Saturday, December 8, 2018

Days of Grace and Goals for Bailey

The end of another week, as Christmas draws closer. 
~Rhett~

This week ended with Bailey back at the Internist for x-rays and an ultrasound in hopes of finding the cause for her cough and all the problems that it brings about for her.

Unfortunately, the Internist "identified a 3.9 cm mass deep in the abdomen that is likely pressing on her esophagus."  This mass is expected to grow and will eventually cause discomfort or blockage. This mass in particular, because of where it is, is totally inoperable. Even if Bailey were a younger dog, the Internist does not feel that removing it would be an option.  And if that weren't enough (and it was) also found was another mass between Bailey's ribs.
~Bailey waiting for her tests~
Given all of that, and at the recommendation of the Vet, I've discussed everything with the medical-coordinator from the rescue and together we have decided to make and keep Bailey happy and comfortable but not pursue any further treatment for her. She will of course have any needed medications and vet care, but there will be no "extreme measures" taken to prolong her life. 

So, as we begin Bailey's precious days of grace, I will do as I always do.....  To really (really) try to not dwell on what's to come. And if I have learned anything about this kind of diagnosis, I know to just forget what the vet says and remember to live in and savor the moments together. It also helps to think and remain positive and set goals and do our best to reach them. Bailey is feeling well, she is not coughing, she has a really good appetite, and is up and around. She is happy.  So, for our first goal it will be an easy one, Christmas and onto New Years.  The big goal will be her 14th birthday that comes in March. I think with your cheering her on, and POTP, we will make it together.
~Good night from Bailey~

31 comments:

  1. What a sweet pup! I hope she can stay happy and feeling well for a good long time.

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  2. Hello to Bailey and your whole crew. Sad news about Bailey diagnosis. I agree, savor the happy times with Bailey. I hope she gets to see her 14th birthday. Enjoy your day and have a happy weekend.

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  3. Oh, precious girl. I lost my Boo in August, 2 months shy of her 14th birthday; I hope sweet Bailey makes it to hers, still feeling good :)

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  4. We send love to Bailey and hopes for love and comfort in her final weeks.

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  5. they live the way we humans should. I got to the point once this year when they were constantly testing my heart and whether to do this extreme measure or that one... I finally said "ENOUGH! let me be. I will just live happily until I die." and that is what I plan to do for the rest of my time here. there's an amazingly calm and happy feeling that comes with that decision. and I think Baily has it. and you put it so perfectly. it's the time of Grace. it may be long or short.
    but it's life well lived.
    and as always... these pictures are so beautiful! hug Bailey for me sweet bean! and ALL of your crew! XO

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  6. 4 years ago we were on that watch with Kyla and she lasted until Dec 19. Some of the best memories are made during that time because you know every second is "stolen".

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  7. Bailey will let you know. There is turkey to be had on the 25th. Then that special calmness dogs have that life doesn't end it just changes.

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  8. We will travel the journey together with Bailey, just as we are doing with our Emma. Every day is a gift to be savored and placed in our book of memories. God Bless Bailey and you for walking this path together.

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  9. Sounds like the best course of action. You've got our POTP.

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  10. Bless you for caring and wishing Bailey the best!
    Simba

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  11. Cheering from deep in my heart . . .
    Love your care and caring!

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  12. That is indeed not the news we were hoping for, but with you we will take every day of grace that Bailey can have. Please give her some gentle hugs from all of us.

    Woos - Lightning, Misty, and Timber

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  13. P.S. Rhett looks beautiful in the glow of the lights.

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  14. What a beautiful picture of Rhett! So sorry about Bailey's report - POTP!

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  15. All paws are crossed for Bailey and we send hugs to her caring humans too.

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  16. OK Bailey... I plan to be at your birthday party in March. You NOSE how much I loves cake!!!

    Keep on fighting. POTP on the way.

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  17. I have so much to learn from you... You are amazing, and Bailey will live all of her days of grace in happiness thanks to you.

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  18. Bailey Big Birthday smashin party, oh we will help you celebrate.

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  19. I am so glad Bailey has you. Prayers and POTP for all of you.

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  20. We will have our pug paws crossed for Bailey that she will reach that first goal and more. We so admire you loving dedication
    hugs
    Hazel & Mabel

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  21. Feeling both sorrow and joy for you and Bailey. She's lucky to have you to hold her paw and help her enjoy these sweet days of winter. What else can we ask for but someone to be by our side and be there with us to face what will come?

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  22. I am loving Bailey...and you too, for all that you do for our fine animal friends. We have rescued our 3rd lab, black 1 this time) and he is strutting his red bow and jingle bells for the holiday season! May you and Bailey have a Joyous Christmas Season! FA LA LA...

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  23. Darling Bailey - and all at Golden Pines - will have a special place in my prayers. May all her days be full of love and joy. I've not been able to comment recently but have been following right along. Hurray for Kirsten and her new home with Frisky. You had mentioned how much Chipper liked Kirsten and I'm wondering how he's doing. And Nina is a real heart-melter; she reminds me much of our dear black lab mix Tess (now long gone). The picture of Rhett is simply beautiful. Stephanie in Northern California

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  24. Oh so sorry to hear the sad news for sweet Bailey. Such a lucky dog to be able to spend those days of grace with you and the pack. POTP from Lucy and me.

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  25. Love and caring thoughts to you all at Golden Pines.

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  26. Im sorry the news wasn't better, but she won't dwell on it. I'm sure she will love every moment of celebrating Christmas and the new year with you.

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  27. I am a total stranger on the internet, but am asking you to give Bailey a kiss on her head for me, because I can't. Sweet girl.

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  28. I don't know if this makes any difference to you or not, but that's exactly the decision my brother made for himself when a mass was found on his esophagus, even before the resultant scans showed other tumors. I hope remaining Bailey's days are as golden as possible.

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  29. Keeping you and Bailey as well as all of Golden Pines,close to my heart.
    Love you all,
    Gus' Mom

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  30. Give Bailey a hug from me. I hope you have a lovely peaceful Christmas and BAILEY gets to see his 14th birthday, wishing you best wishes for the season xxxx

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  31. POTP for sure,,, Healing thoughts,, and wishes,, and staying positive,,, extra abundance of love,,
    And hugs!
    love
    tweedles

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Speak--I really enjoy your comments! Thanks for stopping by today!!