Next Step, Hospice??

Posted by Pam (the inspiring mama) on Ilana's caringbridge website.

As some of you may know, we had a long chat with Ilana's hematologist, Dr. Reeder, last week. We know the physicians and their teams have been working tirelessly on trying to find an effective treatment for Ilana. Unfortunately the treatments they have tried so far have not worked. The physicians and their teams believe the lymphoma is still active and along with the side effects from the chemotherapy together this has caused a lot of neurological issues. Dr. Reeder recommended Hospice to us. Admittedly we were all taken back by this surprising recommendation. Even though this alternative may of crossed our minds from time to time, we thought it was still down the road. After much discussion, Ben, Arnie I decided this is a viable option at this time. Ilana's body needs a rest from the chemo, at the same time it would give Ilana some normalcy in her life again as it has been almost 3 months that she has been in the hospital. Ben would also have a chance to pursue some naturopathic treatments he has been researching. One of our cousins is a naturopath in New York. She has graciously given us her time, recommendations and guidance. Please don't take this decision to pursue Hospice in a way that we are giving up. Neither Ilana, Ben or the rest of the family are looking at this next step that way.
I will say that without a doubt, the last 10 months have been extremely tough. The only good thing is that when one of us feels down, the rest of the family is there to lift your spirits again and keep on going.

For now, we are working hard to stay positive and keep our day to day life in tact. We appreciate more that you know all the prayers and support we get from all of you.