Stormy - pathology update

[Rich]

Stormy has squamous cell carcinoma, the worst of the three alternatives. He has three to five months depending - there is a pain management medication that has some anti-tumor properties that we will get him on right away. The oncologist and I talked at length on the phone. Radiation treatment at U of MO would be around $3000, Stormy would have to live there 3-5 weeks and this type of tumor is not very responsive.  We might get a year, but she said that it was "pretty extensive" and if it were her dog, she didn't think she would put him through it. We'll be going to see his regular vet and talk about what to do and when - I know when the time comes, I won't be thinking very clearly.

Deb and I want to thank everyone for their support and prayers.  Something like this is never easy, but to know that there are others who know what your pain is like and who are thinking/praying for you means a lot.  We're going to love and enjoy our boy as much as we can in the time we have left and commit ourselves to not letting him suffer needlessly and have the courage to help him to the bridge when the time comes.

[Doxherding Karen]

"Now I know I have a heart, because it's breaking." 

Tin Woodman
The Wizard of Oz

[Sandishooligans]

Love him!  Snuggle him!  Cuddle him!  He'll tell you when it's time.  I think we'd all like a turn at smooching on our sweet Stormy.  He is quite a guy.

[MyLittleBoo]

    Oh, Rich and Deb, this is absolutely heart- wrenching....   Although I am at a complete loss for words, please know that you and your babies will be in my thoughts and prayers daily...  I will light a candle every night for you guys....  Be strong little "battleship"...      Emmy sends LOTS of love and puppy kisses for all of you....   *hugs & prayers*   
         

[Barb]

My heart goes out to you - the next months will be tough - but I know you will go to the ends of the earth to show Stormy how much hs is loved.  We are here for you - please give your gentle giant a soft belly rub from me.  Hugs to you and Deb -

[Kevin]

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Stormy.  We are also sending virtual belly rubs out to him.  Take care, Kevin & Jeri 

[Kari]

We are thinking of your family and have you all in our prayers 

[PattyInAK]

We'll be here for you thru the whole thing.  And I know you will spoil your boy to the max, he deserves it.  This really does affect all of us.  I recently lost my Misty Girl and I found I still have room to feel a lot of heart break over Stormy.  When someone has a sick doggie, its like we all have a sick doggie.  When people here say they know what you are going thru, you know its the truth.

[Valerie]

I am so sorry- reading your post broke my heart.
I will be praying for the best for you and stormy.