What happens in the final weeks and days?

My Grandad is terminally ill with prostate cancer.. he is getting weaker by the day.. ive Searched online looking for a breakdown of what typically happens in the last few weeks and days regarding symptoms but i cant find a decent website or article that describes it clearly. I know its different for everyone but whats typical? His voice has started to get very weak is this an indication of how much time he has left? Hes having one ensure drink per day along with milk and water. No pain meds of any kind thankfully he has no pain.

Parents
  • Hi there, 

    my dad passed away of prostate cancer on 4th December.  I was exactly the same as you looking for answers online and getting frustrated.  Believe me when I say you will know when they are passing away.  With my dad his voice got lower around a month before he passed he started with severe agitation and secretions around a week before he passed and in the 3 days before he stopped eating and drinking, and was sedated due to the agitation.  Before he passed away I noticed his breathing went quiet (there was no death rattle) and then it took a while to get his breath, and when he took his last I was with him and it was peaceful.  Just spend as much time as you can with your grandad and talk to him as he can still hear you.  You might find your experience is different but this was mine.  I wish you and your family all the best and I hope Iv given you some insight.  Look after yourself too as we sometimes neglect ourselves xxx

Reply
  • Hi there, 

    my dad passed away of prostate cancer on 4th December.  I was exactly the same as you looking for answers online and getting frustrated.  Believe me when I say you will know when they are passing away.  With my dad his voice got lower around a month before he passed he started with severe agitation and secretions around a week before he passed and in the 3 days before he stopped eating and drinking, and was sedated due to the agitation.  Before he passed away I noticed his breathing went quiet (there was no death rattle) and then it took a while to get his breath, and when he took his last I was with him and it was peaceful.  Just spend as much time as you can with your grandad and talk to him as he can still hear you.  You might find your experience is different but this was mine.  I wish you and your family all the best and I hope Iv given you some insight.  Look after yourself too as we sometimes neglect ourselves xxx

Children
No Data