So today we were told my 72 year old mother has Epithelioid Mesothelioma. The very sad thing is, they told us she is in stage 4. I have no idea what this cancer is and what to expect. My mother and I are like best friends and I am not ready to let her go. I know I am going to have to come to grips with that, because all that I have read it sounds like she does not have long to live. I don't know what to expect, she starts chemo next wednesday but I am so worried about that, I am so afraid I am going to lose her because of the treatment and not because of the cancer. My mom is a severe asmatic and her health is not that great. I think for the longest time all the doctors thought it was her asthma that was the cause of her shortness of breath and all. I am just wondering if they could have caught this a long time ago. Anyway I just wanted to have somewhere I could ask question and have support, because I think I am going to need it!!  I am so glad this is here and that maybe I can get some answers and support.

Hi Hilary,
My husband was diagnosed with Meso 15 months ago, but it took 5 months of research to finally come up with the Meso diagnosis.  So, we've been dealing with this desease for 20 months.  It is not easy for a caregiver to watch how this desease progresses.  Remember each Meso patient is different, enjoy every day that you have with your mother.  Try not to focus on the end...focus on what's happening now. 

If you want to read more about my husband and our battle go to the members listing and look up my name (I believe its on page 15), from there you can read all my posts.  My husband is still fighting, last Tuesday (April 27,) the mesothelioma has started growing more aggresively.  He will start chemo again this week.

Every day is a blessing. 
Charlotte

hi ya.my own dad was diagnosed 29th november 09 and passed 1 jun 2010. all the treatment he recieved just left us thinkin maybe it was a waste of time getting it. as the chemo left him very sick. we cared for him at home and when the end was coming we just knew. he started talking bout his past alot and his awareness was very bad. but we had the most amazing 24 hours with him before he went. how it all ended was just a really loud deep breath and he just went there was no pain for him which i was happy about. if you would like o ask me any questions feel free too. all the best grace ireland x