September 20, 2007 : Sad news from home – my mom is very ill

Unfortunately, I have just recd sad news from home. My mom is very ill. The cancer has returned to her lungs and the doctor says the tumor is very aggressive. They have told her they cannot stop it and she has about 3 months to live. Needles to say, when I called her last week and heard this news, I was stunned. I could not tell anyone or talk about it for the first few days. Finally, I told a few friends here in town and also called my daughter. She has been a great source of strength and support. She is taking care of things in the states and Peace Corps has approved my flight to Phoenix to see my mom and say goodbye.

Peace Corps gave me 2 weeks to visit her and said I could request additional time when I arrive in the states. So we will see how that goes…..I was really freaked out at first, but I am okay now. My daughter has been great - supportive, helpful, and reliable. I asked Peace Corps to schedule my flight about Oct 10-12. I would like to be in PHX on or before Oct 15. I will be in the states the last half of October.

My mom will be in hospice care which means she will finish her days in a pleasant home environment with qualified medical care rather than in a hospital.