An unexpected turn

Dad is still in the hospital. His condition is not improving. Things have taken a very unexpected turn and the doctors have indicated that the cancer is back in his lungs and there is some swelling in the brain. There are no further treatment options for him to improve his current condition. After 5 days on anti-biotics the pneumonia has not gotten any better and his condition is stable but not good. He is not in any pain and has moments when he is awake and alert. He sleeps a good deal of the time and is comfortable. We are all reeling trying to understand and accept this unexpected news. Two weeks ago we were thinking he would be having the stereotactic surgery and then possbily going to Arizona. These things are no longer an option. We met with the hospital Doctor last night and after consulting with Dr. Flynn we have decided to move dad home and admit him into hospice care. Dad's good friend Duane Everson spent time with the family and with dad last night explaining the situation to dad. He seemed to understand his condition and realize that the end of his life is near. No one can say for certain, but it appears that his condition will not improve. Dad is aware of this and reports that he is ready to die. In fact, he wonders what all the fuss is about and why we are all hanging around the hospital when we should be at work. As you know, it is his nature to be totally practical and cut right to the heart of the matter. We feel that having him at home is the best thing for him and he will be getting excellent care with our local hospice team. I know these nurses and I know they will make sure he remains comfortable and pain free. This is not an easy thing to write about and I am sorry to be so blunt. There is no easy way to report this turn of events. It has been a 180 degree turn in a matter of a few days and we are as shocked as we can be. We hope you will continue to pray for dad, mom and our entire family as we face what lies ahead. We will all be gathered out at the farm this weekend surrounding him with love and attention.
Mom is still in shock in some ways, but also dealing with the situation in practical terms. This is not easy for her and she has been by his side every day during the time he has been hospitalized. She is tired but strong. She is relieved to be taking him home and getting out of the sterile environment that comes with being in the hospital. We hope to have him home and settled in by late afternoon Friday.
I will continue to post as we make this move to get him home and update you on his condition.