I'm struggling...

Iris,

Thanks so much for your unending support and prayers. 

I am sorry to hear that your FIL passed already. I a, sure this is not at all easy for you. My heart goes out to you and Ben and the rest of all of those that love him.
Good for you in not pushing your MIL in any particular direction but helping her see what her options are for her situation. Shame on her daughter for not seeing how important it is for her to keep her dog. Right now she needs her beloved pet and it would be cruel to take it away right now. I hope you are able to help your MIL find the best place for her to be that includes keeping her furry friend.
I am sorry you are stressing out so much. But maybe posting here and seeing how much we care for you and Ben helps a bit. I know it would help me if I was going through something. Try to at least get some RTD protein drinks that you like so you can just grab one when you know your body needs something. It may help curtail the weight loss or at least prevent muscle loss. I want you to stay healthy so that when you come out the other end of all of of this you can get back to routines and not have to rebuild your own health. Take care.

Hi Ann,

It does help to talk to my friends... even if I have to do it virtually and it really does help to know that you are here and care. 

We are all doing the best we can to work through things. I know that everyone has my MILs best interests at heart and we all have to find ways to work through all of this without hurting one another. We are working on it and we'll get there. We've been friends and family for more than 35 years and I'm sure we will find our way. 

Thanks again,

Hi Barb,
I hope things are getting better for you and your family.
My concern is your MIL's dog I know it sounds silly to some but my heart is with the animals.
In my opinion your MIL's dog is all that is left of the life she has shared with your FIL and not to allow the dog to go with her is sad.
What kind of dog is is it?
If the dog needs a home I will take him or her.
I dont know if you could ship him or what just let me know what I can do.
Also all pedigrees have rescues.
                                        Annie

Hi Annie,

We buried my FIL today. I think that fences are being mended. 

I still don't know what we will be doing to support my MIL in the long term, but do not worry about her dog. We will be sure that he has a home. I appreciate your offer very much.