I think the hospice is very important, because the kids, and you, need a way to come to terms with this situation. Our society has gotten to the point where we avoid dealing with, or even thinking about, death--and it leaves most of us unsure of what to do, to say, or even to feel when we are confronted with the inevitable.

I am not a Buddhist, but Buddhism places a lot of emphasis on preparing to deal with and accept death. There is a lot of their stuff on the web, and your thread has made me start to read a bit, and reflect on how I should start talking about this stuff with my kids.

I wish you the best, and hope that you find a positive way to deal with this very difficult situation. My thoughts and prayers are with you.Please keep us posted on what happens.

Ted