Mom has finally(!) given me permission to tell everyone what is going on.

Last August, she was given a diagnosis of Stage 4 (metastatic/terminal) lung cancer which had already spread to her lymph nodes and bones. She decided not to undergo any further treatment, choosing instead to enjoy whatever time she had left.

We have been fortunate that she has had six relatively good months since her diagnosis, but her body is starting to tell us that the end is near. Mom was moved to an assisted living facility last week, and we are in the process of enlisting hospice care for her. Paul and Sarah are holding down the fort at home in Texas so that I can concentrate on caring for both of my parents on the final leg of this journey.

I am currently staying with Mom 24/7 so that Dad can be free to take care of things in town and around the house, as well as getting some much-needed rest. Mom is comfortable right now, and I am cherishing every moment that we have left together.