My uncle has cancer; prayers please

MormonMama · #1 (**permalink**) 09-26-2009, 09:21 PM

My uncle was diagnosed a few months ago with an internal form of skin cancer (I didn't even know you could get skin cancer on the inside). Two months ago he had to have surgery to remove a brain tumor. But other than that, he seemed to be doing well.

But this week he started losing feeling and strength in his legs, to the point that he could no longer stand up at all. They did more tests and found that the cancer has spread to his spine. He is now in the hospital and we have no idea at this point what his prognosis is, but it's not looking very good.

He's only 62. I'm asking for prayers on his behalf. He is not LDS (he's not religious at all, to my knowledge), so a priesthood blessing is out, but I would very much appreciate any prayers for him.

Thanks guys.

MormonMama · #2 (**permalink**) 11-03-2009, 09:16 AM

Just wanted to post an update. My uncle has been moved to a hospice facility. He is now paralyzed from the neck down. They're saying a month, maybe less. Please continue to keep us in your prayers, and if anyone is going to the temple soon and wouldn't mind putting his name on the prayer roll, please PM me.

pam · #3 (**permalink**) 11-03-2009, 09:18 AM

Is he LDS and has anyone given him a transition prayer?

MormonMama · #4 (**permalink**) 11-03-2009, 09:27 AM

No, he is not LDS. He is not of any faith that I know of.

And I'm embarrassed to admit that I've never heard of a transition prayer.

pam · #5 (**permalink**) 11-03-2009, 11:46 AM

I don't know if it's technically called that though I've heard it used a few times. Basically a prayer for someone to let them know that their family will be fine..that they aren't to worry..etc etc.

candyprpl · #6 (**permalink**) 11-03-2009, 01:05 PM

Prayers for your uncle and your family.

FairChild · #7 (**permalink**) 11-04-2009, 09:08 PM

Tell your uncle about having hands laid on your head and what a blessing can do. Ask him if he would like one and if he does, then arrange for him to have one. Give him the choice after he has informed knowledge. My nephew died almost 2 months ago and my mother died less than 2 weeks ago. Hospice was in both homes. They were a huge help and comfort. I wish you and your family much comfort and peace at this difficult time. FC

MormonMama · #8 (**permalink**) 11-04-2009, 09:46 PM

He's no longer coherent enough to be told anything. He's basically just drugged into a stupor until he finally passes, which they're saying will probably be within the next few days.

MormonMama · #9 (**permalink**) 11-06-2009, 09:20 AM

My uncle passed away peacefully last night, surrounded by family. Throughout the evening his breathing became shallower and shallower with longer and longer pauses in between each breath. My aunt was rubbing his arm and told him that it was all right, we were all there and we loved him, and it was okay to go if he wanted to. Right after that we noticed a marked decrease in his breathing, and not long after that his breathing finally just stopped.

While we are very sad to lose him at such a young age, I also felt such a feeling of peace at the time. He was in so much pain during the last weeks of his life, and was completely paralyzed from the neck down, which he hated. He was ready to go. It was his choice to go to hospice.

So we are saddened by the loss, but grateful that he is no longer in pain. He apparently went when he was ready to go, his last bit of control over his own life, and that was good to know. Our family is strong together, and my aunt is a strong woman with a lot of support.

Thank you everyone for your prayers and good thoughts. They have been deeply appreciated.

pam · #10 (**permalink**) 11-06-2009, 09:43 AM

My sincere condolences to you and your family.