http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/kilikini

*******************************
Her physical condition is beginning to deteriorate. Allan says that she
is receiving 3L of fluid daily and her output is about 1L. This is
causing water retention. Allan says that her hands are nearly twice
their normal size. Her kidneys are failing. Allan asked the doctors,
hypothetically, if a liver was available for transplant, would she make
it. The doctors told him flat out she would not survive the surgery. The
doctors will prescribe no pain medication for her because it will
aggravate her condition. Allan said that the doctors met with him and
Christy's family. All questions were answered at that time for Christy's
mother and sister. Allan said that Christy's family has been wonderful
through all of this. Very supportive and caring and that he has been
grateful they have been there. I am a little unclear on this part but
I'll do the best I can. During the family/doctor conference the question
of Christy's living will came up. There were questions from Christy's
family whether or not to remove the ventilator. When the tube is removed
Allan has been told by the medical professionals that Christy will most
probably go into respiratory failure. At that point her time with us
will be short. Allan had some alone time with Christy. He made certain
Christy understood what he was telling her. He explained to her that
death was almost certain when the tube was removed. After it is taken
out she will have a very short time. He made it clear to Christy that he
understood her feelings and that according to her living will she would
want the tube to be removed. He wanted to know if that is what she
wanted. He told her to take plenty of time to think about it. She
indicated to him she was not ready. Allan's voice was audibly relieved
when he was relating this to me. Allan says he's hoping for a miracle.
At this point the medical professionals have done just about all they
can do for Christy. With a heavy heart I have to say that we need to
prepare ourselves for the worst and hope/pray for the miracle.

<Edit>

There was initial confusion concerning her signing a living will and/or
a DNR under duress. I explained to her family that both had been done at
an attorneys office while she was still fully functional.

The attorney was very sympathetic and she waived her fee, telling us to
go get some ice cream and celebrate.

What Christy signed that morning in ICU was a release form for the
ventilator.
*********************************


:-(

--
Peter Lucas
Brisbane
Australia