Lucas has cancer (5-22-06)

[jenluckenbach]

Ultrasound results show FIVE tumors. Pancreas, lymph nodes and small bowel.

They want chemo-therapy, I do not. :(

I'll be consulting with my own vet later about how to make him as comfortable as possible.

I'm going to lose my sweet boy. :( :(

[Barbara]

Oh Jen!!!!!!!! {{{{{{Hugs}}}}}}
I've been following Lucas' story from a distance- and I had no idea.
There is no comfort right now :( You can't let him suffer :( :( :(

[rg_girlca]

OH JEN NO!!!!! Oh gosh I am sitting here with tears streaming down my face.

I cannot tell you how brokenhearted I am to hear this terrible news. My heart goes out to you. I know words right now will not comfort you at this time. Just know that we will be here for you.

I'm so, so sorry. :(

((((((HUGS))))))

[aki]

Oh poor baby Lucas. :(

Sending up prayers for Lucas and you his family.

~Aki

[catnapper]

Oh Jen!!!!! ((((HUG))))

I can't blame you for not wanting chemo - it's going to cost a small fortune and make him very sick.... and then there's no gaurantee it would work. I kow you'll do everything possible to make him feel as comofrtable as possible.

[Lizzie]

What a horrible and terrible shock for you, Jen, I'm truly sorry. I never even considered something this serious, I was thinking more along the lines of not knowing quite what was wrong despite the ultrasound. You know Lucas and so only you know what is best for him, but I must ask why you have decided not to use chemotherapy since cats do well on it, usually, and don't have as many side issues as humans. Give him an extra kiss on the nape for me, that place is so soft, and try to indulge both of you in plenty of special time together.

[jazzcat]

Oh Jen, my heart is breaking!! :( I am so so very sorry.

I'm sure my decision about the chemo would be exactly like yours. With so many tumors I would just concentrate on making him comfortable and happy.

You, Charlie and Lucas are all in my thoughts and prayers.

[slick]

Oh Jen..... :( :( I just don't know what to say. I'm so very sorry. If it were Max, I would make the same decision as you, although I have known people who have put their kitties through chemo and came through with flying colours.

{{{hugs}}} Jen.
xoxoxo

[Glacier]

I'm so sorry! I hope your vet can find a way to keep Lucas comfy and that you get some more loving time with him.

My decision on the chemo would be the same as yours. In fact, Stuart and I have already talked about and decided what we will do in this situation(just by sheer numbers, it's likely to happen someday!).

[Maresche]

{{hugs Jen}}

I'm so sorry to hear about Lucas, but we all know that you will make the best decision for him when it comes time to make decisions.

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

:( :(
I'm so sorry. I was so hoping it would be something curable, but 5 tumors.... :( :(

From what you were saying though, he is acting completely normal so maybe, like with Peanut, the tumors aren't really bothering him except for the diarrhea. I know you will do what's best for your boy and I sure hope he can be kept comfortable for many months to come. :(


{{{hugs}}} :(

[catmandu]

Jen, I Am So Sorry To Hear About Lucas.
Its The Worst Thing In The World When The Vet Comes Out And Says I Have Bad News About Your Friend.
Those Are Words Every Pet Guardian Dreads.
I Have Major Les As I Know How Special Lucas Was To You.
I Wish I Had The Right Words, I Will Just Have To Say Im Sorry.

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Jen, I hope you don't mind, but I found a picture of your sweet boy so everyone can see who we're talking about.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v142/JenLuckenbach/Cats/Lucas/Lucas11-9-05.jpg
Lucas

[Killearn Kitties]

Oh Jen, I am so sorry. To have resisted all that treatment, Lucas' condition must have been serious, but I am so, so sorry to hear this.

Lots of hugs to you and Lucas tonight.

[kimlovescats]

Oh Jen, I am so very sorry! I agree with just making him comfortable.
((((((((((((HUGS)))))))))))) to you!!! Give Charlie my regards as well.

Kim :(

[Laura's Babies]

Jen... what can I say that would comfort you? I am at a loss for words. Just love him more and harder than ever and we will keep him and you in our prayers!

[K & L]

Oh Jen I'm just seeing this and so sorry. Gosh this makes my problem seem so minor.

[catlover4ever]

Jen (((HUGS))) I'm so sorry to hear about Lucas. I'm sending prayers and good thoughts to you and Lucas. What a handsome orangie

Again I'm so very sorry. :(

[Kirsten]

Oh (((((Jen))))))!!! I'm so sorry! :( :( :(

I also don't know much to say, there don't seem to be any words of comfort here.... :( I'm really sorry! :(

Kirsten

[Cataholic]

I am so very sorry to hear about Lucas, Jen. Do what you can, when you can, and keep his greater good in the forefront. Many prayers being sent up. :(

[Grace]

So very sorry to hear this news. Sending prayers and hugs for all of you.

[Edwina's Secretary]

I add a very inadequate....I'm am so sorry to hear of this....

[Randi]

Jen, I'm so very sorry to hear this. :( :( Lucas is such a gorgegous boy and you must be devastated. It's a hard decision to make, but with 5 tumors it will be best for him. Give him all the loving you can, and extra kisses from me.


(((((hugs)))))

[orangemm]

Add me to the list of those who don't know what to say except I'm so sorry to hear this and my heart goes out to you and to Lucas. :(

He is such a beautiful boy and I know you love him dearly.

((((hugs)))) to all of you.

[DJFyrewolf36]

My prayers are with you...the choice is difficult (I just went through this with my MIL's dog not too long ago)

I wish I could say more than I understand what you are going through

*hugs*

[Vermontcat]

Jen, I'm so sorry to hear that Lucas has cancer. :(
Sending hugs your way.

[rg_girlca]

If I Should Be;

If it should be I grow frail and weak
And pain prevents my peaceful sleep.
Then you must do what must be done
When this last battle can't be won.
You will be sad, I understand.
Selflessness might stay you hand
But on this day, move than the rest,
Your love and friendship take the test.

We've had so many happy years
That what's to come can hold no fears.
You do not want me to suffer. So,
When the time comes, please let me go.

Take me where my needs they'll tend.
Only...stay with me until the end.
Hold my firm and speak to me.
Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time, you too will see
It is a kindness, that you do for me.
Although my tail, it's last has waved
From pain and suffering I've been saved.

Do not grieve it should be you
Who must decide this thing to do.
We've been so close, we two, these years.
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

Just look in my eyes,
It is I, who will let you know
When it is time to let me go,
To say goodbye.

((((((HUGS)))))) Jen and Charlie

[jenluckenbach]

Thank you all.

I have yet to speak to my regular vet (ultrasound specialist only gives his finding, treament and other options are fro my regular vet) So I don't really know anyting at this time except I don't feel a lot of hope.

Lorraine, the poem rings true, but it sure brings the tears.

I really don't even know what to say right now, but I sure appreciate all the good thoughts.

Of course ALL our pets are special in their way, but Lucas has always been such a good boy. Cheerful, loving of both people and the other cats, never a bad or evil thought or action. Just as gentle as could be.


Needless to say, a whole lot of squishing is going on!

[Catty1]

Oh, Jen....how awful. I am so sorry for you and Lucas...

Yes, I wonder WHY the specialist thought that chemo would be the option???? It will sure be good to get the point of view from a vet that knows you and your baby.

It sounds hopeless...maybe your vet will have a reason why it might be worth a shot? Prayers are with you.

Good luck, and you will make the best and most loving decision, I know that.

hugs hugs hugs
Catty1

[prechrswife]

((((Hugs)))) I am so sorry to hear this. :( Give Lucas lots of cuddles...

[G535]

I'm so sorry to hear this too, I'm sure you'll make the time left as comfortable as possible for him. :(

[Craftlady]

So sorry to read the news from the ultrasound wasnt good.

[jenluckenbach]

My own vet finally called and suggested "depo injections". I am unsure exactly what this is (I think it is a steroid) but the point is that she believes that is can help.

It would only be one injection every 3 to 4 weeks. She has seen a patient with similar tumors thrive for a year now after the parents were concidering euthanasia.

Since Lucas is not really acting sick in any way OTHER than the diarrhea, it is certainly worth a try for a few months.

I'll call in the morning for my first appointment.

Wish us luck.

[Catty1]

Prayers that this helps Lucas!

I wonder if that would get the tumours down to treatable size?

hugs! This is hopeful news at least!

Catty1

[AbbyMom]

Jen
I'm so sorry to hear about Lucas' tumors. But since I am just now reading this, I see there's also a little ray of hope.

We all know that you'll do the right thing for him.

Prayers & Hugs.

[jenluckenbach]

I should take a minute to answer a few questions.


but I must ask why you have decided not to use chemotherapy since cats do well on it, usually, and don't have as many side issues as humans

Well, I don't really know a whole lot about CATS and chemo........but I know it makes humans feel badly but we can understand that we must feel bad in order to get better. to me an animal only knows he now hurts WORSE. Besides all the people who HAVE done this with their pets only to lose their pets (AND all the money too). And many say they will never repeat the insident for another pet. :(


, I wonder WHY the specialist thought that chemo would be the option????

Because it is multi systemic it is most likely mast cell cancer. I was told that this doctor is VERY blunt, so if he did not give other options he probably felt confident that this is the only way.

______________________________________

I won't make the promise to do "everything possible" for Lucas, because I do not believe in those types of heroic measures, but my vet sounded confident and hopeful that this can keep him comfortable for more time than if we did nothing, which makes it worth a try.

[Uabassoon]

Jen I'm so sorry to hear about Lucas. You will be in my thoughts, those shots sound like a good option for him.

[Karen]

Oh dear, Jenn, I hope the tumors are small enough and the depo injections can help 'em shrink. But for now, you still have your Lucas-sunshine.

My brother and his wife (Lady's Human and Lady's Other Human) lost their Lukas to cancer. But in his case, the tumor had gotten too large to do anything about before he showed any real signs of sickness. He was also a very, very fluffy boy (black longhair) otherwise they might have noticed something.

[kuhio98]

Prayers for you and Charlie and Lucas. I'm glad to hear that there may be some options.

[rosethecopycat]

No matter what happens, it's not the number of days he is with you, it's about how strongly you love with the days you have.

All the Best.

[Lizzie]

Dude, one of my FIV+ cats, gets monthly depo injections to keep his stomatitis under control. It's an intramuscular injection that you can do at home after they show you how. Of course, being a steroid, it also makes him feel good overall. Hopefully, the injections can shrink the tumors for some time or at the very least greatly slow their growth. It would be great if a side effect of the injections helps with his diarrhoea also.

I mentioned the possibility of following through on chemotherapy because I have seen cases where it has worked, and I've met a few cats on the therapy who didn't have any side effects apart from throwing up for a day after the therapy. I've also heard about many cases where it hasn't worked and both cat and guardian have gone through the trauma for nothing. I was told by one vet that the problem with giving cats chemotherapy is not that it's hell on them but that cats (and don't we know this to be true!) don't show symptoms until the cancer is far enough advanced that treatment is more last-minute than it should be. It works better on dogs only because they show symptoms much sooner. When I was offered chemotherapy for a few of my cats, I asked about the chances of it working and they were not good because the cancer was too far advanced, so I didn't take that route either. I think vets offer chemotherapy because they know the caregiver/guardian wants to hear there could be some form of treatment. I'm sure your vet will talk about the odds with you.

Are you spending the evening cuddling Lucas close?

[Catty1]

Just in case, Jen - I wonder if IMOM covers chemo treatments, or other ones?

You know your PT friends will help out, if you make that decision.

HUGS
Catty1

[Randy_K]

Having done chemo on a cat who had colon cancer, I learned all we did was prolong his life so long as he was receiving chemo. The moment that stopped the cancer took him from us in less than two weeks. His life wasn't good and he suffered while on chemo. Even in his last moments he showed that he loved us so. I would never do it again. I'd rather have made his last few weeks with us comfortable and painless.

[Laura's Babies]

Jen, whatever happens, you know we are with you and support you to the fullest!

[shais_mom]

so sorry to hear this Jen.
hugs on the way

[Maya & Inka's mommy]

I'm so sorry....http://users.pandora.be/bernardgabriels/images/smilies%20953%20crying.gif http://users.pandora.be/bernardgabriels/images/smilies%20953%20crying.gif !!

I hope that this treatment brings improvement. But if not, giving him all the love and care he needs is the best answer :)
http://users.pandora.be/bernardgabriels/images/smilies%20477%20zetelkat.gif

[ChrisH]

Oh, Jen, I am so sorry. Prayers, love and many hugs on the way for Lucas and you.

[CultureJunky]

That is terrible news, I'm so sorry. I'm sure you'l do what's best for Lucas and that he'll have the best possible options.
Me, Jack and Sunny send prayers and hugs for Lucas.

[Donnaj4962]

I am so sorry to hear about Lucas. It sounds like your vet and you will make the right decision. I will keep all of you in my prayers. Give Lucas some kissies and a luvvin!

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

Here's hoping there's a little more ray of hope after the vet visit for the first shot....today?

Jen, one question you might want to ask the vet is how will you know the shots are working? Will there be any outward signs or will you have to take him back for another ultrasound after a few rounds of shots? It would be eally nice if there was some outward sign - like less diarrhea - to let you know that you're doing the right thing.

{{{hugs}}}

[Lobodeb]

I'm speechless (for once.)

((((((((((((((((((((((((((((HUGS)))))))))))))))))) )))))))))))

[Beauty17]

I am sorry for the pain and struggle of having to decide how to treat such serious illness in a beloved friend. If you do decide to keep your Lucas comfortable without radical treatment, I hope you can do so - that you are empowered to do so and given the means (meds, whatever). That you have the love to transmit goes without saying. We are keeping you in our thoughts, because we know how sorrowful this time is.

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Poor Lucas, poor you :(

[krazyaboutkatz]

Jen, I'm so sorry to hear about Lucas.:( I hope that the shots will be able to make him feel more comfortable and that he'll also be able to spend some more time with you and your family. I haven't been able to be around as much as I'd like to but please know that you're in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[momoffuzzyfaces]

Aw, Jen!!! This just breaks my heart.
I hope you will have some time left together for hugs and cuddles.
He will know he's loved when he makes the trip to the bridge no matter when it is. :(

[kb2yjx]

Jen, you are going thru the same decisions that we had to make for Ralph Syracuse just last month. I think you are doing the right thing but not doing the chemo. After hearing how much time Ralph would have to spend at the vet's, the bloodwork, all the sticks with needles, I could not see any good quality of life for Ralph. Even with the prednisone, there are very good days, good days, and very bad days. So far, there have been more good ones. You are thinking about Lucas, and even thought it is very sad for you to imagine Lucas not being there for you, you are putting him first. I know I do not have to say to give him lots of hugs, you are already doing that. Take Care, prayers for Lucas and you. Sandra

[elizabethann]

Sorry to read about this. I will send good thoughts your kitties way.

[catmandu]

Jen We Are Praying That These Shots Will Help Lucas.
Y.lee Angel Has Returned To See Lucas With Angels Angel To See If They Cant Help.
The Pet Angels Will Bring Lucas Special Kitty Bags From The Hotels, And Kitty Angel Kisses.
We Are Praying For Lucas.

[smokey the elder]

I'm so sorry about Lucas. Five visible tumors is definitely not encouraging. At this stage the steroids probably won't do any harm and will probably make him feel better.

Not to hijack, but I have to put in two cents about chemo. I've had two cats go through it. The value of chemo very much depends on the kind of tumor. In both cases it had minimal quality of life effect on the cat. Pink Nose did not even lose a single whisker.

{{Hugs}} to you and Lucas.

[Vio&Juni]

Jen, I am sorry to hear this about dear Lucas - he's always been my favourite of your kitties.

I hope the shots help.

[rg_girlca]

[QUOTE=jenluckenbach]My own vet finally called and suggested "depo injections". It would only be one injection every 3 to 4 weeks. She has seen a patient with similar tumors thrive for a year now after the parents were concidering euthanasia.

I pray that this treatment helps Lucas just as much as the patient that your vet described.

Prayer, positive thoughts and wishing you all the best of luck with this Jen.

((((((HUGS))))))

[jenluckenbach]

Well, Lucas went for his first shot tonight. A quick procedure. I am to report in a week with any updates (hoping that less diarrhea is one of the effects).

Since his pills (pancrenzyme) and his special food (Eukanuba Low Residue) are no longer preventing the diarrhea, we can stop giving the twice daily pills (I am sure Lucas won't mind ;) ) and he can go back to the regular food that he enjoys so much more (c/d).

Poor Lucas is probably soaking wet from all the smooches I have given him from all of you. :D :D :D But he never complains. Such a good boy, he is.

[rg_girlca]

Keeping finger, toes and paws crossed that you will see an improvement in Lucas by the end of the week.

You will all be in my prayers.

((((((HUGS))))))

[Pembroke_Corgi]

I'm so sorry to hear about Lucas. :( I'll be thinking of him and hoping his new treatment will help.

[lute]

i'm sooo sooo very sorry about Lucas. :(

add one more set of ((((((((HUGS))))))))) for both of you.

[Laura's Babies]

Jen, I have to leave in the morning to go back to work but I want you to know I will be thinking of both of you all trip and remembering you and your sweet baby in my prayers.

[christa]

Jen: Haven't been on much lately but I was just stunned to hear about Lucas! I am so sorry!

Yes, the depo injections are basically a steriod/prednisone shot. Josie gets them for her asthma. She gets one called "depo-medrol 20mg" . . . every 4-12 weeks.

I hope that it does help Lucas and maybe keeps him comfortable & around a little while longer!

{{{Hugs}}} to you & *scritches* to Lucas!!!

You're all in our prayers!!!

edit: I just wanted to add that I never really saw any side effects in Josie from the injections, other than her increased appetite around the time of the injection. Of course prednisone does that to anybody! Kind of hypes her up a little too. Nothing bad though.

[jazzcat]

I hope the shots will help.

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

So glad to hear all went well with the shot, and it sounds like a shot now and then is a piece of cake if he doesn't have to take pills and can now have his yummy food back.

skritchies to sweet Lucas! :)

Oh, and just curious, with Peanut's tumor, the vet gave me signs of what to look for to tell the tumor was getting worse. He said she would start straining to pee and there would probably be blood in her urine. Did your vet give you any signs to look for? I would think it would be similar signs, like straining to poop and blood? Just curious. :)

[beeniesmom]

Just saw this. I am praying that the treatment goes well.
Noone should ever have to face these things. Hugs

[Logan]

Jen, having been through a similar episode so recently with Zipper, you know that my heart is just in my throat when I read about Lucas. I'm so glad that you at least have some kind of alternative that might give him some quality of life and more time with you.

You have always been so supportive of me and loving in your responses when I am grieving or worried. I hope you know that my prayers and thoughts are with you and Charlie and of course, Lucas.

Give that precious orange boy a gentle kiss on his sweet nose from me, please.

Logan

[jenluckenbach]

Oh, and just curious, with Peanut's tumor, the vet gave me signs of what to look for to tell the tumor was getting worse. He said she would start straining to pee and there would probably be blood in her urine. Did your vet give you any signs to look for? I would think it would be similar signs, like straining to poop and blood? Just curious
No, we really haven't have time to talk about a lot of things. But when I call to report I'll try to get more info.

[Barbara]

Just to say that I think of you and your sweet boy.

[K & L]

I keep watching for updates. Good luck with this.

[jenluckenbach]

UNBELIEVABLE Lucas' poops are actually forming into very soft logs only 1 day after his first shot. Will they be even better tomorrow??

I am not sure how the tumors are going to be affected, but Lucas' poop has been liquid for 3 weeks straight, so this is an astounding improvement.

(of course, my house is a maze of plastic tarps covering the carpets, as mr. Lucas hasn't used a litter box in months. :( ) Good thing I never get company. :rolleyes:

[G535]

The first thread I looked at today and good news already! :)

[Lobodeb]

This is fantastic. Un dia la vez, Lucas. One day at a time. I try not to underestimate the power of PT prayers, and they seem to be working their magic here too.

Come on, Lucas. You've got a lot of people pulling for you!

((((((((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))))) to you both!

[Lizzie]

Good news! That must have made both you and Lucas feel good. Let's hope it works on the tumors as well as it works on making him feel better overall.

I know what you mean about plastic tarps everywhere. I have plastic draped over all sofas and chairs then skirted and taped onto the carpet (spraying problems). This morning I tried to sit on my usual sofa with a direly needed cuppa and fell off as all the blankets slid on the plastic.

[catmandu]

The Orange Division of the Pet Angel Army is sending some Orange Cats to be with Lucas 24/7, to comfort him.
They are bringing Kitty Bags to help Lucass poos.
They love Big Lucas, as do we ALL.

[jenluckenbach]

Lucas was so playful last night, like a kitten, that a person would never guess that he is sick. I am encouraged that the shots can help him feel good (even if they do not CURE him). And life is all about QUALITY! (not quantity).

[Killearn Kitties]

Oh Jen, I'm pleased to hear Lucas is feeling playful. I really hope the injections keep that going as long as possible.
Give Lucas a snuggle for me?

[Sonia59]

I am very glad to read that Lucas is feeling good!
Kisses and scritches to you, Lucas.

[Ally Cat's Mommy]

Jen, I would trust you above anyone else to do what is right for MY cats, and I know you will do whatever is best for darling Lucas. I'm so glad to hear that the injection has improved his current symptoms - and given him back some QUALITY of life, as you said - that's so important.

You are both in my thoughts and prayers.

[jazzcat]

That is a great update Jen. You are right, it's all about quality and it sounds like his is improving greatly.

Please give Lucas a hug for me.

[gini]

Jen, I just saw this thread and have read it from start to finish.

My heart goes out to you as you treat Lucas and I hope you see improvement every day.

My how these orange boys grip our heart - there is nothing like them!