As of Tuesday – July 10, 2012 – I officially became a Tripawd dog… and boy, I’m happy about it… I feel relieved to not have that ‘excess baggage’ on my leg! But I’ve heard Mommy telling Daddy that some ‘biopsy’ came back as Chondroblastic Osteosarcoma (which mommy originally just got ‘osteosarcoma’ with my first bone biopsy) … whatever that is… but my mommy tells me I’m amazing because as of today I have gone 966 days since I was first ‘diagnosed’ …. Mommy was so sad when they took my Xray – you see, my mom is a Veterinary Technician – and she knew once she took my Xray that what she saw was concerning…
All I know is that mommy has taken me to many specialist and I’ve met so many fun people! She originally was trying to ‘save’ my leg because when I was 8 months old, we found out that I had severe hip dysplasia. When I turned three – my right hind knee turned into a ‘luxating patella’ which mommy had surgery done (which failed) – but because I had to put more weight on my front limbs – the same week of my surgery I started limping on my front leg! Low and behold – there was my bigger issue in my front leg!
I had a bone biopsy almost as soon as mommy found out. The biopsy came back just saying ‘osteosarcoma’ – so mommy took me to a special place called New England Veterinary Oncology Group – where it was advised for me to get pallative radiation on my leg and do an experimental treatment called ‘pamidronate’ which mommy would give me in my vein. They did not want me to become a tripawd at that time because they said I would only be with mommy a maximum of 6 months – and they would rather me be comfortable. Mommy did everything for me – and I did everything to stay with her… and our bond became even more strong that it has ever been…. I knew I had to stay around for her… February of this year she lost what would’ve been my first baby (human) brother… I was there for her and couldn’t think of a better place to be…
Anywho… Over the years of me thriving, and receiving my treatments – my right front leg was starting to become deformed and I was already mainly walking on three legs. I was still happy as can be and getting around just fine. (I would ever wrestle with my furry brother (Jameson) and sister (Morgan)) Mommy noticed that my leg began bothering me and I held it up more than using it – so she spoke with a surgical specialist – and in the same day – BAM I had surgery!
I woke up quite relieved that the weight of my sore leg was gone.. and I surprised all the doctors when I stood right up and walked outside for the first time BY MYSELF! I am a firm believer that my leg was just a spare – I didn’t really need it. Anywho – thanks for taking the time to read my blog – they’ll be much more to come… Mommy also welcomes ANY questions about ANY of my treatments that anyone may have! She tells me I’ll be going back up to see my friends at Nevog again real soon… but in the meantime I’m keeping her on her toes (I pulled my drain out! Hehe)… She was so mad when she saw me trying to eat it! I’m off to snooze in mommy’s bed – good night all!
Miller, you are AMAZING! Wow. To survive that long with a tumor is just unreal. I’m so glad you’re feeling good again, and even gladder that you decided to join us here. We would love to hear more about your journey, so blog away!
P.S. I’m so glad you could be there for your mommy at such a tough time. {{{hugs}}} to both of you.