How conscious is a person about to die from cancer?

When I was a nursing student, we were told that the last thing to go is hearing. In fact, hearing is keener near death. She's not responsive because she's on so many pain meds, I'm sure she's on a high dose of morphine. In all honesty, I don't think she is suffering because of her medications. I want you to know this and it's very important. Go to your mother and talk to her. I was in a coma after my fourth child was born. I couldn't respond or react to anything but I heard everything that was being said. I even heard the Dr tell my husband that he didn't expect me to survive. Inside, I was screaming. Your mother may not respond to what you say but please, let her know you're there. It's so important for dying patient to know that someone they love is with them. Don't deprive her of the love that she gave to you. She's not sleeping all but 25 min. It may seem that way. but she is most likely alert in her mind and she's screaming too. She will hear you. I know she will. I know what it's like to watch your mother fade away. We stayed by my mother's side constantly for the last week of her life. She was in a coma but we sang to her, talked to her, even laid in the bed with her. When my mom died 3 yrs ago, she knew her children were there. I'm not saying for you to do all those things. My mom was cut-up and always joking around which is why we sang etc. So go see her. You have to look beyond the weight issue and jaundice. Picture her the way she was. It's hard, believe me I know, but you will have no doubts when her time comes. You can hold your head up and people will know you were with her to the end. Gosh, I wish I could put my arms around you right now. I am so sorry you have to see this, go through it too. but she is your mom and she was always with you when you young and sick. Now it's your turn to return that love. Talk to her like you always did. She won't respond, but she'll hear you. God bless both of you.