayers for Bob for a peaceful transition. I know how heartbreaking this must have been to write this post but all of us here appreciate the update. Please know that you're surrounded in prayer by all of us here. I'm so very sorry Faith. This has been such a hard journey for your dear brother and you as well. You have truly fought hard for answers and hope. He is blessed to have you by his side.

[Faith1111 in reply to Yadifan]

Thank you so much for all of your prayers and support Yadifan

[Ramp7]

Words escape me right now. You have been a true angle assisting your Brother and me.

[Faith1111 in reply to Ramp7]

Thank you Ramp for your support and caring. It means a lot

[Aussieguy1]

May Bob rest pain free and it be a smooth ride on that current. You have both fought the good fight. I have followed your posts on here and have admired your love for your brother. May you both obtain gentle peace.

[Faith1111 in reply to Aussieguy1]

Thank you so much Aussie for your kind words

[Hidden]

What an amazing sister he has.

[Faith1111 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you. It’s what you do for someone you love.

[NotAlwaysSunshine]

I'm so sorry to see this post. Please know that we care so much.

[Faith1111 in reply to NotAlwaysSunshine]

Thank you Sunshine. We are all connected here

[NickJoy]

Faith I was so hoping a miracle would occur, still envisaging Bob getting into the truck to drive his daughter. My love to you all.

[Faith1111 in reply to NickJoy]

Thank you for that NJ. This is such a supportive community. I appreciate your visualization as promised. Somehow I believe in miracles. Maybe that vision will still come to pass. Bless you

[NickJoy in reply to Faith1111]

I very much hope and pray it will.

[Vindog29]

Sometimes we read words but are in disbelief in believing them, reading yours just now was one of those moments. I had to go back and read the chats I had with Bob, your beloved brother, he was filled always with so much hope, so much positivity that treatments like Keytruda would work, each update ending with a smiley face. So unfair that hope did not become a reality, my heart is broken with this news.

[Faith1111 in reply to Vindog29]

Thank you so much for your care and kind words. Yes, it is heartbreaking and I still cannot believe how quickly this all happened. You have been a great support to him. I recall many of your conversations. Thank you for being there for him

[Magnus1964]

Send him our prayers.

[Faith1111 in reply to Magnus1964]

I will Magnus. Thank you

[Fuzzman77]

So sorry you’re having to go through this now. Very sad.

[Faith1111 in reply to Fuzzman77]

Thank you

[dorke]

So sorry 😔

[Faith1111 in reply to dorke]

Thank you

[Faith1111]

Nal I cannot thank you enough for all you have said and done for us. I appreciate the prayer and the blessing. I have faith and I believe. Thank you

[Brysonal]

So so sorry to read this. Thank you for sharing his and your story, it feels like an honour to have witnessed the love, support, humour and tenacity you have described in your posts. You and Bob clearly have had a lot of happy years and times and am so sorry this hasn’t played out differently. We’ve never met but you have inspired all the same. So so sorry

[Faith1111 in reply to Brysonal]

Thank you for your kind words Brysonal.

[joeguy]

So sorry to hear this. You are a wonderful sister.

[Faith1111 in reply to joeguy]

Thank you joeguy.

[Boywonder56]

A good many of us here follow each others plightEven if we cant be there when they pass into the light...

Not one of us will judge another when

Its time to stop the fight

For each of us will reach our limit....

After fighting with all our might.....

A brother to have a sisters love

To comfort and hold him tight

Surely makes the pain of letting go

Less dark and allright....bw

In time a smile at the good memories...

[Faith1111 in reply to Boywonder56]

So beautifully written. I will treasure it

[Aodh]

I’m sorry to hear this news. I’ll keep you and Bob in my thoughts.

Hugh

[Faith1111 in reply to Aodh]

Thank you Hugh

[Lettuce231]

I'm heartbroken for you all, so very sad.

You are the most amazing sister God ever created, I've read your posts and thought why didn't I have a sister who cares as much as you do, mine doesn't.

My wife and I send you our love and prayers to you and each of your family.

You will see him again Faith.

Phil

[TJGuy]

Faith1111 I will be thinking of you and Bob through these difficult days. If we could all have a sister like you, he is blessed.

[Faith1111 in reply to TJGuy]

Thank you TJ

[spw1]

I am very sad to read this. Sending love and light to you all.🙏

[Faith1111 in reply to spw1]

Thank you spw1

[caretkr]

May he be at peace. It's tough but hope you will find strength.God bless..

[Faith1111 in reply to caretkr]

Thank you caretkr

[lincolnj8]

OMG. So young. Such an awful disease. He was so lucky to have loving family beside him. Sending prayers..

[Faith1111 in reply to lincolnj8]

Thank you lincoln

[larry_dammit]

At times like this what do you say 😢 , God bless you for caring for your father, God help him be comfortable in these last few days or weeks.

[Faith1111 in reply to larry_dammit]

Thank you Larry

[Bebby1]

My prayers are with you and your family at this terrible time 🙏🏽

[Faith1111 in reply to Bebby1]

Thank you Bebby

[Pancake_Lefse]

Godspeed. I’m so sorry.

[Faith1111 in reply to Pancake_Lefse]

Thank you Pancake

[Hidden in reply to Pancake_Lefse]

❤️🙏

[TonyS58]

I'm so sorry, Faith. Through your words, we have experienced Bobby's pain and frustration. In them, we see our own destiny. We are all members of his fraternity. Brothers to the end.

[Faith1111 in reply to TonyS58]

Fraternity brothers…. Absolutely. Thank you Tony

[Istomin]

Very sorry to hear this. I hope all goes as gently as possible.

[Faith1111 in reply to Istomin]

Thank you Istomin

[Lasered]

Praying that God comforts Bob, you, and your family.

[Faith1111 in reply to Lasered]

Thank you Lasered

[Hidden]

Such sad news. You must be a Wonderful Sister. May God give you strength to carry on and cherish the good days🙏

[Faith1111 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you Tommy

[Currumpaw]

Dear Faith1111,

I am so sorry to read your post. You have been a blessing to your brother. So many are alone or worse, in a situation where the "significant" others really don't care.

I know that you will be there for him, especially now. Do not forget yourself! Someone as caring and giving as yourself would tend to do that.

Family, friends and clergy can be helpful, but at times, we are our own best support and company. It gives us time to "sort things out".

Currumpaw

[Faith1111 in reply to Currumpaw]

Thank you currumpaw, he has a large supportive family, devoted wife and four wonderful children. He’s also been blessed with an abundance of friends who love him as well. Being the oldest of five and Bob being the youngest my nature is to Comfort and support him through this journey from start to finish.

[Yank66]

Praying for a miracle and wishing you all peace and comfort. What a lucky man to have you in his life.

[Faith1111 in reply to Yank66]

Thank you Yank 66. I still pray for a miracle too

[Lavender22]

He is at peace and you were always there for him through this terrible ordeal. What a sister! Sending you love and strength through this hard juncture.

[Faith1111 in reply to Lavender22]

Thank you Lavender22

[Pianodude]

Sorry to hear this

[ch922455]

So sorry Faith. I do not know you but felt compelled to say something. Life just isn't fair sometimes 57 is no age these days.

[Faith1111 in reply to ch922455]

Thank you ch for your kind words

[Lowbed]

Faith,I have followed your brother's journey and I am so sorry. Thank you for all the information you and your brother have shared on prostate cancer. May Bob's pain be well managed.

[Faith1111 in reply to Lowbed]

We shared a nice connection Lowbed. So thankful for your support.

[Boatingfun]

It broke my heart to read about your brother! I'd like to thank you for sharing, because I didn't realize our guys had a higher chance of developing shingles. We'll ask to get the vaccine. ❤ thanks again

[Faith1111 in reply to Boatingfun]

Yes, please get the shingles vaccine. Going through chemo can greatly increase the chances. On top of everything else it can be devastating. Thank you for your kind words

[DarkEnergy in reply to Boatingfun]

I got the shingles, at least for me, it stayed around the lower waist area. To imagine shingles can occur above the neck area is breathtaking.

[Muffin2019]

Condolences, so young to lose a fellow warrior, may you find peace in prayer and fond memories of him. God bless and strengthen you through the difficult times ahead.

[Faith1111 in reply to Muffin2019]

Thank you Muffin

[Hailwood]

I'm so sorry to hear about this, I can only hope that he remains pain free during this stage of his journey.

[Faith1111 in reply to Hailwood]

Thank you Haileood. I’m hoping he stays pain-free as well.

[Cooolone]

I'm so sorry and heartfelt anguish falls over me to read this. I'm a newbie here (kinda), but have read many of your postings and it's easy how we all feel that instant kindred spirit with our fellow warriors and their loved ones. Especially those who are side by side in the forward march, sharing all the hardships the warriors do. There's so much love there, we can all see it and feel it and how wonderful that is cannot be put into words.

I'm sending prayers and positive thoughts your way, and hope Bob is comfortable as his time will allow. Bless you all!

Best Regards

[Faith1111 in reply to Cooolone]

Very well said Cooolone. Thank you for your prayers

[Newyork6264]

Way to young. Send him my prayers. May he and you find peace.

[Faith1111 in reply to Newyork6264]

Thank you Newyork

[Scout4answers]

Peace and Love Faith

[Faith1111 in reply to Scout4answers]

Thank you Scout

[gloriahale]

GOD BLESS YOUR BROTHER AND YOU AND HIS FAMILY. MAY GOD BRING HIM PEACE.

[Faith1111 in reply to gloriahale]

Thank you gloria

[TylexGP]

So sorry to hear. You have been an awesome sister and advocate for Bob; hugs to you both.

[Faith1111 in reply to TylexGP]

Appreciate your hugs

[spencoid2]

Thank you for the report. Would should all be so blessed to have someone like you at our side when the time comes.

[Faith1111 in reply to spencoid2]

Wish I could be there for everyone. Thank you spencoid2

[Bethpage]

I dreaded the day that I would read this. And now, with tears in my eyes, I have. I am so very sorry.

[Faith1111 in reply to Bethpage]

You have always been so kind in your replies. I have dreaded this too. Thank you for thinking of us

[Bethpage in reply to Faith1111]

Wish I could give you a hug.

[dmt1121]

So sorry for his struggle and yours. I was diagnosed at 57 and that was considered young. Your brother in hospice at 57 is far too soon.

The blessing is he will be freed from the suffering. He is very fortunate to have you there by his side.

May you be able to enjoy your time together, even if just to sit in his room and read to him. When the time comes, may his transition be a peaceful one and your journey back into the sunlight be short.

Take care.

[Faith1111 in reply to dmt1121]

Your words are comforting. Thank you for the nice reply

[cancerfox]

Terrible news proving that life is really unfair. Like Shakespeare's Macbeth says in Macbeth, "Life's but a walking shadow." If only everyone had an amazing sister like you, the world would be a much better place. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Bob.

[Faith1111 in reply to cancerfox]

Thank you for your kind words cancerfox

[garyjp9]

You and Bob have been so fortunate to have each other in this life. May you each find your own peace in the days to come. I will be praying for him, and you, and your families.

[Faith1111 in reply to garyjp9]

Thank you Gary. We appreciate the prayers

[benninger]

So very sorry for your loss.

[Faith1111 in reply to benninger]

Thank you benninger

[jfoesq]

I am so sorry to hear of this very sad news.

[Faith1111 in reply to jfoesq]

Thank you jfoesq

[j-o-h-n]

Tell Robert we all are pulling for him...and praying too. Faith you are a wonderful sister and I have been asking God to let me trade my brother for you. Bless you all....

j-o-h-n Friday 04/29/2022 12:28 AM DST

[Faith1111 in reply to j-o-h-n]

Haha. You always have a light hearted comment. You make me laugh! Thank you for all of your kind responses over the years

[cancerfox in reply to j-o-h-n]

I would trade my brother for a decent slice of pizza. Probably wouldn't get many offers, though.

[j-o-h-n in reply to cancerfox]

Oh you have one of those too... (remember murder is still illegal here in the US).....

Good Luck, Good Health and Good Humor.

j-o-h-n Friday 04/29/2022 7:42 PM DST

[Proflac]

So very sorry. You have been amazing through all this. Hoping for a pain free peaceful ending for your wonderful brother.

[Faith1111 in reply to Proflac]

Thank you Proflac

[Shooter1]

Sorry to hear it is now your brothers turn. We all know we will be there but fight until the fight is all worn out. Bless you and yours through this hard letting go time.

[Faith1111 in reply to Shooter1]

Thanks Shooter. It’s hard to shift gears

[Hidden]

Oh Faith? Bob at just 57 ? Whoah! Too young for this ! It hurts me greatly to see younger men than I suffering so much . It ain’t right . Love is the only answer to this disease gone bad !Youre by his side❤️ Mercy we pray for all ! I had only brothers .You the loving sister are precious . Lead him through .. Stay strong ! 🙏😔💔

[Faith1111 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you LuLu for the comforting words. I will be with him when his time comes

[Hidden]

No hurry young lady ! He’s with you always! This love is eternal!He needs you here living your life with joy! Thank you for sharing with us all . In this we are all human together . 💔🙏😔

[Neverstop]

So sorry to hear this. God bless.

[Faith1111 in reply to Neverstop]

Thank you so much Neverstop