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10.19.2004 :: Back from Vacation

Shells on the beach in Oak Bluffs

I got back from vacation last week and have been settling back in to my routine at home. My plan had included going to Rhinebeck, but I made a last minute decision not to attend.

Spencer was scheduled for his second chemotherapy treatment (second treatment of the second type that we were trying) on the day before I was going to leave for Rhinebeck. What I found out from the vet was that since the second type of chemotherapy (CeeNu) didn't seem to be working, he felt that all direct treatment of the cancer should be called off.

Despite the tumor's size and intermittent goopiness, Spencer is still feeling good and neither the veterinary oncologist nor our regular vet thinks that he's close to the point where we need to consider euthanasia. So Spencer is now on a maintenance plan of anti-histamines to keep the tumor and it's chemical components under control.

I decided to cancel my trip to NY because I didn't want to leave Spencer alone for the weekend. I have a great guy who comes to the house to watch the dogs when I'm away, but I just didn't feel comfortable with the idea of being away while his health is so unpredictable.

I really missed getting to meet the wonderful bloggers that I knew would be in attendance. I'm so sorry to have missed meeting you all!

Posted by Mary on 10.19.2004 AT 10:40 AM

Comments

We missed you too. All the best to Spencer.

Posted by: claudia on 10.19.2004 AT 11:50 AM

Hugs to Spencer and you too! {cometoGigHarborcometoGigHarborcometoGigHarbor}

Posted by: Sheila on 10.19.2004 AT 11:56 AM

You are a good doggie mommy. I'm sure that Spencer appreciates your sacrifice.

Posted by: michelle on 10.19.2004 AT 12:07 PM

I'm so glad to hear that Spencer is holding his own. I wish that you could have come to Rhinebeck, but completely understand why you didn't. You were missed.

Posted by: Annie on 10.19.2004 AT 12:23 PM

We missed meeting you, but were all thinking of Spencer and how lucky he is to have you!

Posted by: Mary Beth on 10.19.2004 AT 12:32 PM

Your such a good mommy : ) Hugs to Spencer. I would have done the same.
Mary, Your pics are wonderful.

Posted by: Cindy on 10.19.2004 AT 12:47 PM

There's always next year. I'm gonna hold you to it! Damn, girl, you take pretty photos. :)

Posted by: Kerstin on 10.19.2004 AT 02:18 PM

Well, I didn't go to Rhinebeck either, for much less compelling reasons. Perhaps next year? You're taking great care of Spencer - I know he appreciates it. Please feel free to post as many do pictures as you'd like - I love seeing Spencer and Katy when I visit.

Posted by: Donna on 10.19.2004 AT 03:54 PM

My thoughts are with you and Spencer. He's such a doll and I know you are treasuring every day you have together. I hope you have many many days together.

Posted by: Nanette on 10.19.2004 AT 05:33 PM

Oh, yes, next year, next year! :)
Dog bones to Spencer! And ben and jerry's to you! (I was going to do the "hug", but it's been done! )
mary, that picture is so fabulous! you have a way with a camera!
Thanks yet again for your blog help. I am indebted. AGain.

Posted by: sandy on 10.19.2004 AT 06:36 PM

Rhinebeck isn't going anywhere. You did the right thing.

Posted by: Melissa on 10.19.2004 AT 09:27 PM

Aww - poor Spence. So sorry. I so know how hard it is. (((hugs))) to Spencer

Posted by: Alysia on 10.19.2004 AT 10:32 PM

I'm so very sorry to hear the news about Spencer.

Posted by: Robin on 10.20.2004 AT 10:10 PM

Sounds like a hard time.

Fantastic picture!!

Posted by: Dianna on 10.26.2004 AT 06:13 PM