I got a call from the pulmonologist yesterday regarding my mom’s CT scan.  Her NSIP scarring is a little worse.  Believed to be from some allergen or other exposure earlier in life as opposed to smoking( which she did for decades).  However, her breathing function is fine. Doctor and I jointly ruled out an open lung biopsy to determine the cause.  Mom has not only signed a DNR but has stated she doesn’t want major stuff done in the event she is  incapacitated.   I asked the doctor is this is the cause of her pain she been mentioning and the doctor said no.  No treatment needed at this time, just watch and see.  

I went to the patient portal to read the entire CT report.  There was something there that the pulmonologist didn’t mention.  A small benign hepatic cyst.   They must be making a presumption of benign because she sure hasn’t had any biopsies since this is the first I’ve heard of it.  I’ve sent a message to her PCP asking if this could be causing her pain and if he wants to see her before the late March wellness visit. 

M1 - what can you tell me about hepatic cysts and could this be the cause of her pain?  The pain is in the area of the gallbladder / but she no longer has a gallbladder. 

M1 - Thank you.  

It is indeed hard to decide on what to call the doctor about and what  not to.  It’s similar to when my kids were small and I was trying to guess just how serious any illness was.   Especially since she’s already said  she doesn’t want her life prolonged just so she can die of dementia. 

Dear QBC,  I'm happy that M1 was able to shed some light on this situation for you. I realize how difficult it is trying to make the best choices for our LO's comfort while trying to follow their wishes as closely as possible. When I received a copy of momma's health care directive, I asked our hospice RN to go over it with me. I wanted to be certain her wishes were being carried out as she wanted. It was a huge relief for me.

I deeply appreciate both of you for the encouragement and knowledge you have shared with me. Sending you both peace.

Sincerely,

abc123

abc, Thank you. .  It’s nice to hear from you.  I hope your dad isn’t giving you as much trouble as he was.

M1 - I got a message from the PCP telling me the same  thing you did.  He did say that he’d be happy to see her about her pain   

I had to laugh because she told me today when I saw her  that she now thinks the pain is caused from overdoing yoga class.  My spouse and I are going on vacation this week so I told the doctor I’d call when I got back if she mentioned the pain again.  She showed me a crochet project she’s been doing, and it is  going well. First time she’s attempted crochet in over 3 years.   

Step-dad is extremely tired these days.   He’s had COPD ( since 2004) heart issues ( almost as long( and thyroid cancer in his lungs ( 2013) for a long time.  I think it’s just the natural progression, as does the PCP.  He won’t use his oxygen like he should.  He has  already got previously scheduled follow up appointments with the cardiology NP and the cancer doctor for February.  I think this is going to be a rough year for him.