Caring for terminally ill- what to do?

My long-time friend has Advanced AIDS, and had nowhere to turn, so I had him move in with me. He has no financial resources, so he desperately needed my help.

Lately, he has deteriorated to the point that I don't know what to do anymore. I'm in WAY over my head, and have nobody to turn to for help.

What is the best thing for me to do? I've talked to his doctor, and he says he has no answers for me. I am pretty much on my own, and I have no idea what I am doing. I'm to the point where I feel like I'm not helping him, and I'm not doing him any favors by keeping him in my home anymore. I'm having to work two jobs to pay for his medications and treatments, so I'm not even here that much anymore. There are days when I wonder if he's still going to be alive when I get home.

What do I do in this situation? I'm so scared, and I'm so alone. He begs me not to put him in a hospital, so that is out of the question... Or is it?

Call to find out if there is a hospice care center near you. The people there can help you both- and provide the care your friend needs. He won't be alone, there will be plenty of staff to help him and others to visit with if he's able. You can still visit him, and when the end does come, there will be support for you as well. And if all else fails, yes- it may be at a point where the hospital is the best place for him. Your friend is more than likely afraid he will be dumped and left to die alone. It will take a lot of reassurance on your part to convince he that's not what you have in mind. But even in the hospital, there will be people to help you both. Good luck to both of you.

call your local hospice and see if they can help you set up arrangements or offer you suggestions as to where to turn for help.

I whole-heartedly agree, call a hospice. I think they have volunteers.

First and foremost, I admire your kindness and love you've been showing to your friend. I don't know you personally, but i can tell that you are a friend in the truest sense of the word. Your friend found a true jewel in this world and that's YOU.

So, for your question let's start first with how you communicate with your friend at this time. Since he/she is terminally-ill, you should be very careful how you talk to him/her. Be patient. Show him/her importance. Don't make him/her feel that he/she's being a pain in the a**. Make him feel that he/she is loved.

Check him every once in a while everytime you're out. Maybe putting him in a hospital could be best for you and your friend. Hospitals have the facilities, medicines, and healthcare providers that will take care of your friend. Even if he/she is in the hospital, visit him regularly so he won't feel that you have forgotten him. Also, don't forget to pray. It never fails.

Take care...
I will pray for you and your friend.