Update August 2004
Let’s go back in time a bit where we started the CSU Canine Tumor vaccine. We took out her lung met in late Nov. 2003, and built her vaccine on her own OS. This protocol consists of 5 shots 2 weeks apart, and then 3 shots 1 month apart for a total of 8 shots. On the 6th shot, March 2, 2004, we took x-rays, and determined that it again spread to the lungs. We reviewed the earlier x-rays taken in late Jan. and we could see it there but it was thought to be scar tissue. We stopped the vaccine. When a protocol treatment fails, it is easy to back track and second-guess. To tell you the truth, we really did not have many options as substitutes. In my heart, I would have loved the option to give chemo in conjunction with the vaccine, but unfortunately, Jogger already exhausted all the traditional chemo agents.
Dr. Walter and I discussed all the options we had. I knew that most I would not pursue and most were probably not effective. However, I knew my personality, and I wanted them all on the table, so that I knew exactly why I did not pursue it. For me, as I look back, this exercise allows the peace of no regrets.
There was on long shot, relatively low side-effects, and well, maybe a miracle would happen. We gave Jogger, Gemzar (a chemo agent), administered twice over the next month. On April 6, 2004, x-rays showed progression of the disease and I knew that we truly had exhausted all traditional treatment. It was estimated she had about 2 months.
There is the inevitable and there is the inevitable. The first week of being sent home to love her was beyond bearable. I honestly did not know if I could make it thru 2 months. She was acting and looking great with absolutely no signs. I regrouped and increased her anti-angiogensis type supplements and as some of the other supplements ran out, I did not replace them. Although I have been a strong proponent of the supplements and truly believe she made it as far as she did with them, I also believe at some point, you unplug and come on home. That was our plan.
In early July, I noticed the marked decrease in energy and appetite. Now, we all know that appetite is a “sign”. But when they actually don’t eat, there is nothing that is more disheartening when you actually witness it. I changed her food to regular dog food and that seemed to do the trick and hope was given. On July 24th, Jogger got a massage. Judy found a rather large lump on the top of her tailbone. At that moment, I knew we were entering the end stage. That night, I noticed Jogger struggling and by Sunday morning, July 25th, she was carrying her right leg and not putting any weight on it. I knew that a dog does not have to be screaming to be in pain. In my heart, I felt we were talking only days at most. I always told Jogger that she needed to give me a clear sign and that I promised I would not let it go on. We went to the dog park one last time and we waited to a reasonable time to call Dr. Walter.
