One Day at a Time

This is an update on Suzie Q. What the doctors think - and they couldn't be sure -- if that she has a fluid build up in the sac that shrouds her heart. No tumour in the liver or spleen, which would have been a big concern for Suzie's next steps.

We had a choice. We could choose to have her undergo very invasive surgery to look-see at her heart and, if possible although not sure, release any fluid -- if any. The vet wasn't able to give us much more than -- "it might be a possibility and we aren't sure and the surgery is invasive": (if she said the word "invasive" once, she said it seven times).

Other choice. Bring her home and treat her with love and care and take it as it comes. Watch and take the next step that reveals itself to us.

We chose option 2. Suzie perked up when she saw us; was her usual frenetic self on the car ride home; and started about two blocks from home to demonstrate that she knew she was going to a place that is special to her. Of course, I'm quietly freaking out -- "Suze, I know you want to get to your special blanket, drink out of the toilet, and watch TV with Jim; but let's be mindful of your heart!!!"

Jim specifically asked me to let you know how she is. When I asked him what to say about her prognosis, he simply said "One Day at a Time". One Day at a Time.

Thanks for your calls and prayers. I have no doubt they helped.

And, Karen, thank you for remaining ever watchful at the ultimate end of the rainbow bridge. When we got into the vet's office tonight, terrified of the choices ahead, there was a picture on the wall of a beautiful rainbow. I said to Jim: "That's it; there's the message". "She's heading over the bridge and we have to let her go from this side".

But. Not yet, Karen, not yet. Suzie has more love to give us on this side. And we are grateful.

One day at a time...