This is particularly for NannaB or anyone it can help. On Good Friday my husband was stable and actually took communion from his Hospice Chaplain. Sunday was okay, too (remember, this is with all the limitations he already has). On Monday I met with his music therapist and we could not wake him up. By the next morning he was still unresponsive, had a high fever and labored breathing. His respirations have continued at about 45-50 per minute. Small amounts of morphine seemed to calm him down but made no change in the rate of respirations. He made it through the night which was amazing. But the end is obviously near.
We all know the end is coming but I never expected such a change virtually overnight. Perhaps his brain suffered another clot. We don't know. His body was so strong even though he could not walk or do anything for himself. This crazy, awful disease just has no common path. I pray for God's will because I know recovery is not possible and he has been trapped in a useless body for some time knowing what is happening to him. I just hope he can exit this life calmly and without distress.
NannaB, I know we were comparing the likeness of our husband's disease process. Who could have predicted the path Bill's took. I pray for you and your spouse and all those family members and patients struggling with this terrible disease..
Caroline