"The doctor, Ira Byock, is a nationally recognized expert in palliative care, a specialty aimed at improving the quality of life for patients with serious illness."

"If the disease continues to progress, the patient is likely to die, he said. But patients may also be able to gain the weight and strength necessary to prolong their lives.

"'We’re trying to change that trajectory,' said Dr. Byock. 'We’re not ready to give up.'"