A very warm welcome to the forum Jojo1976 although I'm sorry to hear about your mother-in-law. This must be a very difficult and confusing time.

Unfortunately this is a question only her medical team can answer so if you have her permission, you could try discussing this further with them or GP. The carers and district nurses that are looking after her may be able to shed some light on this as well so do make sure you have a chat with them about this when you can.

I'm sure some of our members who have been in this position with their loved ones will share their experiences and advice with you soon but if you'd like to talk things through with one of our cancer nurses you can do so on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m.

We're thinking of you Jojo1976 and sending all our strength and support your way.

Kind regards,

Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

Hi

I'm sorry to hear of your MIL's diagnosis. My Mum had peritoneal cancer ovarian origin and her illness also caused bowel blockage and vomiting. When she was advised that her condition was terminal and that chemotherapy was no longer effective she survived just a further 8 weeks which was spent initially at home then at the local hospice where she passed away. The illness initially waxed and waned with regards to being able to pass stools and having better days, mainly because the medications, including steroids, controlled some of the inflammatory process and supressed the nausea and pain. 

We were advised by the palliative care team that if you can see deterioration in terms of weeks then that usually is an indicator that the patient has weeks left, if in days then days left and similarly with hours. Take things a day at a time, if she has good fortune to have a day of energy and positivity then make use of it and be prepared that some days she may not have the same capabilities. 

I wish you strength as a family to cope with the future and treasure the time you have with your MIL.