*Sorry, long post.*

Good evening, everyone. The doctors spoke with Ellen last night and unfortunately, it is not looking good for Ate Marie.

Since our last update, Ate Marie underwent anti-fungal treatment for the infection found in her lungs. Unfortunately, this has contributed to the acute and progressive failure of her kidneys. The anti-fungal treatment has been stopped, but fungal infections are highly aggressive and will further progress without the treatment. Her most recent chest xray also showed a new bacteria which should be treated with antibiotics; however, she is unable to receive them because of her failing kidneys (antibiotics are usually cleared through the kidneys and excreted through the urine).

Her lungs are already filled with cancer metastasis, causing her episodic difficulty of breathing and decrease in oxygen saturation. The doctors have been unable to wean her off the mechanical ventilator since she was re-intubated and it is highly unlikely that she will be taken off it.

Ate Marie has been undergoing hemodialysis since Tuesday for her failing kidneys. She has very little urine output which means her kidneys are shutting down. Without dialysis, she could become septic and contribute to multi-organ failure. However, because of the dialysis, among many other things, she is unable to keep her blood pressure above normal and is heavily dependent on medications to keep it up. If the meds were to be withdrawn, her blood pressure will trend down quickly, and her heart will stop.

She has also been vomiting constantly and producing very little stool, causing the doctors to consider an obstruction in her gastrointestinal tract. It could be another tumor or a mechanical problem but they will need further imaging to confirm.

Basically, Ate Marie’s cancer has spread to various parts of her body (her lumbar spine, her lungs, and possibly her gastrointestinal tract). She is very unstable and is progressively becoming more lethargic. Her doctors continue to manage each of the problems as they come, but the goal is not towards cure, just to keep her as comfortable as possible. She is still on a steady dose of morphine to manage her pain.

We continue to request for more prayers for the Samson sisters during this very difficult time. To everyone who has extended their thoughtful messages, efforts, and financial assistance, they are all very much appreciated!

Should there be anyone who still wish to contribute, Ellen and her family will be very grateful. Thank you and God bless us all.