You already know that we’re getting a puppy. He’ll be here in less than a week—Cibola Double Dare Ewe , call name “DDare” and if all goes well, Maggie and Winn will welcome him home.
What I haven’t told too many people until I could do it without crying, is that Maggie is in the process of being diagnosed with lymphoma. On Tuesday her canine chiropractor noticed swollen lymph nodes. I was shocked—I have my hands on the dogs all the time, especially in high tick season, but Dr. Heather assured me they can blow up overnight. Since it was so sudden, I called her regular vet, and we got in a few hours later for a needle aspiration. While waiting for the lab results, Dr. Laurie arranged for a consult across town with an internal medicine vet. They were terrific and we had an appointment right away. Then, the cytology came back “suspicious” and so we opted to have them remove a lymph node, and now we’re again awaiting results so that we can get a diagnosis, and if necessary, start treatment right away. Maggie is asymptomatic, in fact she looks and feels great!
So on Friday, I spent the afternoon reading about training puppies, and then reading about treating cancer, until I filled my head. Quite the juxtaposition.
Maggie and I are all set to begin this new path. The good news is that this is a treatable cancer, with good odds for a lengthy remission. She’s otherwise healthy, a smaller dog, and FEMALE—all factors on her favor. And she is Maggie—this is no ordinary dog, after all! We are in it together. We’re ready to heal!
I am not fond of roller coasters, but have learned to not look anywhere but ahead when on that ride. I’m going to do my best to not look down during this one. I want all of you to help by keeping us in your thoughts, and think positive. Thanks.
5 comments:
We will definately think healthy thoughts for Maggie, and for you too.
Sending lots of strong positive thoughts for the smoothest possible ride to remission!
The dog-gone crew is rooting for you and Maggie!
Adrienne
Emma and Zoey
and the Sascha-cat
Hi Chris,
I am sorry to hear about Maggie - it is very hard to have a sick dog, but it's good to know that she feels good, and that you have caught this so early!! She will do great - she has the best support: YOU! (And, of course, all of us sending positive thoughts to you!)
Dr. Heather caught Sage's early too and he had great luck fighting it. I hope that Maggie has the same luck too. DDare will keep you all busy too so you won't have much time to think long on the cancer. :) Thinking good healing thoughts for you two!
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