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Cat Forum / Cat Anecdotes / September 2005Betty's oncology visit
Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was listening... I asked that Betty's life be spared. In return, I offer my own life. A life for a life is fair, isn't it? It's not that I don't love my life. I want to see the sun rise, and I want to have children and watch them grow. But I'll never see a sunrise that is as pretty as Betty, and my purely hypothetical babies don't have priority over my current furry baby. So her life is more important than mine. Kill me in my sleep, I pleaded. The next morning, I woke up. My prayers had not been answered. And who would there be to bother to fulfill such a wish anyway? I felt silly to have even asked. So today, Betty saw the oncologist. He examined her and told me about the nature of the cancer that Betty had. I was impressed by the professionalism and knowledge of this oncologist. But what he told me was pretty much similar to what I've been told all along, just in greater detail. Firstly, Betty's cancer is inoperable, he said. It has penetrated too much into the jaw. A clean excision would be a radical operation that would remove most of the jaw. Cats invariably do not adapt to this, he said, and stop eating, although this option works fairly well on dogs. Second, this type of tumor is fairly resistant to radiation, and very resistant to chemotherapy. But with radiation treatment, Betty could be expected to live 6 to 8 months. However, some patients respond better to these treatments than others Thirdly, a certain human anti-inflammatory drug is known to slow this type of cancer in some cases. Betty can be given a prescription through an out-of-state pharmacy that does custom reformulations. So then he asked, what did I want to do? The oncology center's custom is to describe the treatments possible, and give pet owners carte blanche to try anything, or nothing. I digested all this new information. I thought about it. What did I want for Betty? Finally, I answered - I don't know whether the answer came from the mind or front the heart, but I answered. I said that I wanted to treat this as aggressively as is logical to do medically, and continue to escalate until I say stop. He understood. So Betty will be starting on the anti-inflammatory drug, and going through a course of radiation, one treatment weekly for three weeks, after which the results will be observed, and we'll decide what to do next. More radiation? Chemotherapy, even though it's a long shot? The oncologist emphasized that he does not believe this cancer can be cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her first treatment on Wednesday. {{{{{Tak & Betty}}}}} Jeanne Hedge, as directed by Natasha ============ http://www.jhedge.com Tak, I'm so sorry. Remember though Drs tend to be pessimists. Treat Betty until she tells you to stop. Purrs and prayers from your neighbors. Suz&Spicey Oh Tak, there are no words. I can only wish you luck and pray for the success that you get some more time with Betty. I am so sorry. ((((((((((HUGS)))))))))) Sending purrs and prayers as you and Betty deal with what you must. I hope you are able to have some more quality time together. Jo > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. Well, everyone has to make such decisions for themselves, but are you really sure? If it were you receiving such radical treatment, would you really WANT it? (Personally, I cannot imagine doing such a thing - I'd rather make my peace with everyone and bow out with an overdose of something - so of course I make the same decision for my pets, given such a bleak prognosis.) However, we're all different, and for some of us the mere fact of "life" is more important than the quality of that life. Purrs and prayers for you and Betty, whatever you ultimately do. >> Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, >> because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 21 lines] >> clean excision would be a radical operation that would remove most >> of the jaw. Cats invariably do not adapt to this, he said, and stop >> eating, although this option works fairly well on dogs. >> [quoted text clipped - 15 lines] >> answer came from the mind or front the heart, but I answered. I >> said that I wanted to treat this as aggressively as is logical to do >> medically, and continue to escalate until I say stop. >> [quoted text clipped - 18 lines] > than the quality of that life. Purrs and prayers for you > and Betty, whatever you ultimately do. It's not like 3 treatments of radiation, 1 week apart and taking some anti-inflammatory drugs would be some kind of horrible treatment that would ruin her quality of life! Sheesh! And she seems not to be in any kind of pain now, so why not try the treatment first to see if it will help? -- Britta "There is no snooze button on a cat who wants breakfast." -- Unknown Check out pictures of Vino at: http://photos.yahoo.com/badwilson click on the Vino album >Well, everyone has to make such decisions for themselves, >but are you really sure? If it were you receiving such [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] >so of course I make the same decision for my pets, given >such a bleak prognosis.) I'm not sure if it's what Betty wants, but it's what I ended up wanting to do. The only difficulty I have applying the Golden Rule, which is otherwise a wonderful rule, is that we're sometimes different in what we want done unto us. For as long as I've had Betty, I've wondered and wondered what she wants. Does she want to go out on walks? Does she want a kitty companion? Does she want a new tree? And in studying her, I've come to the tentative conclusion that Betty is an creature who is inherently happy and full of wonder. So I made one of my responsibilities maintaining a stable environment that does not interfere with that happiness and wonder. The cancer thing is making this task a bit hard right now. > However, we're all different, and >for some of us the mere fact of "life" is more important >than the quality of that life. Purrs and prayers for you >and Betty, whatever you ultimately do. Thank you, and I agree with you. There are such tough choices, we should look at this situation critically. The currently scheduled course of treatments should not affect Betty's quality of life too much. The drugs are just anti-inflammatories. The radiation treatment is localized to the jaw, and is done under gas anesthesia, which I think should make it quick, like going to the dentist. Chemo doesn't sound too bad either, although that probably depends a lot of what chemo drug is used. Basically, I'm making a gamble by putting Betty through a spectrum of treatments. I want to see whether she ends up responding well to any of these techniques. If the side effects are bad, or she isn't improving, or the cancer spreads too far, I'll stop. Either way, it's likely the cancer will catch up with her, and she'll eventually succumb to respiratory or other complications. >> Well, everyone has to make such decisions for themselves, >> but are you really sure? If it were you receiving such [quoted text clipped - 17 lines] > interfere with that happiness and wonder. The cancer thing is making > this task a bit hard right now. Tak, I wish you would write a book about you and Betty. You just have such an amazing perspective and a great ability to express it. >> However, we're all different, and >> for some of us the mere fact of "life" is more important [quoted text clipped - 16 lines] > likely the cancer will catch up with her, and she'll eventually > succumb to respiratory or other complications. As will we all. It's just so hard to think of you and Betty being in that postition. >Tak, I wish you would write a book about you and Betty. You just have such >an amazing perspective and a great ability to express it. I could do that, except the only people who would read it would be like you and my mom. :) Betty is working to cheer me up right now. She's pawing me. She also licked me, which she never does! She used just her little tongue tip, and it tickled. <snip> > Basically, I'm making a gamble by putting Betty through a spectrum of > treatments. I want to see whether she ends up responding well to any > of these techniques. If the side effects are bad, or she isn't > improving, or the cancer spreads too far, I'll stop. Either way, it's > likely the cancer will catch up with her, and she'll eventually > succumb to respiratory or other complications. I think Betty will let you know very clearly if she wants you to stop the treatments. You seem to be very attuned to her needs. > Well, everyone has to make such decisions for themselves, > but are you really sure? If it were you receiving such > radical treatment, would you really WANT it? "Such radical treatment"? How do you define "radical"? Anti-inflammatory drugs? Controlled radiation? How much do you actually know about oncology, such that you blast the decisions of someone in a very rough place? (Personally, I > cannot imagine doing such a thing - I'd rather make my peace > with everyone and bow out with an overdose of something - > so of course I make the same decision for my pets, given > such a bleak prognosis.) You don't indicate, by calling rather routine treatment "radical", that you understand what it is, or aren't projecting your own fears on it. ?However, we're all different, and > for some of us the mere fact of "life" is more important > than the quality of that life. Translation: you have a fixation on quality of life, and you fixate on other than euthanasia for cancere as poor quality. I suggest you learn a bit more about oncology. >Purrs and prayers for you > and Betty, whatever you ultimately do. I suppose this formality absolves you from second-guessing Takayuki? Yes, I am angry with you. >?However, we're all different, and >> for some of us the mere fact of "life" is more important [quoted text clipped - 9 lines] >I suppose this formality absolves you from second-guessing Takayuki? >Yes, I am angry with you. In fairness, Howard, I don't think Evelyn's message was particularly second-guessing or accusatory in tone. She was just expressing her own viewpoint, and presented it as a *question* for Tak. If I use the test she proposes -- what would I want done to *me* -- I would agree with her. I've long decided that I have no interest in difficult procedures to extend my life. For humans, who can envision the future, the choice of euthanasia at an early stage can be the best one. (Would that it were as readily available for us as for our pets.) Cat's, however, are different. They don't anticipate, so that isn't part of the equation for them. They have no fear of pain or suffering in the future, and no fear of becoming useless and dependent. Their quality of life doesn't suffer much until their physical condition prevents them from being themselves -- from looking out on their environment with interest or getting comfortable enough to rest. Tak, I like the way you went about making this very difficult decision, looking at Betty as an individual. You'll probably second guess yourself, at times, but if Betty isn't too terrified of the treatments themselves, then why not take the gamble that her time of being "happy and full of wonder" can be prolonged? She just wants to be Betty. You'll know when that's not possible any more (and because you're human, you'll anticipate that time and suffer far longer than she will.) For your suffering, my sympathy; for your courage and competence, my respect.  SignatureWayne M (indulged by Will and Heidi) > >?However, we're all different, and > >> for some of us the mere fact of "life" is more important [quoted text clipped - 14 lines] > just expressing her own viewpoint, and presented it as a > *question* for Tak. I'm sorry, I have to disagree. Tak clearly had made a decision. Now, if Evelyn had described, with knowledge, the potential effects of radiation, that would be useful information. The use of NSAIDs demonstrated to have a chance of causing tumor regression is hardly radical, and, far beyond the chances of regression, will control pain. I offered a basic suggestion about them, and I offer to do a literature search on whether COX-2 inhibitors are superior to nonselective cyclooxygenase inhibitors. > If I use the test she proposes -- what would I want done to *me* > -- I would agree with her. I've long decided that I have no > interest in difficult procedures to extend my life. I don't disagree with this, and, indeed, my own advanced directives are very, very specific about the conditions under which I want nothing but comfort measures, the exception conditions such as I am a viable organ donor candidate, and the perfectly legal things that are effectively euthanasia. As an example of the latter, I specify that if I have a confirmed organic dementia, and am unable to discuss choices, with no reasonable medical chance of recovery functions, I absolutely forbid the use of antibiotics, although authorize specific comfort measures. That effectively means I am likely to die, comfortably, of pneumonia. But I keep returning to the point that Evelyn was assuming everything was radical, when not everything being proposed was radical. Potentially with some other drugs to strengthen bone and further reduce inflammation, I know of humans with bone metastases that have had a meaningful extension of life of decent quality. > For humans, > who can envision the future, the choice of euthanasia at an [quoted text clipped - 8 lines] > from looking out on their environment with interest or getting > comfortable enough to rest. Exactly. The NSAID therapy is a comfort measure that may induce regression. Radiation can be used in different ways, and one technique, particularly appropriate to bone cancer, is "palliative" rather than curative: it is a lower level, with lesser side effects, that helps control the physical size of tumors. The tumor doesn't disappear, but doesn't spread such that it presses on nerves. > > Tak, I like the way you went about making this very difficult [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > gamble that her time of being "happy and full of wonder" can be > prolonged? I agree completely with that, and, speaking from knowledge of the treatments mentioned, do not find them especially radical. If they do not reduce pain, then, indeed, the difficult choice of euthanasia may be appropriate. I've dealt with humans at that stage, where euthanasia was not an option, but the rational and humane thing was to induce barbiturate coma, essentially a state of anesthesia from which the patient will not wake up. Now, what I'm about to say is extremely rare, but there are cases where induced coma can, in rare circumstances, help the body heal. There is some neurochemical and immunologic reasoning to this, although it's something you can't count upon. My objection is that if someone wants to advise against "radical" care, they have enough knowledge of the proposed treatments to explain why they might be inappropriate. Hopefully as a bit of tension release, if a bone-strengthening drug is prescribed, I'd sort of like it to be calcitonin. Most forms of calcitonin are prepared from salmon, so perhaps it would be a cat treat. > She just wants to be Betty. You'll know when that's > not possible any more (and because you're human, you'll > anticipate that time and suffer far longer than she will.) > > For your suffering, my sympathy; for your courage and > competence, my respect. >The use of NSAIDs demonstrated to have a chance of causing tumor >regression is hardly radical, and, far beyond the chances of regression, >will control pain. I offered a basic suggestion about them, and I offer >to do a literature search on whether COX-2 inhibitors are superior to >nonselective cyclooxygenase inhibitors. Just incidentally, I talked with the pharmacist today, and she told me that the anti-inflammatory that was prescribed is called Peroxicam, I think. It's to be administered 1 mg daily for up to four months. > >The use of NSAIDs demonstrated to have a chance of causing tumor > >regression is hardly radical, and, far beyond the chances of regression, [quoted text clipped - 5 lines] > that the anti-inflammatory that was prescribed is called Peroxicam, I > think. It's to be administered 1 mg daily for up to four months. Piroxicam is a respected nonselective of a different family. It's a prescription drug for humans, but not especially toxic. Tak, I like the way you went about making this very difficult decision, looking at Betty as an individual. You'll probably second guess yourself, at times, but if Betty isn't too terrified of the treatments themselves, then why not take the gamble that her time of being "happy and full of wonder" can be prolonged? She just wants to be Betty. You'll know when that's not possible any more (and because you're human, you'll anticipate that time and suffer far longer than she will.) For your suffering, my sympathy; for your courage and competence, my respect. SignatureWayne M (indulged by Will and Heidi) ======================================== What he said. Eloquently put Wayne. Suz >Tak, I like the way you went about making this very difficult >decision, looking at Betty as an individual. You'll probably [quoted text clipped - 4 lines] >not possible any more (and because you're human, you'll >anticipate that time and suffer far longer than she will.) You have a very logical and measured way of looking at things. I don't think I'm quite that reasoned in my thinking, but I think that in similar circumstances, we'd make similar decisions. >> Well, everyone has to make such decisions for themselves, >> but are you really sure? If it were you receiving such [quoted text clipped - 28 lines] > I suppose this formality absolves you from second-guessing Takayuki? > Yes, I am angry with you. Me too, actually..and I admire Tak reatly in bein so restrained in his reply. I'm not sure I could have been in the same situation. It is a decision that can only be made by the care- iver. I think we would all agree /hey, the g is working again..\ that Tak will act in Betty's best interest. I would never dream of advising such as he about what to do. He will know, like we all do, if and when it is time to say no more. That time has not yet come IMHO. ((Tak & Betty)) Tweed >>> Well, everyone has to make such decisions for themselves, >>> but are you really sure? If it were you receiving such [quoted text clipped - 40 lines] > ((Tak & Betty)) > Tweed I think it's time you got a new key board, fortunately they're not too expensive. SignatureAdrian (Owned by Snoopy & Bagheera) A house is not a home, without a cat. http://community.webshots.com/user/clowderuk >>>> Well, everyone has to make such decisions for themselves, >>>> but are you really sure? If it were you receiving such [quoted text clipped - 43 lines] > I think it's time you got a new key board, fortunately they're not too > expensive. I *had* a new keyboard. To answer a ng query I reached for a book. A large book. Which caused the other books to topple over like dominoes and knock over my Gallileo thermometer - which I really loved - down on to my computer, where it smashed all over everything. Spread oil just everywhere including over and in the keyboard :-( but a friend has taken it away to see if he can clean it up and get it to work again. In the meantime, until I can get it back, I am using my old keyboard from my '96 computer and the g seems to be working again! Tweed >>>>> Well, everyone has to make such decisions for themselves, >>>>> but are you really sure? If it were you receiving such [quoted text clipped - 54 lines] > > Tweed I'm sorry to hear about the thermometer, I'm glad you've a spare keyboard and can still use the computer. SignatureAdrian (Owned by Snoopy & Bagheera) A house is not a home, without a cat. http://community.webshots.com/user/clowderuk >> I think it's time you got a new key board, fortunately they're not too >> expensive. [quoted text clipped - 9 lines] > > Tweed Now wait a minute. I had one of those thermometers. Its supposed to be sitting on that shelf over there. And I don't remember when I saw it last. That usually means the kids broke it and got rid of the evidence. I hope they had a really hard time cleaning it up! Jo >>> I think it's time you got a new key board, fortunately they're not too >>> expensive. [quoted text clipped - 18 lines] > > Jo <g> So yours is gone too, is it? Mine was only designed to work between 18-26C and I thought it might never work in my house because it's pretty cold in here as a rule. It never moved for ages until it got hot here. Then suddenly it started to work. The glass bubbles accurately reflected the temperature, and it fascinated me. I feel sad that it got broken, and the place where I got it from don't have them now. <sigh> Tweed I *love* those thermometers and have always wanted one. I will forever kick myself for not getting it a couple of years ago when they had them at a good price at a warehouse store here. I (foolishly) hoped that I might get one for Christmas that year. Silly me. It's been YEARS since I got anything that I actually wanted for Christmas. Unless it's something that I bought myself, that is. Next time I see one, it's MINE. Jane - owned and operated by Princess Rita >>> and knock over my Gallileo thermometer - which I really loved - down on >>> to my computer, where it smashed all over everything. [quoted text clipped - 21 lines] > >Tweed >> Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, >> because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 60 lines] > mere fact of "life" is more important than the quality of that life. > Purrs and prayers for you and Betty, whatever you ultimately do. I don't think that's a very fair thing to say. There is a difference between deciding on your own behalf and on behalf of another. I had a dog with squamous cell carcinoma of the face a few years ago. I took all the treatments for him that were available. A referral to a professor of veterinary oncology at a university many miles away, and we undertook the chemotherapy that she recommended. His tumour was in his lip and I had already had it operated on and debulked before we were referred on. I pursued any and all treatments that might help him, and do you know why? Because it was *me* making decisions for *him* and had I not done so I would have always had a lingering feeling of guilt that I didn't do everythin (sorry my key has just stuck down, we'll have to do without the letter that comes before h!) humanly possible to ive him every chance. I would ima ine that that's how Tak feels now, that every possibility of cure must be looked into and I support him in this choice while Betty is so well. ood luck Tak and Betty! and many hugs to you both. Tweed [[Well, everyone has to make such decisions for themselves, but are you really sure? If it were you receiving such radical treatment, would you really WANT it? (Personally, I cannot imagine doing such a thing - I'd rather make my peace with everyone and bow out with an overdose of something - so of course I make the same decision for my pets, given such a bleak prognosis.) However, we're all different, and for some of us the mere fact of "life" is more important than the quality of that life. Purrs and prayers for you and Betty, whatever you ultimately do.]] FWIW, I can empathize with Tak's decision to at least TRY available treatments and see what'd work. In my cat's case a few years ago, it was already known from the get-go that Melody's case of thoracic lymphosarcoma was inoperable and incurable by the time it showed any symptoms and was discovered. Palliative care *could* buy quality time, but that was the best we could hope for. At least three treatment options were available. But on discussing them with the vet, I came to understand that all three would have about the same efficacy. It wasn't a case where any one of the treatments would be likely to be noticeably more useful than the others. So I went with the least-invasive treatment. Where the original prognosis was 3-6 months, Melody had quality time for 7 months. She really was her normal self: eating, playing, demanding attention, purring her little head off, being a lap fungus, etc. The vet was amazed that she did so well for so long, maintaining her weight and her strength. The end, when it came, didn't take long. She showed signs of illness, we returned to the vet, and x-rays showed that the mass was SO large that there was no treatment that could buy any more quality time. I'd made a resolution when the cancer was first diagnosed that the day it was certain that there would be no more quality time would be the day I let go. So I requested the final act of mercy from the vet. Anyone who saw that set of x-rays would have done the same. :o( But I did have seven more months of Melody's priceless company... months I wouldn't trade for anything. If treatment can buy quality time, and if the pet's owner can afford to provide it, it's well worth the effort in my book. But if it's NOT providing quality time -- something that might only be possible to determine by trying the treatment to see how the pet responds to it -- then it's not fair to the pet. FWIW, I can definitely understand why someone would at least try a treatment to SEE if it works. Provided, that is, that they're willing to be honest with themselves and if the pet has reached a point where it's impossible to stave off their suffering anymore, that they're also willing to do the unselfish thing and let go. Tak, I wish the vets had been able to provide happier answers for you and Betty. You're both in my prayers. Donna, Captain, and Stanley > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was > listening... Hugs. > I asked that Betty's life be spared. In return, I offer my own life. > A life for a life is fair, isn't it? It's not that I don't love my [quoted text clipped - 27 lines] > type of cancer in some cases. Betty can be given a prescription > through an out-of-state pharmacy that does custom reformulations. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are more and more used for this, in two-legs and four-legs. If you have any problem finding a compounding pharmacy, we do have a local one in Alexandria, Virginia -- I can get you the information if you need it. This was along the lines of what I did for Clifford's bladder cancer. We used a combination of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent (fluriprofen) and a corticosteroid, prednisone. These both relieve discomfort and can shrink that type of tumor. I found these easiest to administer as liquids (tuna-flavored) with a syringe. If you have to give multiple drugs to Betty, even if the drugs can't be mixed in the prescription, it's usually possible to draw them sequentially into the syringe and give them all in one burst. The hope had been that they could reduce the tumor sufficiently that he would be strong enough to take more aggressive chemotherapy, which had about a 30% chance of putting him into remission for up to a couple of years. While I had some concerns about one of the chemotherapy drugs, which has almost intolerable side effects in human, the oncologist assured me that cats tolerate it (cisplatin) much better than humans. In human cancer, there's been considerable work since then exploring the NSAID family, and some of the new COX-2 inhibitors (e.g., Vioxx and Celebrex) may be more effective than the nonselective NSAIDs. This isn't specific to bone cancer. > So then he asked, what did I want to do? The oncology center's custom > is to describe the treatments possible, and give pet owners carte [quoted text clipped - 5 lines] > wanted to treat this as aggressively as is logical to do medically, > and continue to escalate until I say stop. This makes sense. I had to deal with my mother's bone metastases from breast cancer, although there were far fewer options at the time. > He understood. So Betty will be starting on the anti-inflammatory > drug, and going through a course of radiation, one treatment weekly > for three weeks, after which the results will be observed, and we'll > decide what to do next. More radiation? Chemotherapy, even though > it's a long shot? One of the problems of bone cancer can be that it will weaken the bone and make fractures more likely. Some of the drugs now used for osteoporosis are used to avoid this in humans, but don't know if they have been used in cats. It's something to explore. > The oncologist emphasized that he does not believe this cancer can be > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. You made much the choice that I did. It's never perfect. >This makes sense. I had to deal with my mother's bone metastases from >breast cancer, although there were far fewer options at the time. >You made much the choice that I did. It's never perfect. It's hard to know 100% what to do when the doctor gives such a bleak prognosis. You're just a fountain of information! It makes it easier to see what the options are, and it helps me out that you have good knowledge in these areas. And thank you for the information about the anti-inflammatories - it's very interesting. Unfortunately, I didn't catch what the name of the specific one they prescribed was, but they've sent the prescription to a pharmacy in New Hampshire, so I'll be calling them tomorrow about it to arrange pick up or delivery. > The oncologist emphasized that he does not believe this cancer can be > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. Tak, we're keeping you and Betty in our thoughts and we're sending lots and lots of purrs. I can only begin to imagine how you must feel, having had a false scare with Basho a while back. Hang in there! SignatureVictor M. Martinez Owned and operated by the Fantastic Seven (TM) Send your spam here: uce@ftc.gov Email me here: pistorLITTER@BOXaustin.rr.com I'll be praying that Betty's treatment is effective in a manner as yet unheard of. In other words, a miraculous cure. It *can* happen. {{{{{{Tak}}}}}} {{{{{{Betty}}}}}} Gennie > I digested all this new information. I thought about it. What did I > want for Betty? Finally, I answered - I don't know whether the answer > came from the mind or front the heart, but I answered. I said that I > wanted to treat this as aggressively as is logical to do medically, > and continue to escalate until I say stop. {{{{Tak and Betty}}}} Susan M Otis and Chester Purrs that you're able to help Betty have the maximum amount of quality time possible. Donna, Captain, and Stanley On Thu 01 Sep 2005 09:21:12p, Takayuki wrote in rec.pets.cats.anecdotes (news:018fh15l0rcrcmfrdf4vmg485ttn11esb5@ 4ax.com): > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was > listening... Tak, I'm so sorry to read this news lately about your Betty. I know you'll do whatever is right for her. You're both in my thoughts and prayers. SignatureCheryl "The clever cat eats cheese and breathes down rat holes with baited breath." - W.C. Fields > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. Sending all our purrs to Betty. Sherry Purrs for you and Betty. Ann Signatureread Sam's blog at http://kittens-3.blogspot.com/ see pictures of Sam at http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/ann791/my_photos > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. What a hard choice! I hope Betty's illness will at least be slowed by her treatments. (((Takayuki))) Melissa >Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, >because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 7 lines] >current furry baby. So her life is more important than mine. Kill me >in my sleep, I pleaded. (snip) Dumb idea, anyway, Tak. Betty needs you. Oh Tak, I really have no words. We are *never* ready for this kind of choice, and it seems especially cruel with such a special creature as Betty. Our thoughts and purrs are with you. Theresa Stinky Pictures: http://community.webshots.com/album/125591586JWEFwh My Blog: http://www.humanitas.blogspot.com > The oncologist emphasized that he does not believe this cancer can be > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. I'm sorry. I hope it all works out and I hope she tolerates her treatment well. Candace I'm so sorry Tak. Many purrs that the treatment is effective even though the doc doesn't think so. And don't offer up your life! Who would feed Betty?!? -- Britta "There is no snooze button on a cat who wants breakfast." -- Unknown Check out pictures of Vino at: http://photos.yahoo.com/badwilson click on the Vino album > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. >I'm so sorry Tak. Many purrs that the treatment is effective even >though the doc doesn't think so. And don't offer up your life! Who >would feed Betty?!? Oh, she'll be taken care of. People here know about me and Betty, and many of them are the pushy^H^H^H^H^Hproactive type. So if they can't contact me when they expect to, they'll probably kick down my door, feed Betty, and scoop her box. :) (((((Takayuki)))) -- you and Betty are in our thoughts and purrayers. I'm so very sorry you and she are having to go through this. Christine > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. -----BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE----- From: Takayuki <Takayuki9z@yahoo.com> >I digested all this new information. I thought about it. What did I >want for Betty? Finally, I answered - I don't know whether the answer >came from the mind or front the heart, but I answered. I said that I >wanted to treat this as aggressively as is logical to do medically, >and continue to escalate until I say stop. First, I want to say that I do feel for what you're going through. And second, I think you made the right decision. My feelings in these situations is that you fight the disease as hard as you can, with the best people, the best treatment, and the best hope that you can come up with. Sometimes, you just get lucky. And I've always thought that a prayer or two can't hurt. The group rec.pets.cats.health+behav seems to get a bad rap around here, but I would also suggest the you post about Betty's condition over there. There's a guy named "Phil P." that follows the group who has been a true Godsend to me when I found out that my big 'ol buddy "TK" had suddenly developed a heart murmur that turned out to be moderate Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Phil isn't a vet, but he works with a LOT of cats and seems, in many cases, to know more that most vets.He went out of his way to look over TKs echo report and explain in detail just what those 2 pages of numbers all meant. When TK was diagnosed in May, the cardiologist and the report seemed to paint a pretty grim outlook. Phil looked at things and said it doesn't look all that bad, to him. TK had a regular checkup in August and the vet had to go get the electronic stethoscope to hear even a trace of a heart murmur (it was a 3+ on a scale of 6 back in May). Now I'm hoping his echo in 2 months looks as good as the diminishing murmur would indicate. Anyway, if there's anything that you're iffy about, it wouldn't hurt to run it by "Phil P." It might help you bring the whole picture into focus. My best wishes for you and Betty. >Anyway, if there's anything that you're iffy about, it wouldn't >hurt to run it by "Phil P." It might help you bring the whole picture >into focus. >My best wishes for you and Betty. Thank you for the good advice. Right now, I'm basically on schedule to be at the oncology center every week, and I'm getting good information, but if I have some more questions, or want second and third opinions, I'll look for Phil on the newsgroup. > So then he asked, what did I want to do? The oncology center's custom > is to describe the treatments possible, and give pet owners carte [quoted text clipped - 15 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. Oh, Tak, I'm so sorry to hear about this! I'll definitely be asking for some devine intervention on Betty's behalf. Just please, hard as it is, don't let her suffer. Jill >Oh, Tak, I'm so sorry to hear about this! I'll definitely be asking for >some devine intervention on Betty's behalf. Just please, hard as it is, >don't let her suffer. This part is tough, and isn't something that I even considered before, but it's something I'll have to think about very hard when the time comes. (snipped) > The oncologist emphasized that he does not believe this cancer can be > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. We are purring very, very hard for you and Betty. I hope your Betty confounds all prognoses, but I know that you will make the right decisions for her, knowing how much you love her and how much consideration you have always given to her needs. ((((((Tak)))))) ------ Krista Purrs and purrayers for you and Betty. SignatureJoy > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. What a difficult choice you had to make! Purrs for Betty and yourself. I'm sure with you as her guardian, her her quality of life will continue to be good, no matter how long she has left with you. Yowie > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. > Firstly, Betty's cancer is inoperable, > he said. It has penetrated too much into the jaw. A clean excision [quoted text clipped - 10 lines] > type of cancer in some cases. Betty can be given a prescription > through an out-of-state pharmacy that does custom reformulations. So Sorry to learn this, even though it was expected. You & Betty have our most supportive purrs & human best wishes for the treatments to provide a good quality of life for as long as possible. You will hear Betty tell you when she'd like you to stop, I have no doubt. Please keep us all posted. I'm sure everyone here (a few moronic trollsters possibly excluded) will be right behind you every step of the way. Big Purrs Gordon & the FF > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 11 lines] > who would there be to bother to fulfill such a wish anyway? I felt > silly to have even asked. Tak, My heart goes out to you and Betty. You were not silly to have tried to strike such a bargain. Your love for Betty is an inspiration. Just because we do not get what we ask for, it does not mean we have not been heard. It means that there is a bigger picture that we don't see. If your wish had been granted, Betty would have had to live the rest of her life without you. Whenever those inevitable final days would come, who would be there to give her the care and love you are giving her now? I'm hoping that a miracle is in store, or at least you will have more time with Betty. And because you are here, I hope you will derive some peace in knowing that she will continue to get the love and best care anyone could provide during those terrible times when the decisions are so very difficult. We shared your joy, and we will share your tears. Annie >Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, >because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] >cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her >first treatment on Wednesday. {{{{{{{{{Betty & her worried daddy}}}}}}}} Purrs and Hugs, Nan >>Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, >>because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 53 lines] > > {{{{{{{{{Betty & her worried daddy}}}}}}}} I did not get the original on this, so am stealing Nan's post as the original. Sorry Nan. Tak, I'm so sorry that you're going through this, but so glad that Betty has you to go through it with. Does that make sense? She is so lucky to have someone who loves her so much to take care of her and make sure that she has the best life she can have. Needless to say, we're all here for you both and hope that you two can have long and meaningful lives together. We're sending all the purrs and healing thoughts we can in your direction. Pam S. {{Tak & Betty}} Hope the treatment goes well, and exceeds expectations. Lots of good thoughts and purrs from us here. Hugs, Kate Owned by Fudge, Caramel & Meg. To both of you ......sincere purrs. Hazel <snip> > The oncologist emphasized that he does not believe this cancer can be > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. Continuing purrs that Betty has plenty of quality time left. SignatureAdrian (Owned by Snoopy & Bagheera) A house is not a home, without a cat. http://community.webshots.com/user/clowderuk Tak, whatever you decide is the right decision. We are here for you to talk to. We will purr and pray that Betty is comfortable and that you and she spend a long time together happily. Lily & her mama SignatureIrulan from the stars we come to the stars we return from now until the end of time > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. Huge hugs and purrs coming... >Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, >because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] >cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her >first treatment on Wednesday. {{{{Betty}}}} I'm so sorry. I hope that the treatments help her and that she can be comfortable soon. Blessings, Ginger-lyn Home Pages: http://www.spiritrealm.com/summer/ http://www.angelfire.com/folk/glsummer (homepage & cats) http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~summer/index.htm (genealogy) http://www.movieanimals.bravehost.com/ (The Violence Against Animals in Movies Website) > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was > listening... <snip> > The oncologist emphasized that he does not believe this cancer can be > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. Purrs for you and Betty. lal But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > > first treatment on Wednesday. Many purrs for Betty. As long as she is happy and content and able to keep "being Betty," then you are doing the right thing for her. --Fil "Takayuki" said... > I digested all this new information. I thought about it. What did I > want for Betty? Finally, I answered - I don't know whether the answer > came from the mind or front the heart, but I answered./// {{{{HUGS, PRAYERS & PURRS}}}} to you and Betty for what will undoubtably be a tough time ahead. This is desperately sad news, but please know that we're keeping you both in our thoughts. Helen M, HRFL Tiger, Pandora, Cleo, Robbie and Thomasina. And the d*g Bonnie. I'll be waiting to hear how things go, Tak. Gentle hugs to you and dear Betty. PatM >I'll be waiting to hear how things go, Tak. Gentle hugs to you and >dear Betty. > >PatM I'll be sure to post about any significant or interesting developments. There's an evaluation scheduled immediately before the third radiation treatment on 9/20, so I'll at least have to report the findings from that. It's sometimes been a bit hard to post about Betty though. Her condition scares me so much that worrying about it can make me non-functional. I have to force myself into a strange, detached state of mind in order to be able to post about Betty without worrying too much about her at the same time! > It's sometimes been a bit hard to post about Betty though. Her > condition scares me so much that worrying about it can make me > non-functional. I have to force myself into a strange, detached state > of mind in order to be able to post about Betty without worrying too > much about her at the same time! I know exactly what you mean, Tak. {{{{Tak and Betty}}}} SignatureMarina, Frank, Miranda and Caliban. In loving memory of Nikki. marina (dot) kurten (at) iki (dot) fi Pics at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/frankiennikki/ and http://community.webshots.com/user/frankiennikki > The oncologist emphasized that he does not believe this cancer can be > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. I hope the doc is wrong. We will be purring hard for you both from now until then, and then on. I'm so sorry this had to happen to Betty. SignatureMarina, Frank, Miranda and Caliban. In loving memory of Nikki. marina (dot) kurten (at) iki (dot) fi Pics at http://uk.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/frankiennikki/ and http://community.webshots.com/user/frankiennikki >> The oncologist emphasized that he does not believe this cancer can be >> cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her >> first treatment on Wednesday. > > I hope the doc is wrong. We will be purring hard for you both from now > until then, and then on. I'm so sorry this had to happen to Betty. I, too, hope the vet is wrong in this case. Adding Mistletoe's and Smokey's purrs and my prayers for Betty and for you. Sam I'm so so sorry to hear this, Tak. I do so wish there was something I could do. We are purring and hoping for a miracle cure for Betty. You both are in our thoughts, SignaturePolonca & Soncek > Last night, I must have been in the bargaining phase of mourning, > because I made a plea to whoever might be listening, if anyone was [quoted text clipped - 51 lines] > cured. But maybe its effects can be delayed. She's going in for her > first treatment on Wednesday. > So today, Betty saw the oncologist. He examined her and told me > about the nature of the cancer that Betty had. I was impressed by [quoted text clipped - 6 lines] > of the jaw. Cats invariably do not adapt to this, he said, and stop > eating, although this option works fairly well on dogs. Oh no ... I haven't been able to check RPCA much lately, so I didn't know that Betty was ill. I'm so sorry. I hope that the aggressive treatment allows you the time to share many more happy moments. Signaturemonique, who spoils Oscar unmercifully pictures: http://www.bounceswoosh.org/rpca |
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