Wow, quite the gut wrenching story. I still remember the phone call from my partner saying she has cancer and then our fight to 'beat' it. This was much easier than what it sounds these people are going through. I guess the expression is true, if you think you have it rough, just look around you.
I try to remember this when I have a shitty day and it does help. I have a brother that suffered some brain damage over 20 years ago so I have a daily reminder that my life could always be worse.
My heart goes out to these (and anybody else truly suffering) people.