It was just a kid when he started and played the children in his yard with its small cars and trucks tip. But his sand was asbestos blue …
In December 1999, my husband and I were going to play lawn bowls when I was aware of his shortness of breath. I was surprised and concerned when he said that he lived in a few times. In this faith, that such infection on the chest, I made the appointment to another doctor.
Chest X-ray showed fluid in the lungs, more than two liters, which was drained, the relief of Brian, but we had to wait for hard results.Through pathology on the Internet, I know a few terms that may be responsible for the fluid in the lungs, they are: asbestos-related diseases. Brian lived in Wittenoom, as a child, and I was afraid of his diagnosis. Many do not want to disturb him unnecessarily, I do not mention my fears for him. I prayed that he had pleurisy or pneumonia, but the results showed that the pathology of cancer cells are present.
When Brian finally received his diagnosis, my worst nightmare come true. He pleural mesothelioma, a terminal lung cancer caused by inhaling asbestos dust. We found that it is impossible to imagine that the disease is the result of Brian inhaling asbestos dust as a child, and fell asleep for 45 years before his death.
We’re still in shock when, without preamble, the young doctor gave his prognosis. Were his exact words: “From three to nine months, I think.” He could say that it surprised me so numb His complete lack of compassion is not encouraged, even from the comfort of small tears, I felt as if Brian and .. I was shot and from that moment we were waiting on the wane.
Undoubtedly, mortally wounded. We suffered shock, disbelief, anger, helplessness and despair, in fact, all the symptoms of pain you feel when a loved one dies. Once again we were left without control over our lives. This time, however, there was no light at the end of the tunnel. Our trip began with an incurable disease.
For decisions in life married a deep love for Brian and my determination saw us through many difficult tests. I found it hard to believe that nothing can be done to save his life and began work on the Internet for information about mesothelioma, while praying for a miracle, hoping for a successful surgery or a doctor had to find someone of his recovery.
It was sad to discover that for Brian there were no miracles, but I learned a lot and it helped me to accept that he was dying. With my approval came a fierce determination to ease his burden. I went to experience information about mesothelioma and the pain and symptoms to look for Brian because of disease progression. So, I came to the importance of pain and symptom management to understand and realize that although I could not stop Brian from dying – I could help him live.
My knowledge about managing pain and symptoms, which allowed me to communicate with Brian and the type of pain he felt and the intensity of pain to understand. I was able to work hand in hand with their doctors, their pain and symptoms under control. As my efforts resulted in his quality of life, I lost my sense of helplessness and gained strength.
Together we achieved for Brian, the quality of life few thought possible, given the nature of his illness. Testament, Brian survived for two years despite his prognosis of 3 to 9 months. Remained active and alert, drove his car for 18 months after diagnosis, but not in bed until three short days before his death.
Courageous battle with mesothelioma, Brian ended December 24, 2001 he died at his home with his family. He was 54.
0 Comments.