Saturday, October 31, 2009

2nd Oncology Visit

I have been so delayed in keeping this blog up...but I know that I should for future reference.

I took Darby for her 2nd oncology visit on October 14th. Her lymphnodes are down, and she's feeling great. I was kinda nervous for our visit, didn't really know what to expect. Our original doctor, Dr. Scroggins, was no longer practicing at that particular vet office, so I was a little anxious as to what the "new" doctor was going to say.

He felt Darby's lymphnodes, and said that she was doing terrific. Since she did not have any clinical signs of swollen lymphnodes, well, that meant "remission". I was very happy to hear the prognosis, but at the same time, I was worried about still having to give her more chemo. He said that, the CCNU treatment was a 4 month cycle. Darby had only had one at the time, so I took a big gulp and took the next cycle with me.

My goal for my girl is to keep her healthy and happy.

The Journey thus far:
1. Accept the diagnosis for what it is
2. Inform those individuals that you can depend on
3. Build your pets strength. The journey ahead will be tough, the healthier your pet, the better they will endure treatment.
4. Find an oncologist in your area - consider your chemo treatment options
5. Fina a homeopathic / holistic vet - homeopathic remedies
6. Consider purchasing organic veggies and protein for your pet, plan out their diet everyday.
7. Start a supplement cycle
8. Keep your pet away from germy places, parks, areas that many dogs urinate, etc.
9. Last but not least, say a prayer for encouragement, a prayer for persistence, and a prayer for thanks......

Sunday, October 4, 2009

we are moving into week four and Darby is doing fabulous. duncan has also held up well. Darby's lymphnodes are down and almost all gone. the only ones that I can feel are those behind her knees. well don't know if dogs have knees, but none the less, those lymphnodes are still there, but relatively small. I mentioned at the beginning of the week that we were going to go RAW...Well, I haven't convinced myself yet. therefore, she is still eating steamed food. on a side note, my friend tracey suggested that I cook for both darby and myself at the same time. She is eating people food. as a matter of fact, the talapia I steamed for her yesterday was actually very delisious.

I think we have a routine now. we have our 5 a.m. routine, and our 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. routine. this whole experience is teaching me more than I expected.

First and foremost, the importance of eating organic and fresh veggies and fruits. We are what we put into our body. Can't say that I am good 24/7 but I can say that I give certain foods a second thought these days.

I want to write more, but I'm tired....write more tomorrow..