October
2012
Six month update5
I am actually scared to write the 6 month (6 months was September 29, 2012) update afraid I will jinx myself. Everything we were told when Bailey had his amputation was “you are giving him another 3-6 months”, this was assuming we would do chemo, then 6 months was the magic number.We did 2 rounds of chemo, but it was enough for Bailey’s little body. Bailey is doing well, as well as can be expected from an 18 year old. His eyesight has really gone down hill. He walks into things a lot more frequently – I am afraid to take him away from the house for fear he will hurt himself. His hearing is well…. optional. Watching me get his attention should be on YouTube. I basically flail my body about until he catches a glimpse of me as I speak loudly hoping he will miraculously hear me. I have become a little bit more patient when it comes to waiting for him.
He is in a routine of potty, bedtime snack and then a big lift from mama into the bed for a restful night’s sleep. It amazes me how good this boy of mine is. Never complains.He greets me with the same excitement he has for 18 years, except this time I run in the house to try to get him to greet me on the rug, otherwise his own excitement cause him to fall on the floor (he is a big tail wagger).
My worrying never stops. I fear he will break another leg at any given moment or I will come home and find him hurt, but then I muster to move on in my thoughts and give him a hug and get a kiss in return and all is right again. I can only pray that if I am ever faced with something as difficult as Bailey I can handle it with the grace, strength and acceptance he has.
What a delight to see a post on Bailey! He always brings a smile to my face. 18 in itself is amazing. I still remember one of your very early posts where just a few days after his amp he ran down to the front yard protecting his turf. He is one spirited little guy. I hope he continues to enjoy life and you continue to enjoy him.
Thank you so much for your kind words. It amazes me to watch him, at times he seems like a 90 year old and then other times like a 2 year old playing with his stuffed animals. He still likes to play crutch still, except now after I throw the toy I have to show him where it went. He is just so happy being here with us. It has all been worth it.
Nope, you’re not going to jinx yourself, if anything you scared cancer back to timbuktu! Bailey is simply remarkable, a real gift from the universe who came here to teach humans lessons about making the most of life. We’re so glad you decided to share those lessons with us too, thank you.
Now give that boy a big hug from us!
Bailey is such a inspiration to so many and more than you could possibly imagine. I totally get the not wanting to jinx things by recognizing a date. That’s just dumb human stuff we all do. We really appreciate the update as I have thought of him often. So happy to hear he still gives and receives joy everyday. Many more joyful days ahead for you is what we wish!!
Thank you all for your supportive words. This website has been a godsend to us. I have learned a lot of things are “just dumb human stuff”. A dog’s heart and soul is an amazing thing. Bailey, and his sister, Prancer, go on as if nothing is different (obviously Bailey struggles a little more with certain things). They just wake up and go on with their day, things have changed, but they still just go on with their day. No self pity here.