Hi Carl,
I am so sorry to hear about your chi. I will say that I agree with the above statements. The only thing that I will add, is it may be an option for you to get a second opinion.
The last DVM I worked for was not a very good one. Not so much in my eyes (I can't judge a dvm as I am not one) but he even kept saying he thinks his "glory" days are over.
One thing I learned when I was a vet tech was always get a second opinion (at least with the larger issues as the one you are facing) a good DVM should always accually recommend that you do. Sometimes different doctors can have different outlooks, maybe on lifespan or treatments etc.
Just maybe something to think about.
I send my best wishes to you and your family, and I'm always around if you ever want to talk
Thanks
Rusty