Please help save Sydney's life!

[kittykatharine]

For anyone that has not been following Sydney's story here is a recap of the worst two weeks of my life. Sydney, my kitty that I have had for 13 years was diagnosed with an aggressive form of nasal Lymphoma. Two weeks ago, she developed this strange swelling on her head, and was taken to the vets immediatly. Since that first visit, she has had steriod shots, antibiotics, a biopsy, mass removal, pain medication, blood work, etc. costing a total of $850. This morning my vet called me back and told me that it will cost $5,000 for Sydney to get the linear acceleration radiation therapy needed to save her life. There is not one veterinarian oncologist within a 250 mile raduis for me to get a second opinion - as it is I have to travel to Auburn, AL. a 3 1/2 hour drive and leave her there for 3 weeks, to have the treatment. I am an unmarried poor college student, who has already spent all my existing money on her vet bills. I love this cat like she is my own child, my baby, my best friend in the whole world. I have been so devastated this entire week that I am just crumbling. I have a treatment that will save my Baby's life, but because of money, I have to watch her die. I have scrambled up $2000 from my tuition and family members, but I am still $3000 short. Please if you can donate anything it would greatly be appreciated. The link to PayPal is at the very bottom. My baby and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts.




Sincerely,
Desperate Kat


Just Click the bottom link to be sent to Paypal. Thank you so much for your generosity.


Donate Now Through PAYPAL (https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_donations&business=argonautkatie%40hotmail%2ecom&item_name=Sydney%27s%20Cancer%20Treatment%20Fund&no_shipping=0&no_note=1&tax=0&currency_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8)

UPDATE (6-13-08): Sydney is now receiving her cancer treatment at the following location:
Cordova Animal Medical Center
2433 E. Langley Ave.
Pensacola, FL 32504
Phone: (850) 479-2222
Veterinarian: Dr. Shelly Ashley
Patient: Sydney
Species: Feline
Owner: Katharine G. Herman

If you would like to make a donation directly to the vet, please contact them there.




http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/mama.jpg

[Moesha]

Did you try to get funding from IMOM? I would be glad to donate something, although I am afraid it won't be very much. I was just wondering if you are trying other sources as well?

Is this treatment very successful? I sure hope so! Have you talked with the vets in Auburn yet?

[kittykatharine]

Thanks so much Moesha, every little penny helps me a little bit. IMOM and the dozen other agencies I tried are no longer accepting applicants because of low donations and too many pets to help. I have talked to the vets in Auburn and my vet here, and they said that it is extremely sucessful at putting the cancer into remission. They reported that it will at YEARS to her life and that if she had a cancer, this was one of the best to get. That is why I am so distraught - this is a life saving procedure, that just happens to cost an arm and a leg. Thank you again for being so wonderful, we truly appreciate any help, even if it is $1.00.



Did you try to get funding from IMOM? I would be glad to donate something, although I am afraid it won't be very much. I was just wondering if you are trying other sources as well?

Is this treatment very successful? I sure hope so! Have you talked with the vets in Auburn yet?

[Moesha]

Is there a way to contact the vet directly and donate through them either via credit card or by mailing a check. I know that PayPal takes a percentage of each transaction and maybe if donations when directly to the vet doing the procedure the entire amount donated would actually go toward the treatment. I can only imagine the difficult time you are going through. Would the vet be willing to take payments and do you have to have the entire amount before they will do anything? I'm hoping for the best for your dear Sydney. I have a Sydney of my own. She showed up as a kitten and has been here 7 years and won't let anyone touch her. I'm glad your Syds is your baby.

[Catty1]

I can send a bit to the vet - will they accept a minimum down payment to get going and arrange a payment plan?

It's a three week treatment - do they need ALL the money up front?

Also, Google Care Credit - there is a section in there for pets. It is a loan - but interest free if paid back inside 3 months.

That way you can get the amount for Sydney, and focus on fundraising to pay the loan back. I will have more to donate in early July - so look into that too!

[kittykatharine]

My vet is calling to make me an appointment with a specific vet at Auburn tomorrow. As soon as I know the doctors name, I will post it. I was told they are expecting the full payment when I pick her up at the end of the treatment, so three weeks from when I drop her off. I am also going to try applying with care credit. I am just worried about how I am going to eat and live since I don't make more than $200 every two weeks as a student assistant. But, delaying the cost gives me more time to find some additional assistance. I am just happy that this gives Sydney a fighting chance.








I can send a bit to the vet - will they accept a minimum down payment to get going and arrange a payment plan?

It's a three week treatment - do they need ALL the money up front?

Also, Google Care Credit - there is a section in there for pets. It is a loan - but interest free if paid back inside 3 months.

That way you can get the amount for Sydney, and focus on fundraising to pay the loan back. I will have more to donate in early July - so look into that too!

[Catty1]

WOOHOO!

And here is another link I found in Dog Health - it might be a bit much for you, but I don't know how they work, so check it out!

https://www.fundable.com/startcollection

ETA: I sent a little bit! It will be more in early July!

[Pawsitive Thinking]

Just sent my donation :love:

[jenluckenbach]

Just an idea. there is a website called Wish Upon A Hero. You make a wish! You could wish for donations for Sydney. You may get some responses, it is worth a try.

http://www.wishuponahero.com/

You should also plan some fundraising.

[Catty1]

kittykatherine: for fundraising, here's some ideas, and brainstorm with a friend at school or with family:

1. Find stuff to sell on eBay
2. Find stuff to have a garage sale with.
3. Find a place at your school that will allow you to have a pic of Sydney and a fundraising can...a place here in my town wanted to raise 1 million pennies, which is (I think) $10,000! So look at raising "Half a million pennies!" (and buy a few bags of penny rollers lol). No one misses their pennies.

4. The bar/cafeteria - would they hold a special evening?

I can't think of any more ideas, but maybe you can...just get Sydney started on treatment and the rest will fall into place!:)

[kittykatharine]

Thank you everyone so much! And thank you so much Catty1 and Brody'sMum for the donations. Sydney and I appreciate it from the bottoms of our heart. I had some good news today, my vet was able to pull some strings and get me an appointment at the Auburn vet clinic tomorrow at 10 am. I have packed Sydney her favorite blanket that smells like home, a stuffed animal that is always on my bed, and several cans of her favorite food, in case they have trouble feeding her. I am really scared for my little baby. She has never been away from me for longer than a week, I am going to be praying for her everyday. I am so worried that she is going to feel that I abandoned her. I will drive up their after a week and a half, and I was hoping if I call, maybe they can put her ear up to the phone. My vet assured me that this procedure has an excellent success rate and will add years to her life, if she can live through the chemo and radiation. I am so worried for her, but it has to be done. If you are interested in leaving a donation at the hospital, here is the contact information:


UPDATE (6-13-08): Sydney is now receiving her cancer treatment at the following location:
Cordova Animal Medical Center
2433 E. Langley Ave.
Pensacola, FL 32504
Phone: (850) 479-2222
Veterinarian: Dr. Shelly Ashley
Patient: Sydney
Species: Feline
Owner: Katharine G. Herman

If you would like to make a donation directly to the vet, please contact them there.


Again, thank you everyone for your support and prayers!

[Moesha]

I will call and make a donation either tomorrow or Thursday. I'm not sure if I will be home when the hospital will be opened tomorrow. I'll plan on waiting for an update from you tomorrow and calling them on Thursday. I will be hoping for good news for you and dear Sydney.

[Catty1]

When you get there, you will get to see how the staff are with animals. Tell them about your worries, that Sydney has never been away from home for so long!

Glad you are sending some things with her that smell like 'home'. Got a t shirt you haven't washed yet? Throw that in too! :):p

Sydney looks still quite perky from what you said - she is eating and all - so hopefully it is a good start for her!

Maybe ask them about the Regressin - though the treatment sounds pretty effective! :D

[Freedom]

Check this link for other ways to find funding:
http://www.tinypamperedpets.com/servlet/the-template/emergencypetresources/Page

Below the Tribute to Romeo is a listing of possibilities.

Prayers for Sydney. Please let us know as you learn more!

[momtomany]

I sent a small donation. I know it wasn't much, but every little bit helps. Prays for you and Sydney. Please keep us posted.

[kittykatharine]

So I went to Auburn today, and Sydney went through a battery of tests - kidney, spleen, and bone marrow aspirations, ultrasound, blood tests, ct scan, the works, and we found out that the Lymphoma has spread to one of her kidneys, making the Lymphoma systemic, and therefore Sydney not a candidate for the acceleration radiation therapy. When my vet did a ultrasound this past monday, apparently she missed all of that. Well, this means I had to take Sydney home. We are now going to have to start her on a very intense series of chemotherapy treatments over the next 6 months. Lets just say it was a long ride home. Ironically, since the chemo needs this super potent agent added to the normal COP protocol, it is still going to cost $4500, on top of the $600 I charged today for the tests. So here I go again. Sydney, is happy to be home, and I started her on her prednisone tonight. I am happy that she is home for me, but saddened by the fact that her cancer is more serious then first expected. I am still praying that the chemo will work. I will keep everyone posted with what happens next. Again thank you everyone for your support and help.

[Moesha]

I am so sorry to hear this news. I kept checking to read a good update. Did they give you an indication of how successful this treatment is? Can Sydney get the treatments from a vet close to home? Can you post the vet information for who is giving the chemo so that donations can be made to them? I sure hope for the best possible outcome for you and Sydney. Give her lots of love.

[Catty1]

Oh, no. HUGS and major prayers for you and Sydney!

I gather she will be having the chemo locally?

Let us know, we will help however we can! Give Sydney extra hugs and cuddles from me.

Good news that aggressive chemo will be tried.

HUGS!

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear this.:( At least she'll be able to be home with you. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[jenluckenbach]

I am so sorry. :( Hopefully the chemo will work for Sydney.

[kittykatharine]

What a horrible morning. So I called my vet this morning to talk about starting the chemo Friday if at all possible. My vet told me she needed to talk to the vet in Auburn first before she will order the chemo medication - and here is the catch, she told me I have to order the ENTIRE 6 mnths worth of chemo protocal and pay the total amount for the entire protocol up front. Here is my problem with this, Sydney looks like she is dying, and being completely aware of the severity of the situation, I know that she may not live through the entire 6 month protocol. So basically if she dies during the first administration of chemo, I am responsible for the 6 months of drugs. I told my vet to call me back when she was done talking with the Auburn vet. So my vet called me back an hour later and said that the Auburn vet said to start the chemo ASAP, and then my vet tells me that she has some EXPIRED chemo drugs she can use at a discounted price (only $600 off the $4500 price) if I am interested. I am not a pharmacist but I know that medications have expiration dates because of their prospective shelf life. With drugs like chemo, being extremely sensitive to temperature and storage, the drugs she was trying to give me, which were 18 mnths past the expiration date, could very well be ineffective. I called the vet in Auburn and got her opinion and I ended up finding a new vet. I hate to do this to Sydney when she is so sick and vulnerable but I just don't feel that she is getting the care she deserves. Anyways, I have a 2:30 appointment with the new vet that quoted having an interest in feline oncology. Another issue I had is that my vet had me pay $300 for an ultrasound when she wasnt qualified to even read it - her results where that sydney's liver looked funny, when the specialist in Auburn found a destinct mass on Sydney's kidney. Just like in human medicine, you would never have a family care physician perform surgery, so why did she charge me for a service that she wasnt trained for? Sydney is going to have a repeat ultrasound done 5 weeks after she has started chemo (we are starting her monday hopefully), and this new vet clinic has a trained specialist for reading ultrasounds. I just pray that this change in vets is in Sydney's best interest. I am very exhausted, mentally and emotionally, and this is really starting to wear on me. Please continue to pray for us.

[Moesha]

Thank you again for updating us. How terrible the things you have been going through are! I am so glad that you found out about the current vet now rather than later part way through a treatment program with Sydney. The chemotherapy and the ultrasound inaccuracies are very disturbing. Please keep us posted. You and Sydney continue to be in my thoughts frequently.

[jennielynn1970]

Oh my gosh. I would be so upset with the previous vet! First, the fact that they were not qualified to read the ultrasound, and secondly to offer expired chemo drugs, and not just 1month old, but a year and a half old!!! :eek: I wonder if they should still have their license?? I wonder if you can file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau or something, and at least get a partial reimbursement for the reading that was done incorrectly?

I hope that the new vet will give some options for you, and have some kind of a reasonable payment plan. If I can help after I get some of my bills paid (I was on FMLA and getting basically no paycheck for the past 2 months), I'll donate what I can. I know I'd be a wreck if it were me, but hang in there, and definitely try some of the fund raising ideas.

One thing that I had done for our rescue group was I gave them an IPOD that I had won at a raffle and had no use for. I just don't use those kinds of thing, and was going to sell it on ebay. The IPOD was a new DV one (two years ago, we're talking now), and worth about $300.00. We actually raffled it off and raised almost $1000. The tickets only were $1, so we sold a lot of them. But even if they had been $2 or 3tickets for $5. I think it would have been even more successful.

Have a yard sale, or porch sale, or if you have a YMCA or something close by where kids go, have the penny donations. The kids did that at the one school where I worked, Pennies for Patients, and Pennies for Veterans, and raised a decent amount, even though we were a low income school. Many times the people who have little to give will give more because they know how much it's needed and how appreciated every little bit is.

Good luck, and let us know what the new vet says. I'll try to help out however I can as well.

[kittykatharine]

to add to the horrible day - my old vet that I just replaced, just called me and let me know that the records that she sent to Auburn where the ORIGINAL records, and now I have no record of all the procedures I have had done in the last three weeks! Why is everything working against me? I am trying everything I can, and I just want to save my baby's life. Aubrn couldnt fax the original vet paperwork because it is not "their work", so I am trying to get them to fax or send it to me. But, it is 4:26 on a Thursday, I probably won't get a hold of her. I just don't know what to do. ***sobbing***

[jennielynn1970]

Will they mail it to you? If it's the originals, and you need it for the new vet, why are they being so unhelpful! I'd be in a car and driving there tomorrow and yanking it out of their hands. If it's not their work, then they should have no problem marking it as such and getting it to where it needs to go. How inconsiderate and unthoughtful of these people. I wish there was a way we could help with this...

[jennielynn1970]

Can you have the new vet contact Auburn and talk to them and have them understand that they know it's not their work, but it is imperative that the paperwork gets faxed ASAP? Maybe one vet to another they'll do it.

Hang in there!

[Catty1]

Right, Jenn! KK, ask your new vet to help...one vet to another will do a lot.

HUGS!

[kittykatharine]

I got the wonderful student vet at Auburn to fax me the files from my original vet - One successful feat for today. Tommorrow is my consultatation with my new vet, I will keep everyone updated. (I have made copies of all the vet files for my own personal file - never will I make a mistake like that again.). Thank you everyone and wish us luck tommorrow!

[kittykatharine]

Also, I am going to sell all my formal dresses from my high school proms - hopefully I will be able to sell some of them - I am also going to sell my jewerly that is worth anything - hopefully that will help me a bit! Im staying hopeful!

[Freedom]

I am s sorry to read all these updates. Not bad enough that you are worried sick about your dear sweet Sydney, but the first vet messed up, the files got confusing for a time there . . . UGH!! I'd have my finger nails down to the quick by now! Hang in there, lots of us are praying for you and your Sydney.

When you can calm down a bit, consider contacting your state's veterinary licensing board about that first vet and see what they think. Doesn't sound proper to me: ultrasound not qualified to read; offering meds 18 months past expiration; sending ORIGINAL files out???? They are the proper group to handle a complaint and they can say if one should be filed. BBB doesn't normally handle professionals, at least not that I am aware.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to read that you had such a bad day.:( Like others have already said, I'd try to report your old vet. What she did is inexcusable.:mad: I hope that your new vet will be able to help you and he/she sure sounds much more qualified too. When my Starr was very sick, I decided to go and get a second opinion because my old vets just didn't seem to know what to do for him. Now I have a new vet clinic and a wonderful new very caring vet.:) Good luck.:) Sydney continues to remain in my thoughts and prayers. Please take care.

[kittykatharine]

Thank you so much for this link - I have gone ahead and posted my wish - hopefully someone will come to my aid. Thank you for the great resource!



Just an idea. there is a website called Wish Upon A Hero. You make a wish! You could wish for donations for Sydney. You may get some responses, it is worth a try.

http://www.wishuponahero.com/

You should also plan some fundraising.

[kittykatharine]

Ok everyone, here is an UPDATE! I just got back from my consultation with my new vet and I really like her:). She seemed very knowleagble and was extremely helpful. Sydney's right eye has been swollen shut ever since I had her biopsy done last week and I had taken her to my old vet twice after that and she just looked at it and said it was fine - no tests or lights or anything. With the new vet, The second she walked in the room she was like, "tell me what is up with that eye". She put some pain drops in her eye and stained it and looked for any abnormalities and found that the fluid in between her cornea and lens was inflammed. She gave me drops to help ease the pain and swelling. Secondly, my old vet would charge $25 for a shot of pain medicine that only lasted 72 hours and wouldnt give me any pain meds for home- so I was paying the $25 for the shot and $28 for a "checkup". This vet gave me 6 syringes of pain medicine and told me that she is not stingy with pain medicine, so to just ask if needed - and they were only $13 for all six. My new vet said that she was going to call all the vet hospitals around my area to see if their were any radiation studies she could get sydney into - which would be significantly cheaper! Also, she has three pets on chemo already, and said that she has given this type of treatment many times before. She is going to call me later tonight and give me an estimate on the chemotherapy treatment costs - although she stated it will probably cost the same as the other place. I am just happy that she seems to be more knowledgable and able to help - I am just so sad that it took me this long to find her. She seemed to emphasize sydneys comfort - which the other vet seemed to forget. Keep us in your prayer.

If you are still intersted in making a donation to help with Sydney's chemo treatment, this is my new permenant vet contact information:

Cordova Animal Medical Center
2433 E. Langley Ave.
Pensacola, FL 32504
Phone: (850) 479-2222
Veterinarian: Dr. Shelly Ashley
Patient: Sydney
Species: Feline
Owner: Katharine G. Herman

Thank you so much for your support and prayers - you guys on pet talk are the only thing that has made this expereince bearable. Thank you!

[Moesha]

I just called the vet's office and used a credit card to apply to your account. I talked with a very nice lady. She said she would mail my credit card receipt to me tomorrow. Just make sure that it gets applied. I told them it wasn't a secret. I wish I was able to give more, but maybe I'll be able to give more later. Please keep us posted and I'm so glad she was concerned with keeping Sydney comfortable with pain meds.

[kittykatharine]

Moesha,

Thank you so much! You truly are an angel! Sydney and I appreciate it from the bottom of our hearts! You have been so wonderful and helpful, words can't even describe how thankful I am for your help. I can promise all of you this, once I am in a position where I can help out others, I promise that I will - just knowing how all of you have helped me so much, I want to be able to repay that to someone in the future that may be in the same situation as I am. Again thank you and I will keep everyone posted!



I just called the vet's office and used a credit card to apply to your account. I talked with a very nice lady. She said she would mail my credit card receipt to me tomorrow. Just make sure that it gets applied. I told them it wasn't a secret. I wish I was able to give more, but maybe I'll be able to give more later. Please keep us posted and I'm so glad she was concerned with keeping Sydney comfortable with pain meds.

[Moesha]

You and Sydney are very welcome. I wish I could help every animal in need and make them better. Sydney's story touched my heart, sort of like Emeraldgreen's Tiger. Did you hear anything from the vet tonight?

[kittykatharine]

OK, the vet called me this morning to go over the expected costs - for the chemo drugs, blood work, two ultrasounds, xrays, visit charges, and administration of drugs, and sadation if needed - the estimated cost was approximately $4100. This is only if there are no complications. My vet is still calling around to see if there are any raditation studies currently happening, but nothing yet. I have an appointment with her on Monday, so we can talk about the whole payment thing. Sydney is scheduled to start chemo on Wednesday, because it is going to take her that long to get the drug shipped to her. I just gave Sydney her prednisone and eye drops, and she seems to be feeling alright. She is so cute, she won't leave my side for a second. Anyways, hopefully, we are on our way towards remission. I will let everyone know how Monday goes and Sydney's first chemo treatment. Thanks everyone!

[Catty1]

HUGS and prayers!

I will have more money early in July...you have almost half (IF there are no complications, as you said) from your family, etc.

Your prom gowns should sell...it's that time of year, isn't it? ;)

Bake sale?

HUGS! Glad Sydney is being sweet!:)

[kittykatharine]

Sydney has developed a new and very unfortunate problem. She is having difficulty eating. Apparently the tumor in her face is pushing down on the right side of her mouth and she is no longer able to eat dry food or some of the wet food. I have been having to sit with her while she eats and pick up wet food and mold it into a mountain so it is easier for her to grasp. I know that if she stops eating all together, it will only be downhill from here. The vet told me it would take at least 4 or 5 weeks of chemo before I would notice any of the swelling in her face to decrease - I just hope that she can hang in there that long. It just seems like every time I help fix a problem, another one arises - it is very frustrating. Anyways, I hope everyone has a wonderful fathers day and I will be posting Sydney's reaction to her first chemo administration on wednesday. Thanks!

[Catty1]

Is Sydney getting any prednisone? There is another kind too, forget the name...

It's supposed to help the swelling...don't know if tablets would work, if there is a patch for it...maybe an injection (not INTO the tumour, unless the tumour itself doesn't have any nerve endings).

Prayers and positive thoughts for you and Sydney! :love:

[kittykatharine]

Sydney is on prednisone - we are currently crushing it and adding into some really soft food. This has been working really well so far, and the vet said that we could also add it to a little water and use a syringe to add into her mouth, if she has any further problems. I am trying to get her to eat as much as possible because I know once she starts the chemo, she may loose her appetite. I have her on this one wet food that says it is nutritionally balanced and I am giving her small helpings several times per day.

[jenluckenbach]

Is placing a feeding tube an option? that way you can always make sure she get the nutrition she needs until the swelling can go down. Also, ask about nutri-cal or other nutritional suppliment. Maybe it would help the food she DOES eat more "complete".

I am so sorry that every time there is progress, there is an equal set back. :( I know it is very hard to keep the faith. Prayers for Sydney.

[Emeraldgreen]

Wow, you guys have been through alot! I've just been catching up on all the latest posts in this thread and there have been so many developements since I last read!
I'm so sorry to hear that the cancer has been found in one of her kidneys but I was really relieved to hear that you have found a wonderful new vet. I think she will make this whole experience so much more managable for you, emotionally and financially. It sounds like Syndey will have a much better chance of success with a vet who has more experience and who is compassionate.

The prednisone usually increases a cat's appetite so hopefully that will help make her more hungry. Jen's suggestions of a feeding tube might be the way to go, especially when the chemo starts to ensure that she maintains her weight and health. But I guess you'll know soon if she continues to eat or not.
You might want to pick up all kinds of different cans of cat food to spark her interest. The stinkier the better. My cats LOVE the cat tuna and it is usually quite inexpensive as well.

If you find that it becomes difficult to give Sydney the prednsione mixed in her food, you can ask your vet about transdermal gel. The veterinary pharmacists can mix the prednisone into a cream and they load into a syringe and you simply squirt the dosage out (usually 1/10th of a ml which is a tiny amount) onto the back of a spoon and then you just smear it on the inside of her ear flap. Her body will absorb it and the prednisone will enter her system.
I used it for years for my cat Jimmy who has asthma and and IBD, both of which are helped with prednisone. If your vet thinks it's a good idea, she can order it from the pharmacy and have it delivered to the clinic, usually within the week.

I'm praying for both you and Sydney. Hang in there! :)
p.s. I will make a donation to the clinic tomorrow sometime. I wish I could give lots but right now I'm not able to. I will definitely donate something though!

[kittykatharine]

I swear, this experience has truly made me extremely jaded and angry towards the field of veterinarian science or heathcare in general. So I went to the vet to go over my consultation and they made a mistake and accidently left of 7 weeks worth of chemo off the estimate. My mother thank God came with me because all I could do during the eniture estimate was cry. The price for the 6 month chemo protocol has gone up another $1500. This makes the chemo now more expensive than the radiation treatment I originally wanted to get - and the estimate does not include outside prescriptions and complications. I have decided that I will start her on the chemo on Wednesday (max out the ole credit cards), but I am going to watch her very carefully. If it comes to the point that I dont think she can handle the chemo, then I will switch her to palliative care -where I will most likely be forced to put her to sleep when the pain becomes to much. The only nice thing is that the vet said she would come to my house and do it if it comes to that, that way Sydney can be in her home with the ones who love her most. She would be placed next to her companion that died two years ago due to a neglectful veterinarian that gave him a powerful steriod when he was having liver problems, which put him into liver failure and he died. Luckily he only sufferred for a week. When I was younger I had wanted to become a vet so badily. I volunteered at a vet hospital and everything becuase I new I loved animals and I wanted to help them. While I was there this horrible family came in and asked that there cat be put down because his health issues (which were not that bad) were becoming annoying - and the vet did just that put this innocent baby to sleep. I remember leaving that vet office knowing that I could never ever be in this profession because I have too much heart. So I chose to study mental health counseling and work with people who need help working with grief issues - irony. Horrible thing is, when I become a mental health counselor, you help others but get paid nothing. Here I am choosing a profession because I want to help others but when it comes down to it, even if I had graduated from school and everything, I still would not have been able to afford both the chemo and radiation therapy that was needed to save sydney - totalling now at $12,000. You'll have to forgive me, I have had such a hard three weeks and I have dedicated every free moment of my time to help her. Everytime I felt that I made some progress I got shot down with some dissappointment. Last night was the first night I actually slept well because I thought everything was going to be just fine -and of course it is not. This is the first time in my life that i have given my all at something and then failed anyways. I am just really upset.:(:(:(:(:(

[Catty1]

{{{{{HUGS}}}}}

If she had been the first vet you went to and one mistake was made, that would have been one thing - but you sure have had a lot of things hit you in a short time. :(

KK - you do have some funds to start this. 6 - even 3 - months is a long time in the fundraising department. I can't send anything til early July.

Keep checking back with iMom - donations come in and they can accept some cases again, and with you having raised a fair percentage of the money, that will help.

HUGS - Sydney loves you, you love her. Take care of yourself and be healthy for her, as much as you can.:love:

[moosmom]

kittykatharine,

You did NOT fail. You have done everything for that precious furbaby. I'd speak up and demand that the vet eat the cost of the other 7 weeks. It was THEIR mistake, not yours.

You and Syndney will be in my thoughts and prayers. You are a true angel and have earned your wings. Congratulations.

[momtomany]

Kitty Katherine,

Hang in there and keep the faith. I am so sorry that you and Sydney are having such a rough time. God is there listening to all of us Pet Talkers praying to him and he is hearing us.

I will try and send some more in two weeks when I get paid. It may not be much, but it all adds up.

Prayers and blessing to you both.

[Medusa]

Kittykatherine, failure is a word that definitely does not apply here. You've tried everything you can think of to help Sydney, so don't be so hard on yourself. Remember that "love never fails". People often think that scripture means "love always wins" but another way to look at it is that "love never gives up". (When we say that someone died of heart failure, it means that the heart failed, or "gave up".) You have not given up; you're still trying and you will continue to try for Sydney to make his life as comfortable as possible. You're doing a wonderful thing and Sydney knows it, too. :)

[kittykatharine]

I just thought I would share some pics of my baby Sydney after all the testing procedures:

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/Sydney_Face_Front.jpg

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/Sydney_Front_Porch.jpg

My beautiful baby is holding on, despite all the poking, shaving, etc. She thanks everyone for being so kind!

[Moesha]

Awww! Those are so sweet. Thanks for sharing them! Please give her hugs and rubs from me!

[jenluckenbach]

Oh my, look at that beautiful, special girl. :love: Hang on Sydney!

[Medusa]

Oh what a jewel she is! :love:

[Catty1]

Such a sweet face, after all the testing and stuff!

I hope the prednisone kicks in soon, and major PT Prayers going out to you and her for the first chemo treatment tomorrow.

HUGS! :love::love::love:

[momtomany]

Oh Sydney is so beautiful. Head bumps, purrs and scritches from the Dunn gang. We will keep the prayers going up.

[kittykatharine]

Newest problem to develop. I was supposed to take Sydney to the vet this morning for her first chemo treatment. I called before hand to see if she could be fed and given her medication(Prednisone). The tech was not sure, so she said she would call the vet and ask and call me right back. Five minutes later, she calls back and says, "i have some good news and some bad news". "The good news is that they can still do the chemo (i was thinking was there ever an issue that you couldnt do the chemo?), the bad news is, the pharmacy sent over the wrong dosage of drugs, so we cant start the chemo untill Friday". I was again very upset by this. The tech then had the nerve to say, "a few days wont make much of a difference". I had to stop her and say, "she has had a tumor growing on her face for THREE WEEKS!". The cancer probably spread to her kidneys while we were being thrown through rings of fires with testing and mistakes and traveling back and forth and waiting for results. I have spent $2000, just to be told how to treat her, and once again I have no treatment!!!!! I asked if I could pick it up and bring it over, and they said because of the type of drug it cant be delivered like that. Meanwhile, Sydney is getting worse - I had to give her another pain injection because I could tell me little baby wasnt feeling well. The tumor is making her teeth and mouth sore, so eating has become difficult as well. I just want my baby girl to be comfortable, it is so hard being her mommy and watching her suffer like she is. She comes to me for comfort and I cant help her because of these incompetent, heartless people. Has anyone ever put their cat to sleep before? Do they know what is happening? Do they just go to sleep? This may be my only option soon and I need to know more about it. Thank you.

[Emeraldgreen]

You must be so frustrated!!!:mad:
I hope that all will get back on track on Friday and that the chemo will make a difference.
If you find that you do have to put her to sleep, I can tell you how it has been for my cats. I've had to put down quite a few over the last 15-20 years, as I'm sure many of the PT'rs here have. Most of my cats were very old at the time. I've been fortunate to have the vet come to my home on some occasions and it sounds like this would be available to you as well? This is much more peaceful I think for both the owner and the pet.
I have always asked that a sedative be given (by injection) prior to them being put down. Within 5-10 minutes they become very drowsy and during this time I cuddle with them. When they are almost asleep, the doctor shaves their arm and gives them the final injection. It takes only seconds.
It is still very hard, very emotional and it takes awhile to get over it.
Please know that if you decide to do this, we're here for you.

On a brighter note... I pray that the chemo does it's job and that Sydney has an amazing future with you! Don't give up hope.

[GILL]

I am so sorry to hear of the pain and trouble that you are going through. We have lost babies out of respect to their pain and problems. It is never easy. Ginger had arthritis so bad that she could not use her hind legs. After watching her suffer we had no choice but to let her go. Four months later Missy through a clot that destroyed her rear nerves. 2 months later Patches realized that her sister Ginger was gone and just stopped eating. When a 6 lb. cat goes to 4 lbs. in two weeks there is no choice. Yes I’m crying as I write this even though they have been gone for over 6 years. But sometimes you have to love enough too let go. As I said it is never easy and as long as you have a memory they are always with you.
Our vet uses a sedative that lets them go to sleep, then the final injection is given. We have been with each of ours at passing.

[Medusa]

Should the time come when you have to help Sydney to the Bridge, please know that it's painless and quick and you can be right there w/her, holding her, soothing her and giving her the love that she has given you. It's the last act of kindness that we can do for our beloved pets. Unfortunately, I've had to do it several times through the years w/both dogs and cats and it isn't easy but then, it isn't about us, it's about helping our fur friend out of pain and suffering. God bless you for all that you're doing and have done for Sydney but never give up hope. I know that it's frustrating w/all that you're experiencing but things just may turn around. Know that we're all here for you, no matter what course you decide to take. (((HUGS))) :love:

[Catty1]

KK - How frustrating and painful and maddening for you! And poor Sydney.

Please call back and see if Sydney at least can get a pain injection or patch; maybe a shot of pred as well...

Tell the vet how uncomfy she is.

Also...you might try syringe feeding - mixing A/D food with warm water and gently syringing it in...the vet would have a syringe.

It's darkest before the dawn, hon....PT Prayers flying to you.

{{{hugs}}}

[Grace]

Has anyone ever put their cat to sleep before? Do they know what is happening? Do they just go to sleep? This may be my only option soon and I need to know more about it. Thank you.


We have had to do this several times over the years. It is never easy, but I truly feel it is worse for the ones left behind. We were always with ours; as others have said, the pet is sedated and then put to sleep.

[kittykatharine]

Thank you everyone for your wonderful support. I truly appreciate the info and comforting words. I sat down with my mom, and we decided that the plan of action is we are going to try the chemo for a few weeks (we will stop sooner if it seems to be too much), mainly to see how she handles it. If it becomes too much, we will immediately stop the chemo and switch her to palliative care - mainly steroid shots and pain medicine. Once those stop working, we will call the vet to come over and say our goodbyes. My mom and I just can't give up on her just yet, so hopefully the chemo will work and reduce the swelling in her face so that she can breathe better. It is like Catty1 said, some times it has to get worse before it gets better. I will bring Sydney in Friday, if there are no more problems, and I will keep you all updated to how she is doing. Thanks again.

[Moesha]

I've been faithfully following this thread even though sometimes I can't comment. It sounds like you and your mom have come up with a good plan. That way if things work out and Sydney improves, that's great. If she doesn't respond well to the treatments, then at least you will know that you did everything possible to help her and you'll know when it is time to let her go. I did that with my dear Simone. She had congestive heart failure. Simone was full of life and a little spitfire kitty. Somehow the vet and his staff were able to stick a needle into her chest and drain the fluid while she was fully awake. We then gave her lasix treaments for as long as it seemed that they were helping. The fluid kept getting less. Then one day I came home and I was there by myself, but I just took one look at my baby and knew that she was having too much trouble breathing and it wasn't working anymore. I've never had a vet come to the house, but think that would be easier. I called my brother to take me to the vet's office and my sister and her husband met us there. It was terribly hard to let her go and I still miss her and am crying thinking about it, but it was time. You'll know when it is time. In fact, I had a dream last night and Simone was in it. I could feel her as I held her. She'll always be alive in my mind and heart. I didn't mean to hijack a thread about your kitty but just wanted you to know that many of us have been where you are and can really sympathize. Sydney is a very loved kitty, and I truly hope you have many more happy memories with her. No matter what, treasure each moment you have now and those from the past. Thanks for keeping us posted, and I'm so sorry for all the difficulties you are encountering!

[jenluckenbach]

Your plan is a sound one. And I wish you the best of luck with it.

At this point I would be BOILING mad at the vets and their staff. I realize that this last problem was the pharmacy, and not the vet......but come on!!!! Can't anyone just fo their job right!?!?!?!

rant over.....

Hang in their Sydney, there is not a person in the world trying harder than your mom. :love:

[kittykatharine]

I've been faithfully following this thread even though sometimes I can't comment. It sounds like you and your mom have come up with a good plan. That way if things work out and Sydney improves, that's great. If she doesn't respond well to the treatments, then at least you will know that you did everything possible to help her and you'll know when it is time to let her go. I did that with my dear Simone. She had congestive heart failure. Simone was full of life and a little spitfire kitty. Somehow the vet and his staff were able to stick a needle into her chest and drain the fluid while she was fully awake. We then gave her lasix treaments for as long as it seemed that they were helping. The fluid kept getting less. Then one day I came home and I was there by myself, but I just took one look at my baby and knew that she was having too much trouble breathing and it wasn't working anymore. I've never had a vet come to the house, but think that would be easier. I called my brother to take me to the vet's office and my sister and her husband met us there. It was terribly hard to let her go and I still miss her and am crying thinking about it, but it was time. You'll know when it is time. In fact, I had a dream last night and Simone was in it. I could feel her as I held her. She'll always be alive in my mind and heart. I didn't mean to hijack a thread about your kitty but just wanted you to know that many of us have been where you are and can really sympathize. Sydney is a very loved kitty, and I truly hope you have many more happy memories with her. No matter what, treasure each moment you have now and those from the past. Thanks for keeping us posted, and I'm so sorry for all the difficulties you are encountering!

Thank you so much for sharing that story with me. I know it must have been extremely difficult to even type. I know in my heart I will know, like you, when it is time to say goodbye. It is just a situation that no mommy ever wants to deal with. When my last baby passed, I just couldnt let myself believe that he was dying, and I stayed up a week straight trying to feed him every two hours. When he passed, it was such a heart wrenching yet relieving time, because I knew he was no longer in any pain. I went and bought him the most beautiful box and lined it with his favorite blanket and put a picture of his family in it, so we would always be by his side. I am so sorry for your losses, and I have to say it is the most wonderful feeling in the world knowing that someone else out there loves there pets like I do. I can't tell you how many people told me I was crazy to spend all this money and effort on a cat. That they are a dime a dozen. I don't think people understand that my cats are my family. I dont have any children and they have in essense become my children. They are the most wonderful companions anyone could ever ask for and they have brought so much joy and love into my life. Baby was my first cat ever (I had him since I was 14), and when he died at 12 - it was my first expereince with death. I made it through that experience (although I still cry thinking about it) and I know that when this happens to Sydney, I will be able to live with it as well. My family and I have already discussed that if she passes, we are going to put her next to Baby, her life long companion and best friend. I found this wonderful store on ebay, when Baby died that makes the most beautiful head stones for your deceased pets. Baby's has a picture of him on it and the saying, " if love could have saved you, you would have lived forever!". My little girl would get one as well. Well, Sydney starts her chemo tomorrow, and hopefully it will help her. I have high hopes.

[Catty1]

"if she passes"

Now, let's put that one step forward, and focus on a healthy and happy Sydney! :D

PLEASE ask your vet about Regressin and if it can be tried in this type of cancer.

And consider getting some Transfer Factor - you can PM Emeraldgreen about it.

HUGS!

[Emeraldgreen]

" if love could have saved you, you would have lived forever!".

That is very beautiful. Thanks for sharing that.

[kittykatharine]

So I took Sydney to her first chemo administration today. I dropped her off at 8:30 am and the vet's called me at 11:30 am so she could go home. Last night Sydney managed to pull out one of her stiches and she started leaking mucous out of the top of her nose. The vet said that this was actually not a bad thing because it let out some of the drainage and pressure - and suprisingly, I could tell that she felt better last night. So I went and picked her up and she was near panicing. She kept banging her face into the carrier and trying to escape. It was so hard for me to watch. The vet said because of the chemo that she is to stay in the carrier till 3:00 pm. She was so upset. I ended up putting her carrier in my room with all the lights off and my little fountain turned on to try to calm her. I additonally cut up the egg shell matrice on my bed to help as a padding for the front of the carrier. I just hope she is able to calm down. She is miserable and it is absolutely horrible to watch. The only reason I am not totally upset and loosing it is because she has finnally got some treatment. I just wish it didnt make her feel so horrible. Luckily, next week, she doesnt have to go in there for chemo, I just give her a pill. That is much less traumatic for her. I just hope she is able to calm herself down, I worry about her heart. My poor baby.:(

[Moesha]

She should be out of the carrier by now. How is she doing? I'm glad she was able to finally get some treatment!

[jennielynn1970]

Oh gosh... I've been out of touch with the computer for about a week, and am so sorry to hear all that you are going through.

I hope Sydney will be feeling less anxious and will relax later on today. I would be so upset seeing that happen as well. The pics of her are just so sweet, and I just hope that things will run smoother for you. The fact that the wrong dosage was ordered and you had to wait longer... ugh.... I would have been flipping out on the vet office I am sure!

I really hope that the weekend goes smoothly and that the chemo will kick in quicker than expected. Poor girl not even being able to eat well. Definitely check on the feeding tube if it's needed, like JenLuckenbach recommended. She's nursed many a sick kitty, and gives great advice.

Big hugs to you and Sydney...

[jenluckenbach]

Oh gosh! :( I am SO sorry that Sydney is this upset. :( Is she any better now? (more relaxed)

I don't even know what to say. :( {{{{{HUGS}}}}}

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear that this was such a traumatic experience for her.:( I hope that she's now able to relax. Please continue to keep us updated about her. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Medusa]

Oh sweet Sydney, I'm so sorry that it's been so rough on her. I do hope that things have calmed down and she's beginning to heal and improve.

[kittykatharine]

Everyone will be so happy to hear that Sydney is doing really well. In fact, yesterday I was brushing her and she began to purr. This provided me with so much comfort and made me feel so good inside. She still has a robust appetite, and I have been pampering her like no other. I think I have found the perfect food for her and she isnt having any trouble eating it. She seems to not be in any pain and she seems to be handling this first dose very well. Once she was let out of the carrier she calmed down tremendously (cant say I blame her, I wouldnt want to be in there either). She was out laying with me all day and I even took her on the front porch to make her feel better. Believe it or not, but ever since some of the pressure was let out in her head, I could see a smile back on her face. I truly hope that she keeps up with this. She is doing so well right now. I will keep everyone up to date on my little girls progress. Thanks so much for all the support and kind words, all the PT prayers seem to be shining down on us right now! Thanks everyone!:D

[Moesha]

I am so HAPPY to read such a positive, upbeat update about Sydney! YAY for her feeling better!!

Was there a reason that the vet said she couldn't come out of the carrier?

[kittykatharine]

the vet said that she had to stay in there roughly three hours to let the sedation wear off. I guess she was afraid that she was going to jump on something and hurt herself. I actually tried taking her out of the carrier and putting her in the bathroom, but she was so disoriented that she was trying to jump in the bath tub and I had to put her back. After I put on the fan and my little soothing water fountain and turned off the lights, that calmed her down for a while as well. I would just peep my head in every 30 minutes to make sure she was ok. It was just very difficult seeing her so panicky.

[kittykatharine]

"if she passes"

Now, let's put that one step forward, and focus on a healthy and happy Sydney! :D

PLEASE ask your vet about Regressin and if it can be tried in this type of cancer.

And consider getting some Transfer Factor - you can PM Emeraldgreen about it.

HUGS!



So I finnaly received the Transfer Factor Plus in the mail, when I go into the vet next week i am going to bring it with me. Emeraldgreen has told me some wonderful stuff about it, and I am just going to make sure that it wont effect the medicine she is on. It appears to be a super supplement that boosts ones natural immunity. This may be exactly what she needs since the next chemo drug she is on actually is really harsh on her immunity. As for the Regression, I asked my vet about it and she stated that because Sydney's tumor is in her sinus cavities, they would not be able to administer it effectivly. Hopefully the Transfer Factor will be a success. I hope that you are doing well and thanks for the encouragement!

[Medusa]

I'm so glad to read that Sydney is doing better. One time after I brought Puddy home from the hospital, (we thought this time she might be a goner; she had a kidney removed after it had actually burst and she was on the brink) she did the same as Sydney, she kept banging her head against the carrier on the way home and chewing the carrier door. I could see every tooth in her mouth! I was so afraid and worried for her. That was two years ago and Ms. Puddy is now sitting next to my computer as I type this. Granted, our situations are much different but I wanted to show you how miracles happen. :) Bless you, Sydney girl, and you, too, Kittykatharine.

[kittykatharine]

Sydney is still ok today. She is a little more groggy than usaual and is laying on my bed for most of the day, but she still seems to not be in any pain. I am watching her very carefully because I really dont want her suffering. ihave noticed my other kitty Charlie has become jelous of all Sydney's attention so I am trying my best to include him with everything I do. It just can be hard juggling all her medical needs with his emotional needs. We are doing ok this weekend, so I will keep you updated!

[Moesha]

I think maybe it would only be fair to Charlie to start a thread in Cat General about him with a photo or two. :D

So glad to hear more positive news about Sydney. When does she get the next treament of what I think you said was a pill administered at home?

[kittykatharine]

Sydney is getting her next treatment this Friday morning. I am going to drive around town today to see if I can find a pharmacy that can fill it. I am also thinking aobut buying her a pill pocket, because she is really not allowig anyone to touch her face - which would be expected. I like the idea of posting pics of Charlie, I think I will do that later today! Hope all is well with everyone!

Here is a pic of my princess, that I took yesterday. She is hanging on in there:
http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/SydneyYesterday002.jpg

[Medusa]

Oh sweet, sweet Sydney, what a jewel you are! Such a trooper! I just love you! Hang in there, all of you, and know that we're still praying w/out ceasing.....

[momtomany]

Sydney, you have lots of us praying for you to get better. You are special to many. Bless you Sydney.

[slick]

Dear Sydney:
Do you have any idea how many people all over the world are praying for you and loving you?

KK:
What a good Meowmie you are. I would be doing the same thing.
{{{hugs}}}
slick

[kittykatharine]

Thank you so much for all the PT prayers. Sydney is still doing wonderfully, in fact she is almost her normal self. She is having her second chemo treatment tomorrow, and I was lucky enough to switch my schedule around so that I could spend the day with her and watch her. She is eating really well right now and is very playful, and the other wonderful thing is the swelling in her face is a little bit better :D:D:D. I think her breathing has improved as well. So far everything has been good. I am keeping up my prayers and I would really appreciate if you guys could keep them up as well. Sydney and I truly appreaciate it. Thank you!!!:love:

[Medusa]

It's an honor and a privilege to continue prayer for this sweet one and for you, too. I'm so glad to read this good report. PT power at work! :)

[Cataholic]

Go, Sydney, Go!

[Emeraldgreen]

Thank you so much for all the PT prayers. Sydney is still doing wonderfully, in fact she is almost her normal self. She is having her second chemo treatment tomorrow, and I was lucky enough to switch my schedule around so that I could spend the day with her and watch her. She is eating really well right now and is very playful, and the other wonderful thing is the swelling in her face is a little bit better :D:D:D. I think her breathing has improved as well. So far everything has been good. I am keeping up my prayers and I would really appreciate if you guys could keep them up as well. Sydney and I truly appreaciate it. Thank you!!!:love:


That is such wonderful news! Beautiful Sydney, we will continue to pray for good health and healing. :)

[Catty1]

That is GREAT news - she is off to a super start. :D Give her some lovings for me - I love her 'beige eyeliner'. :)

[momtomany]

Wonderful news and the prayers will continue. Thank you for sharing Sydney with us and allowing us to be a part of her life.

[slick]

I'm so relieved to hear that Sydney is showing signs of improvement. Please plant a big :love: on that furry forehead from me.

[Moesha]

Ditto for me! I hope all goes well with her treatment tomorrow!

[kittykatharine]

Sydney got her chemo treatment Friday and I have been watching her closely. She is still eating and she is still in great spirits. The wonderful thing is this morning when I looked at her, I couldnt believe it. Her one eye, which had been swollen shut, almost looks normal. The huge red swelling that was in her upper eyelid, is gone! She can see out of it, and it seems to not be bothering her at all. She really looks great, I could cry I am so happy that she is looking so great. The only problem that I have been having with her, is her mouth is bothering her. I am not sure if the tumor is pushing on her teeth or what, but she acts like they are bothing her and she uses her paw to rub it. I am just so happy that she is doing so well. Thank you everyone so much!

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so glad to hear that Sydney is doing so well.:) Hopefully her mouth won't bother her too much and she'll be able to continue to eat well. She continues to remain in my thoughts and prayers.

[kittykatharine]

Here is an updated picture of Sydney...Doesnt she look great! I am so happy!:D:D:D

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/IMG_1644.jpg

[Moesha]

Hi Sydney!!! I sure can see improvement in her face! She's beautiful. I'm so glad she seems to be responding well to the treatments.

[Catty1]

Beautiful girl - sticking out her tongue! lol

Her one eye is much more visible...I hope she continues to do this well - what a great start! :D

Give her a snuggle for me, ok?:love:

[Emeraldgreen]

She looks MARVELOUS!:)

[momtomany]

Wow, Sydney does look better. How wonderful. Sydney please keep getting better.

[Medusa]

She looks wonderful and we can tell that she feels so much better! Love the tongue sticking out! I just love this little girl! I feel better, too, just looking at her! :love:

[jennielynn1970]

Awe.. Sweet Sydney!!! You are looking so much better!! I am so happy to see and hear of this!!

You keep up the good work, and we'll keep up the prayers and good wishes on this end.

Gentle kissies and hugs to Sydney!!!

[kittykatharine]

Sydney is still doing really wonderfully, although I had another slight issue with the vet today. Sydney is supposed to get her chemo done on Fridays, she pretty much has this same standing appointment for the next 6 months. Since today is July 4th, the vet told me that I would have to make her wait till Monday. I was a little upset by this. It is important that she receive her medications on a strict and proper schedule, and she is going to have to wait an extra 2 days and she will receive her next chemo admin on Friday, so that will be 2 days earlier. The vet seemed to think it is just fine, but when people have chemo, they are very strict about what has to be done when, and patients receive their chemo no matter what day of the week or holiday. It is just Sydney is doing so well right now, that I don't want anything to jeopardize her health. Well, I hope that everyone has a wonderful 4th of July and please everyone be safe! :cool:

[jennielynn1970]

I'd be really annoyed with that as well. You think they could have done a day earlier or maybe a day later instead. I wouldn't want to do chemo treatments on a Monday and then a Friday, unless they do that with other cats and animals and there's no issue with it. Do you think they could redo the schedule that it will now be on Mondays instead of cramming two treatments in one week?

Whatever happens with the scheduling, I hope that they do what is best for Sydney (not what is best for them).

Big hugs to your sweet girl, and hope she continues to do well!

[kittykatharine]

Thanks so much Jenn, the vet told me that is should be just fine that she has the treatment Monday and then Friday. She said that blood work will be performed that morning to ensure she can handle it. It is just I have had to change my work schedule around so many times that (so I could spend the day with her on chemo days) that I wont have a job if I try to change again. I am going to keep my fingers crossed that everything will work out ok.

[kittykatharine]

I just picked Sydney up from the vet and the Dr. said that all her blood levels are back within the normal range. She said that Sydney is doing really really well. Makes me so happy. We also had her little blue stitches finally removed. Sydney is still a little loopy from all the sedation, but she should be fine in a few hours. I am just so happy that she is doing well. We send our love, thanks, and appreciation to all of you that donated to help Sydney. Her bill today was less, thanks to your contributions. It is so greatly appreciated. We have raised approximately $250 from the community and all of you. Thank you!

[krazyaboutkatz]

This is wonderful news about Sydney's blood levels.:D I'm so glad that she's doing so well and I hope that she'll continue to do so. She remains in my thoughts and prayers.

[Emeraldgreen]

It is such an amazing story of recovery! Sydney seems to be doing so well and I'm so glad you didn't give up on her. That picture of her with her tongue sticking out is my favourite. She is such a spunky gal! :)

[Moesha]

I too am SO glad to read of how well Sydney is doing! I do want to try to contribute more money, but right now I have to get Aroara's head healed and see how much that takes. It is great that you've gotten some other help from your community too! Please keep us posted and tell that little girl of yours that she is in many people's hearts and minds.

[Moesha]

How did Sydney do with today's treatment?

[slick]

I'm finally having a chance to catch up on Sweet Sydney. How is she doing tonight?

[kittykatharine]

Ok, Sydney is supposed to get her next chemo admin tomorrow morning (with the most powerful drug- Doxorubicin) and I am worried about her. Although her eating has improved a great deal since two days ago, her activity level seems to have decreased. All she really did today is lay around and sleep - I am pretty sure she is not feeling really good. I am really worried about tomorrow because it is supposed to be the most difficult drug to tolerate (as well as it is the most effective drug) and she seems to not be feeling good right now. I don't think she is in excruciating pain or anything, but I know my little girl isn't feeling well. The one safety net is that Sydney has her blood tested and analyzed before I even leave the vet in the morning, to ensure her blood levels are at the right level for her to do the chemo - if not I take her home to rest. I never sleep well the night before, so I can tell you this is going to be a long night.:( Please have Sydney in your prayers tomorrow and I will update everyone, once I return from the vet. Thank you everyone!

[jenluckenbach]

Come on Sydney, you can do this!!! I know you can. Prayers for tomorrow.

[Medusa]

Sydney and you are in my prayers today and always. :)

[Moesha]

I hope Sydney is able to tolerate the treatment tomorrow. Cancer treatments are hard on bodies and even people have their good days and not so good days. I'll be eagerly waiting to hear how Sydney is doing! Please try to get some rest yourself.

[Catty1]

PT Prayers for Sydney and for you.

Thank God that little girl has you for love and comfort - that makes all the difference! She needs her mommy when she is not feeling well. :love::)

If there are any side effects, hopefully the vet will have some ideas. Otherwise...I guess she is just resting and healing!

{{{{HUGS}}}}

[krazyaboutkatz]

I hope that everything goes well tomorrow. She'll be in my thoughts and prayers.

[cristy]

I just caught up on this thread and I am sooo praying for sydney. I cried almost the whole way through, putting myself in your place and jasper in sydney's. We are getting ready to buy a house, so our money situation isn't the best right now, but I am going to talk to my husband about using some of our tithe to send for sydney's treatments. I think that it is ok to use God's money to help God's creatures that can't help themselves. In the meantime, you will be in our prayers nightly!

[kittykatharine]

Update on my baby Sydney! ok, so she had the harshest chemo admin with the Doxorubicin this morning. The vet said that Sydney's CBC's have dropped slightly, but that she was given an iron shot to counteract this. Otherwise the vet said her liver and kidney values where all in normal levels. The low iron levels completely explains why she wasn't acting too well yesterday, because low iron makes you feel tired. The vet had also given me Pepsid to help make sure Sydney's tummy is more soothed, so that she keeps up her good appetite. Basically the vet said that we will keep a close eye on Sydney's CBC levels (if they drop below 20 she will need to get a epigen shot - she is currently at 24 and 25-26 is normal). Hopefully the shot of iron will do the trick. The nice thing is she doesn't have to go back for her next chemo admin until the Friday after next - this should give her lots of time to spend with me and to rest. Please guys keep her in your prayers, I truly feel they are working! Thank you so much!

[Moesha]

Thanks for the update! I've been checking back and have been concerned since you hadn't posted anything. I'm glad to hear that she was able to get her treatment and that her levels are doing well. Please keep us posted. Don't forget to come around and post some even though she won't have another treatment for quite awhile.

[Catty1]

More prayers for Sydney! :) Good news - keep it up, little one!

kittykatherine, I am sure glad you are her mom!

[kittykatharine]

Oh, I will definitely check back in, I like to visit this site often and read everyone else's stories as well. I promise to post her progress before then :-D

[Medusa]

We haven't forgotten about Sydney or you, Kat, and we pray for you both all the time. We're hopeful that this time off from her next chemo treatment will be pleasant and enjoyable. :) You're doing such a great job at momming. :p

[jennielynn1970]

Glad to hear that Sydney continues to do well. I'm glad the vet gave her an injection for the iron so she'll have more energy.

Big hugs and gentle pets for Sydney (and big hugs to you too!)

[Catty1]

Just sent my donation.

How's our girl doing?

How are YOU?

{{{{hugs}}}}

[kittykatharine]

After Sydney's treatment on Monday, she was not doing poorly, although I could tell that she was not doing well. Tuesday and Wednesday where two very hard days for us. I couldn't get her to eat, anything. She had started to refuse to eat the pill pockets, because she has figured out that we put a pill in them. Even when we grind the pill and put it into it, she still refuses. She just laid around all day on Wednesday, she wouldn't even go outside which is her favorite thing in the world to do. I had been given her pain medicine because I felt that she wasn't feeling well and I had to give her an anti-nausea medicine as well. Thursday she thankfully perked up and made me feel a lot better. She was walking around and feeling better - plus she is eating a little bit better as well. I am taking her in on Monday to have her blood checked - hopefully her CBC levels will be back into the normal level. My little princess is holding on in there.


Catty1 I wanted to thank you so much for the generous donation - it is so greatly appreciated. That is truly going to help a whole bunch. I wish I could show just how much I have appreciated your help other than words, you have truly helped a great deal. You are so wonderful and Sydney is so thankful as well. :love::love::love::love::love:Thank you!:love::love::love:

[Catty1]

There are so many of us here praying for you and Sydney, sending good thoughts and funds when we can.

You DO realize that she is PT's kitty now?:D

Glad to hear she is perking up!

[jennielynn1970]

Poor little thing... I know how chemo can ravage a human body, and we know what is going on. Sydney must feel crappy and confused, but I'm glad she's feeling somewhat better! I hope that the few extra days of rest between chemo treatments will help her rebound so she feels better before the next one.

Big gentle hugs, Sydney dear, and to your meowmy too!

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear that she had a few very rough days:( but I'm glad that now she's doing much better.:) She continues to remain in my thoughts and prayers.

[kittykatharine]

Last night, the weirdest thing happened with Sydney. I was in the kitchen talking on the phone, when she ran up to me and started yelling at me. This meowing was much louder and much more intense than her usual "feed me" meow. My other cat Charlie came to check out what was going on, and Sydney ran up to him and hit him in the face and then preceded to chase after him around the house. I dropped the phone and my sister and I preceded to chase the two of them yelling at Sydney to stop trying to attack him. I managed to catch up to her and grad her before continuing to attack poor charlie. Charlie is the most unaggressive cat ever - he was rescued from an abusive home and he has never been able to shake his skiddishness. He is afraid of plastic bags and brooms and hides for hours if anyone unknown comes into his territory. I just don't get why Sydney attacked him. The only thing I can think of is, she wasn't feeling well and was overcompensating by attacking so she wasn't pegged as the "weak" link. After all she is the alpha queen. I just wanted to share this strange story with you guys - it was so weird. I am wondering if I should segregate them when I am out, because I don't want her to attack him when I am not at home. She hasn't done anything since the incident, it was just strange. Also, Sydney got her blood tests done today and the vet said that she was amazed that she is doing so well - the vet said that her blood work has consistently improved and that she is doing amazingly. Just thought I would share the good news, since Sydney is a PT kitty!:love:

[jenluckenbach]

Great news about the blood tests. :D:D

About the attack, could it ne the opposite?? that Sydney feels so GOOD that she needed to assert her authority?? Did she ever pick on Charlie before she was sick?

[Medusa]

Great news about the blood tests. :D:D

About the attack, could it ne the opposite?? that Sydney feels so GOOD that she needed to assert her authority?? Did she ever pick on Charlie before she was sick?

That's what I was thinking.

[Catty1]

"MOM, come watch me! I feel so good that I am gonna chase Charlie ALL OVER THE HOUSE!" :D

Poor Charlie - I know he would be scared - but was she growling, had airplane ears? Were there signs that she really was angry and about to attack?

Great news on the blood work. :)

[Emeraldgreen]

Hmmm, I wonder if Charlie may have started it in another room and she came to tell you about it and then she took off after him to let him know she'd had enough? In any case, it sure sounds like a good sign that her energy level is up and that she might be feeling better.
If there is another spat, I would consider keeping them in different rooms when you are not there as she sure doesn't need anything else on her plate to deal with such as wounds from fighting. And then they could 'be with each other' when you're around? But who knows, maybe it was a one time thing.
Glad to hear that she is so full of beans! :)

[kittykatharine]

I can tell you she was definitley not playing. Her ears where back and she was actively trying to attack him (I guess lucky for Charlie she has few teeth and no front claws). Charlie is the most submissive cat ever, I am pretty sure that he has never even tried to pick a fight with Sydney because he knows that she will kick his but. She has attacked him twice before, but it was because I ran after Charlie because he went outside to where my feral cat lives (who would definitley tear him to shreads). After chasing him back into the house, I really feel that Sydney thought he hurt me, because she ran in front of me and preceded to "protect" me. She is so cute when she sees that I have gotten angry, because she will place herself between me and the person I may be raising my voice at and she will precede to scream at us to stop. If you don't stop, she will give you a warning nibble in the calf that she doesnt like fighting. She is the best mediator ever! Back to this incident, I was just talking in normal tone on the phone - no yelling or anything. Maybe you guys are right and she was just letting me know that she is still the queen...;)

[Emeraldgreen]

I can tell you she was definitley not playing. Her ears where back and she was actively trying to attack him (I guess lucky for Charlie she has few teeth and no front claws). Charlie is the most submissive cat ever, I am pretty sure that he has never even tried to pick a fight with Sydney because he knows that she will kick his but. She has attacked him twice before, but it was because I ran after Charlie because he went outside to where my feral cat lives (who would definitley tear him to shreads). After chasing him back into the house, I really feel that Sydney thought he hurt me, because she ran in front of me and preceded to "protect" me. She is so cute when she sees that I have gotten angry, because she will place herself between me and the person I may be raising my voice at and she will precede to scream at us to stop. If you don't stop, she will give you a warning nibble in the calf that she doesnt like fighting. She is the best mediator ever! Back to this incident, I was just talking in normal tone on the phone - no yelling or anything. Maybe you guys are right and she was just letting me know that she is still the queen...;)

I wonder if Sydney saw any of your other cats having a spat and took it out on Charlie? Your post above made me think about how my cat George will attack ANYONE in the vicinity, including me, if there is a fight going on between other cats. He doesn't seem to care 'who' started it but he feels the need to get involved and beat someone up. Even if he hears a neighbours cat in the middle of the night screeching! If that happens, I have to jump out of bed, race into his room because I know he will be all 'fluffed' up because of the cat sounds he's heard and will ultimately take it out on one of the other cats.
Do you think some of your other cats could have had a fight in another room while you were on the phone?

[mamaducky]

Boy -- these cats of yours won't ever let you have a boring day, will they?

On one hand, I feel kind of sorry for Charlie (who looks JUST like my Zorro) -- but on the other hand, it is SO great to know that Sydney is feeling up to running around and attempting to kick some butt!

I think that keeping them apart when you're not around, at least until you've seen that they're back on "regular" terms for a while, is probably a good idea. You will probably never know what started the ruckus to begin with, but it's worth making sure that it was a one-time event and not part of a developing pattern of behavior.

Great news about Sydney's blood work -- she remains in our thoughts and prayers, as you certainly do as well!

Hugs,
Diana

[kittykatharine]

The most horrible thing happend today. While I was at work, a bug man that was coming by my house accidently let in the "feral" cat into my house, and the result was horrible. He attacked Sydney and we think he has hurt her badly. My dad was at the house and he was supposed to keep track of Hercules (the wild one), while the bug guy sprayed, but unfortunatly did a bad job. My dad called me at work, to tell me this horrible news (I am stuck here till 3:30). She is in a closet and refuses to come out. My dad says he has no idea how long Hercules attacked her, but that he didn't see any blood on her (although she wont let him near her). I am just so angry - this was exactly what she didnt need:mad:. She needed to be stress free and healing, not brutily attacked! I love Hercules, but he is just such a hard cat to deal with. He is like the pitbul version of a cat - he is ferocious around other cats and will kill them if allowed (this is from his abusive past). I adpoted him because he was going to be put to sleep because he was "unadoptable". He is the sweetest around people, he just could never be around other animals or children. I had kept him completely segregated from the other cats, by making him his own room (equiped with animal planet). This arrangement has worked out well, except for the rare occasion someone lets him in. I even have a huge sign on the door stating, "Beware of Animal, Do NOT let out under any circumstances!" I am so very uspet. I am about to leave work and I will update everyone to how she is...Hopefuly she is not injured and just upset.

[Medusa]

Oh my, I can certainly understand your worry! Hopefully, Sydney is ok and is just frightened by it. Is Hercules immunized?

[Moesha]

Oh dear!!! How terrible. Please keep us posted as soon as you know something.

[kittykatharine]

Ok, so I have checked her and she has some teeth marks on her behind, but she appears to be ok. I called the vet and they told me to put some hydrogen peroxide on it, so I did - there was no foaming so it appears to not be infected yet. I think she is more shook up then anything. She wont let anyone near her but me. Hercules is up to date on all his shots and he has a clean bill of health, so there is no worry there. She isn't limping, so that is good as well, she just is really upset. I guess it was stressful more than anything. ***I am making a sigh of relief*** :rolleyes:

[Moesha]

Make sure to keep the wounds clean so it doesn't get infected and get abcessed. Believe me you don't want to deal with abcesses. I think Carole just successfully helped abcesses heal. I'll try to find the link to her thread and post it here. What stress we get from our furbabies. Here it is. (http://petoftheday.com/talk/showthread.php?t=144394)

[Catty1]

OMG - I am glad she is physically okay! Poor baby...at least she knows who Mom is and where to get love and cuddles and soothing. I hope she settles down soon.

I'm sure your dad feels bad...

{{{hugs}}}} to everyone.

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so sorry to hear that Hercules has attacked Sydney.:( I sure hope that she'll be okay and heal up quicky. I'm so glad that her blood work is looking good..:)

[mamaducky]

Oh, honey...!

I can't imagine how you must have felt, being at work and unable to come home to see how Sydney was doing. You poor baby!

As everyone else is saying, do keep on the wounds with the hydrogen peroxide -- but it might also be not such a bad idea to call her vet and let them know what has happened with Sydney. I don't know what kind of effect the chemo is having on her immune system in general, and if that would have any effect on her susceptibility to infection.

I've been through a couple of abscessed bite situations recently, and the second time around, we were able to use a brand new medication, which is a one-time injection of an antibiotic that releases itself gradually into the animal's system over a two-week period of time. It was AMAZING.

Now, you're doing such a good job of keeping on top of Sydney's owies that it probably won't be an issue; you're SUCH a good cat mom. But in case she needs it -- there's good stuff out there to fix an infected bite that would NOT involve you trying to have her take more medicine! Poor little thing is doing enough of that already. :(

Hang in there, honey -- positive thoughts and prayers for you & Sydney!

Big hugs,
Diana

[kittykatharine]

I took Sydney into the vet this morning for her 6th week of chemotherapy. The vet also looked at her bite marks on her backside, and she said it looked fine, but gave me an antibiotic cream to help it heal better. Funny thing is the vet said that all of her blood values look great, but the only negative thing is the vet said I am spoiling her too much. She has apparently gained a pound! So, I am going to have to cut back on the treats and wet food, and just feed her like I did before this whole thing has happened. The main problem is, I have Charlie in the house as well and he will eat any of her food that is left over. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to feed a cat a portioned amount of food, without having your other cat eat it? Sydney likes to take small bites and go back to her bowl frequently, where Charlie likes to eat all of his and hers all at once. I have to go to work in the morning, so sitting there and watching them is too difficult. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! :love:

[Catty1]

Feeding in separate rooms - if Sydney will tolerate being in one room, maybe yours?

Or - take up the food dishes when you go to work and put them down when you get home. :)

Wow - when a cancer patient GAINS weight, that is good! :D Was this another strong chemo, KK?

[Moesha]

I have to feed Morgan seperately from Aroara. Aroara eats in the bathroom. Morgan can only eat 3/4 - 1 cup of diabetic food per day. I dole out small portions of it throughout the day. In the morning when I first get up, later before I leave. When I get back home. At my dinner time. Then before bed. He snacks on his food and if Aroara happens to eat some of it, at least it isn't alot. He never has access to her food though. She knows her food is in the bathroom and will run to beat you in there if she thinks that you are headed in that direction. So she'll mostly leave Morgan's food alone.

Such good news about Sydney's blood levels!

[kittykatharine]

Thanks Moesha and Catty1 for the suggestions. I think I am going to try a combination of both your suggestions, feeding her in my room, several times a day. This way I can monitor how much she is eating. The chemo she had done today was just the Vincristine, and to my knowledge it isnt one of the super strong doses, where she feels skick for days. She is actually begging for food right now and walking around the house like everything is ok. She looks really good! Here is a pic of her:

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/IMG_1664.jpg
:love::love::love:

[Moesha]

Wow! She is looking great! You can hardly tell that she had that lump on her head at all. YAY for Sydney!!

[jennielynn1970]

Awe... sweet girl!! I'm so glad to see she's doing so well!

Big hugs and kisses to Sydney!

[Catty1]

WOW - her face looks normal, and those sweet eyes with the beige eyeliner...what a SWEET face!

Has the vet said anything about the cancer? I know it got systemic. Or will Sydney get tests soon?

Re: Fundraising - any garage sales you could hold? Sell the prom dresses? How are things going? ( I can't give for a while yet).

[momtomany]

Wow Sydney looks so good. You are doing a great job with her. Give her a head scritchie from the Dunn gang please.

[krazyaboutkatz]

She looks great and I'm glad to hear that she also has a good appetite.:) She'll continue to remain in my thoughts and prayers.

[kittykatharine]

**UPDATE** (also posted in Candice's post)
I'll go update my thread - sorry guys - life has become so very busy, I have been having difficulty keeping up with everything. My boyfriend is applying to 24 medical schools and I have been deemed the proof reader for all of the application essays. Sydney is doing great. She is eating and drinking normally, acts in high spirits, and is running around like normal. I haven't had any problems with her (*knock on wood). It has felt like my Sydney is back. I am keeping up with her medicine and checking in with her vet regularly. It is so funny, she has accepted our "pill time", and she takes her pills like such a good little girl. As for fundraising - my parents have been so wonderful in letting me live with them to save rent money. I also get paid every two weeks, so I put my whole paycheck towards her treatment when I get paid. My vet has been flexible with me which has made a big difference. The big expense I am a little worried about is for Sydney's week 9 treatment - which is going to be $1000 - chemo tx and her restaging. I am still trying to sell my prom dresses - although no bites yet. I will keep you all updated - Again thanks so much for the support, donations, and care. Sydney and I appreciate it from our heart!:love::love::love:

[Catty1]

Kat - at what point does Sydney get checked to see how fast the cancer is disappearing?

Prayers for her!

When is the 9 week treatment?

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm so glad to hear that Sydney is doing so well and I hope that she'll continue to do so.:) I'll continue to keep her in my thoughts and prayers.

[kittykatharine]

Kat - at what point does Sydney get checked to see how fast the cancer is disappearing?

Prayers for her!

When is the 9 week treatment?


Sydney will be going in to see if the cancer is shrinking, etc. during week 9, for the restaging. This will consist of lots of blood work, and ultrasound, ECG, etc. Week 9 is August 15th, so approximately 2 weeks from now. I'm going to try to see if my parents can help out a little bit. I am so very nervous for that week - hopefully everything I hear is postive news and that her cancer has gone into remission. She still has bad days and good days so I don't know. Fingers crossed and constant praying is what I am going to be doing :-)

[Catty1]

IS there a place at school/work you can set up a donation can station (with permission?)

How about taking the prom dresses to a good consignment store - and if you tell the manager what the funds are for, she might let you have a donation can at her place too!

Maybe a local pet store or two would help in the same way?

Sydney has the CUTEST face! Any poster with that pic on it would melt the wallets----er, HEARTS, of everyone! :D

[kittykatharine]

IS there a place at school/work you can set up a donation can station (with permission?)

How about taking the prom dresses to a good consignment store - and if you tell the manager what the funds are for, she might let you have a donation can at her place too!

Maybe a local pet store or two would help in the same way?

Sydney has the CUTEST face! Any poster with that pic on it would melt the wallets----er, HEARTS, of everyone! :D

That is a great idea! I know of a consignment shop down the street and I will see what I can do (i'll use some old coffee cans to make them. Also, I will see about whether I can put a donation can up at my work. Thanks for the great ideas - Candice you are truly a super resourceful person! Thank you so much! I wanted to show you guys the CUTEST picture of sydney:

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/08-05-07_2359.jpg


I got this one with my boyfriends phone. She is just so gorgeous to me! :D

[kittykatharine]

I also found this pic I had of Sydney, before she had the tumor removed on her head - it definitley shows why I was so panicked about getting her treatment and quickly. She looks like a unicorn :-( My poor baby girl, she has been through alot, she is doing much better now, thank God!:love::love::love:

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/Tumor.jpg

[Emeraldgreen]

That is a great idea! I know of a consignment shop down the street and I will see what I can do (i'll use some old coffee cans to make them. Also, I will see about whether I can put a donation can up at my work. Thanks for the great ideas - Candice you are truly a super resourceful person! Thank you so much! I wanted to show you guys the CUTEST picture of sydney:

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f39/kittykatharine/08-05-07_2359.jpg


I got this one with my boyfriends phone. She is just so gorgeous to me! :D


The face of an angel! :)

[Moesha]

She is gorgeous to all of us!

[Catty1]

I am SO happy to see her face looking so normal! The camera shot looks like a bit of swelling on the left, but that could just be the shot.

You might want to wrap the cans in a pic of her - including the one with the little bump on her head. You can always add the vet's email addy or whatever (ask the vet what the best contact method is) so people can donate directly there if they want.

It will all add up!

Glad she is doing so well - I know the vet can't say anything definite, but major PT Prayers happening here.:):love:

[kittykatharine]

Sydney had her chemo drug today, and all is well! She was running around and acting herself. So no problems here. Catty1, I stopped by the consignment show by my house, but was told that she already has a can for her own cause - so I am going to try another one that i know of. I will keep you guys updated with everything is great with everyone and their furbabies!:love::love::love:

[jennielynn1970]

I'm so glad she's feeling well!

Big hugs Sydney! You're so cute, and so sweet looking!! AND BRAVE!!

[kittykatharine]

Some good news on the fundraising - one of my professors gave me some textbooks as a gift, so that I can sell them. After looking online, they should add up to a about $200. So I was very happy about that! News on Sydney, she has developed the sniffles, and I am going to call the vet today, to see if I can get her anything. I don't like how she is sneezing. She may have caught a cold because of her lowered immune system. So, that is my main concern for her right now. Otherwise she is still doing well. Thanks everyone!:love::love::love:

[Medusa]

Good news on the fundraising! Did you do your Law of Abundance check? Sounds like you might have. If not, it isn't too late. Prayers going up that Sydney doesn't get any more than simple sniffles.

[kittykatharine]

Sydney had another chemo admin yesterday. Her blood tests stated that she has an infection, and I have to have her on antibiotics. She is acting fine, running around and stuff, she just is sneezing. Other than that everything is going great. Sorry I have been gone, it was finals week :-):love:

[Catty1]

I thought of Sydney yesterday, knowing it was a big day for both of you. She got a strong chemo dose, right?

I hope the antibiotics work quickly - that poor immune system needs all the help it can get!

Does she like plain unflavoured yogurt? A good brand with a good culture in it will prevent any tummy troubles, as the ABs kill off the good bacteria along with the bad.

How's the fundraising going? I have NOTHING to give right now, but I hope you got some 'cans' up somewhere.

Congrats on finishing your finals (or ARE they over now?).

Hugs to that pretty kitty!:love:

[kittykatharine]

Sydney had the vincristine yesterday and she handled it pretty well. I think she hates the feeling of coming off the sedation the most. She cries the whole day if left alone, so she feels comfort in me being there for her. I have specifically worked my schedule around to devote that entire day to her. The super strong chemo drug is actually this Friday. I always get really worried when she has this specific drug done, because last time she didnt eat for three days afterwards. When you were talking about the yogurt, was that any plain yogurt? The kind humans eat? I have never tried giving her yogurt before, she is currently getting pepsid every day to keep her tummy soothed. Nice thing is three of the books that the professor donated sold, so that was really nice. This upcoming week is also her restaging, so I am anxious to see what the vet has to say. I am hoping good news. It is just very stressful. Sydney is still a happy camper and hasnt had hardly any side effects. The hardest thing for me and her is getting her to take her pills. she wont eat the pill pockets anymore (smart little girl) and she knows when I put it into her food. Right now I am having to give her 6 or 7 pills a day (her antibiotic is cut into four -1/4 pills because it is too large), and she fights me really hard for the last three or four. She hates the liquid Iron the most. As for the cans, I put one up at work and one at my mom and dads work, and those where the only places that would let me for now. Nothing yet, I checked Friday. Other than that everything is great - I have finished my finals (thank God!) so I have a small break before starting it up again. Luckily I have no classes on Friday, so we can keep up our chemo schedule. Thanks so much for the thoughts and prayers, it is greatly appreciated!:love::love::love:

[Emeraldgreen]

Right now I am having to give her 6 or 7 pills a day (her antibiotic is cut into four -1/4 pills because it is too large), and she fights me really hard for the last three or four. She hates the liquid Iron the most.

I'm glad that Sydney is still managing well despite all that she has gone through. She is quite a fighter that girl! :)

You might want to see if you can get the tablets you are giving Sydney crushed up into a suspension by a compounding pharmacist in a palatable flavour like chicken or seafood. Then you could maybe sneak it into her food that way?
What kind of antibiotic is she on? If it is in the Clavamox family, you could ask your vet if she could be given the Convenia injection. It is equivalent to 14 days worth of clavamox tabs but is given in one injection. It may not be suitable for the kind of infection she has though.

[Catty1]

The yogurt I was talking about is human - plain, NO flavour, nuthin(some folks would think that Vanilla is plain - NOPE :D )! My Oscar loves it as a treat! Cole just walks away from it, he could care less.

You might try getting a single-size container and putting a dab on the end of your finger, and see what she thinks.

Also - that antibiotic injection idea sounds good; ask your vet if the AB Sydney is on is injectable.

Hope she is better soon!

[Medusa]

It's difficult when we have to keep giving our furkids pills several times a day. After a while they get so sick of it. I sure hope that Sydney keeps improving. Congrats on finishing your finals. That's one hurdle anyhow. Prayers still continuing for you and Sydney.....:)

[slick]

I feel so bad for you and sweet Sydney. Yes, it's hard when you know that the pills are for their own good, yet they fight tooth and nail. You've gotten some good advice here.

As for the yogurt, I don't give Max much human food at all but when I eat vanilla yogurt, he comes to life and sticks his nose right in the bowl. Funny thing though, he won't touch the plain stuff.

You are in my thoughts and prayers. :love: {{{hugs}}}

[Moesha]

I'll be thinking of you and Sydney today. I hope everything goes well and will be looking forward to reading an update.

[kittykatharine]

Today was a not so good day:(. I dropped Sydney off at the vet to get the harsh chemo drug (doxorubicin) and get her restaging. The vet called me about 5 minutes ago and said that when they did the EKG on Sydney this morning, it indicated that the ventricles in her heart are enlarged and they opted to not do her chemo today. I am heading over to the vet at 2 pm, to get more information. The vet stated that I will have to get her an echocardiogram done on Monday (they are bringing in a specialist), to see if it was just a fluke in the machine or her ventricles are in fact enlarged. If they are enlarged, she will not be allowed to receive the doxorubicin any more - because of its extreme cardiotoxicity. This is our first real set back. It has me really upset. I hate having to stress Sydney out by taking her to and from the vet, and now it looks as if she is going to have to go Monday and Tuesday as well. It is luckily my two week vacation between semesters and I can be home with her. I am really really worried and I pray that she is ok. It is very important that she receives all the treatment she can. Please pray for her, she needs your prayers greatly. I don't quite understand it, she was running around all frisky yesterday trying to get her ball. People with heart conditions are typically fatigued and are unable to take part in any form of strenuous exercise. She acts normal. I will write another post if I here anything new at the 2pm meeting. :(:(:(:(

[Catty1]

{{{{hugs}}}} Best of luck on everything.

Even in humans that can't take a high dose of chemo (a friend of mine wound up in the psych ward for several days!), a longer course of the regular lower-dose chemo seems to do the trick. and/or - maybe lower-dose, more frequent doses of the harsh chemo.

There is an answer, hon. Looking forward to the update!

Sydney is happy and dashing around - that counts for a lot! :love:

{{{{hugs}}}}

[Medusa]

We'll just hold the thought that it was a fluke in the machine as your vet said it could be. Since Sydney is running around and playing, I'll bet that's what it is. Keep the faythe. :)

[Emeraldgreen]

Lots of prayers going out asap for Sydney! And as Candace mentioned, perhaps a longer term of the lower dose chemo might be effective enough to battle the cancer.
In the meantime, I too am glad to hear that she is racing around and acting frisky. Considering how much she has been through since this all started, it is a wonderful miracle. :love:

[kittykatharine]

Ok, so I went to the vet and they told me to not worry about the heart issue, and that Monday they will do the ECG and ultrasoud and the staging (costing $700) which is $200 more than expected. I mean what can I say - so I said fine. So I got Sydney and was half way driving home when I looked back at her and she was covered in blood. I immediatley pulled over and inspected her and found that they had left a catherter in her right paw. I was so very angry. I immediatley rushed back to the vets, meanwhile Sydney has an open exposed vein, due to their stupidity. This stressed her out beyond belief. There explaination was -"She thought I took it out and I thought she took it out". What a crock of crap. If I did that to a human as a nurse, I would get in huge trouble and possibly get fired and/or sewed. I was very very upset. I took Sydney home - she was hissing at me and angry because they had to remove the catheter while she was awake - and she has had a very stressful day. I don't understand why people can't just get things right. They told me she didnt loose alot of blood and that she is fine, but she is anemic! Loosing blood hurts her! I took pictures of the bloody towel, so that if she has blood issues when we go in next, I will show them that it is the result of the loss of blood - there fault.

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[Moesha]

That poor kitty!!!! And her poor mommy! There's no excuse for that at all. Please give her lots of loves from me.

[Medusa]

Oh goodness, did you talk to your vet directly about it? I would and I would definitely voice my displeasure. I'm sure Sydney will be fine but she didn't need this added stress and neither did you.

[Grace]

Their explanations are totally unacceptable!! And that is a lot of blood for a small animal to lose.

[krazyaboutkatz]

First, I hope that Sydney's heart is fine and that her ECG and ultrasound results will come back within the normal range.
Second, how horrible!!!:( I can't believe that no one is even accepting the blame for not removing the catheter.:mad: I'd be extremely angry and would demand to speak to the vet. I sure hope that this blood loss hasn't hurt Sydney in any way. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent her way. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Catty1]

Crappy excuses!

That is unforgiveable - especially as it caused Sydney pain and stress!

Having said that - a few years ago when I worked at a cat boarding place, I yelled for the owners when cleaning a room. There seemed to be a LOT of blood EVERYwhere. A multi-cat family was sharing two rooms, and someone got territorial.

She came up, we checked the kitties, and none had a bad wound, which was good. She also told me that with cats, the amount of blood looks like more than it really is. I think because the blood is thin or something.

I STILL say they made a horrid mistake and handled the solution to it badly. I just mean she may not have lost as much blood as feared.

{{{{HUGS}}}} to your precious angel!:love:

[momtomany]

I am so sorry that you and Sydney have had such a trying couple of days. Prayers continuing that all will be fine with your fur baby. I can't believe they left the catheter and I would be very upset also. Hang in there, all of us here are praying for you both.

[Emeraldgreen]

There explaination was -"She thought I took it out and I thought she took it out".

You should mention this directly to your vet when you next see her. A customer would never be expected to remove a catheter unless it had been pre-arranged with you and the vet. When a catheter is removed, I think (:confused:) pressure is usually applied to the hole to prevent bruising and make sure the bleeding stops. It's their responsibility and they are trying to sweep it under the rug.

I hope that Sydney is doing okay. Please keep us posted. :)

[kittykatharine]

Ok, so Sydney went in for her re-staging today. The vet performed x-rays, ultrasound, and blood work. The vet told me that her heart did not look to enlarged but she did say she saw some lesions on her liver and some dark shading on her kidney. She said this could be a result of scar tissue or residual tumors the treatment has not effected. She said that in a few days when the results of the ultrasound come back, I will find out whether I can go forth with the current chemo treatment or switch to other chemo drugs. I am super worried, and all I can do right now is pray for her. If I have to switch to other chemo drugs, and the price goes up, I am at my financial limit. Please if we ever needed PT prayers, now this is it. Please pray that the ultrasounds are all good results. I am expecting a call from the vet tomorrow or the next day. I will post the results as soon as I find out. Thank you so much for the the positive vibes and prayers.

[kittykatharine]

You are not going to believe this, but just as I posted my last post, pleaing for prayers, the vet called. The results where in and they were all GREAT! Her heart is not enlarged and the ventricles and valves all looked good. Also the dark shading on her kidney and the lesion on her liver all turned out to be scar tissue from where tumors where destroyed. There appears to be no additional tumor growth. So the Chemo is WORKING! She is going to get her scheduled chemo this Wednesday, which is only five days later than expected. I am just so exsctatic! I am going to celebrate by giving her favorite canned food. Thanks for the prayers! :D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:love:

[Catty1]

YEEEEEEEEEEEHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WOOT WOOT WOOT WOOT!

OMG - it's WORKING - and on her 'innards' too, where that first idiot vet didn't even notice the cancer had spread to.

This is such GREAT news! :love:

Hugs to Sydney and to you!

[Emeraldgreen]

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YAY!!! This is so great to hear. We really needed some good news here on PT! I'm so happy for you and for your beautiful Sydney. She has such a fighting spirit. I'll never forget the first day you posted that picture of her with the tumor and since then she has gone through so much and it was all worth it! Thanks for letting us know. Please give her a big hug!

[momtomany]

Oh how wonderful and thank you God for answering prayers for Sydney. Please keep this sweet kitty and her fur momma in your care and keep Sydney on the mend.

[rosethecopycat]

Bless you Sydney, you are a trooper!

*reaches in pocket to find another small donation to mail*
:love::love::love::love::love:

[Medusa]

Wow, if ever I needed to hear some good news, it's now! Sydney sure has had more than her share of problems and I'm so glad that the chemo is working. Bet you're gonna sleep tonight, eh? :)

[Moesha]

You cannot imagine how happy I was to read your second post. I had just read about Puddy's update and was trying to think of something encouraging to post for Medusa. Then I came and read your first post and was so saddened. THEN, to get the good news right after that! That is so great! Sydney is in my thoughts very often! Please give her some scrubbies from me!

[krazyaboutkatz]

This is wonderful news!!!:) I hope that she'll continue to do well and go into a full remission very soon. She continues to remain in my thoughts and prayers.

[jenluckenbach]

This is fantastic!!!!!

[kittykatharine]

Thanks so much guys for all the wonderful thoughts, prayers, and posts. They truly mean the world to me. I can't describe how happy I am that Sydney is doing well. She had her doxorubicin administration today, and despite the chemo she came home and was playing with her ball and being frisky. It was a nice sight to see. I just feel so blessed right now, I try to take each day as a gift, and I just couldn't be happier than I am right now. Thank you so much for the encouraging words, they were trult what got me through some of the rougher periods. Sydney is not out of the woods just yet, but at least I feel she is on the path towards remission. Thank you so much guys! :love::love::love:

[Medusa]

It warms my heart to read that Sydney is doing so well. PT prayers do work, that's for sure. The Fur Posse and I will keep them up daily. You and Sydney are always just a breath away in prayer. :)

[jennielynn1970]

I'm so glad that she is doing so well. Thank goodness those tests came back that things were fine, and the tumors were destroyed by the chemo.

Big hugs to you, and soft and loving pets to Sydney!

[kittykatharine]

Sydney is going in for her 10th chemo administration tomorrow. I was freaking out earlier this week because of all the hurricanes, and I pray we dont have to evacuate or mess up Sydney's chemo schedule. I will post her results tomorrow. Thanks for the prayers everyone!:love::love::love:

[Catty1]

Prayers for GOOD WEATHER!:D

How many more treatments does Sydney have?

[Emeraldgreen]

I hope that Sydney's 10th chemo treatment goes smoothly and that you won't need to evacuate! How scary. Please keep us updated. :)

[kittykatharine]

Sydney's blood test came back again as everything normal. The vet said she looks great! She now is only going in to have chemo every other week, which is less stressful for her and less stressful on my pocket book. in fact, she doesnt have to go back for 1 month, because in two weeks, the chemo drug she gets I give her at home. So, this will give her some time to feel like things are "normal" again. Sydney has 8 more chemo treatments given every two weeks. Meanwhile, I am going to the store to stock up on non-perishable foods, batteries, and gas. Please pray that we do not get the hurricane(s) here. Sydney is doing great!:love::love::love:

[Medusa]

Good news about Sydney! Now we'll concentrate on praying that the weather holds. :)

[momtomany]

Prayers for all whom the hurricane may impact. It is great news that Sydney is doing so well.

[Catty1]

KK - are you ok? Any news on the hurricanes?

This thread in General is keeping things updated.

PRAYERS for all the people and pets affected by this. Be safe!

[kittykatharine]

We are ok right now, although we get a "Tornado Warning" posted every few minutes. The kitties are scared and hiding in their spots and the turtle is having a blast playing on the porch. I am praying that New Orleans is ok, that is one of the most wonderful cities with so much culture to offer. Well, I have to go back to the bathroom - another tornado warning just went off. I will post tommorrow to let everyone know how we are doing:(:(:(

[Catty1]

HUGS and prayers...latest I heard is that Gustav is now a cat 2.

Stay safe!

[kittykatharine]

We survived the storm and had no damage, which was really nice for once. The bad news is Sydney has not been doing very well this last week. Ever since her last chemo admin, she has been vomiting. I have been giving her nausea medicine to help, but she obviously doesn't feel well. She is also going through a not eating stage. I have tried yogurt, wet food, nutrical, dry food, a tons of different varieties of each, and she is just not interested. She just wants to be left alone. It is sad in the mornings because she hides from me, just to make sure today is not a "chemo day". She seems so happy to see me leave, but I am hoping this will wear off since she isn't going in for awhile. I am thinking about cooking some fresh chicken - she typically likes that a lot - so we shall see. I hope no one was negatively effected from the storm. Thanks for the prayers everyone!:love::love::love:

[Medusa]

I'm glad to hear that you survived the storm intact but saddened to hear that Sydney is feeling punk. Goodness, our kitties can give us some scary moments, can't they? We'll keep the prayers going up for you, Katherine, and for Sydney we'll pump up the volume. :)

[Moesha]

Oh dear! Ms Sydney...don't scare your mommy like this. Eat your yums!

Sure hope that she comes around and starts feeling better.

[Catty1]

Awww...Poor Sydney and poor you!

I would guess, only guessing, that the stress of the storm and the chemo are working together and she isn't well...this last treatment was the heavier one, wasn't it?

{{{HUGS}}} and prayers that Miss Sydney is back to her feisty self in no time. :love::love:

[jennielynn1970]

Poor Sydney. So much going on around her, and she's not feeling well! I hope the roasted/baked chicken you make will perk up her appetite.

Hugs to you sweet Sydney! Feel better and don't worry mom so much!

[kittykatharine]

Hi everyone! I have figured our finally what was making Sydney sick: it was in fact the anti-nausea medicine. After some investigating, one of the main side effects of the metoclopramide is NAUSEA, and this I believe led to her getting sicker and sicker. Poor thing was getting sick from the nausea medicine and I kept giving her the anti-nausea medicine. After I completely discontinued the nausea medicine her appetite came back, the vomiting stopped, and she is back to her normal energy level. It was a relief. I had another scare today though, when I got home from work, I had a message on my answer machine with the vet saying I had missed a chemo administration. I quickly checked my medical records and found that this was in fact wrong (because I would NEVER miss a chemo admin) and had to call the vet and explain to her that Sydney was on schedule. After her file was checked it was agreed that she was indeed on schedule. It just adds to the point that we have to be diligent in the care of our loved ones, because doctors make mistakes too. You have to play an active role in the care, otherwise you cannot detect what is going wrong. So, Sydney is doing fine at this point in time. She was actually chasing her tail today, which brought the biggest grin to my face. She is still hiding under the bed in the mornings when I leave for work, but I make sure to go in there and tell her she is not going in for therapy today. So all is well at this point. Thank you so much for the prayers and thoughts. PT is such a wonderful and helpful place. Makes all the difference!:love::love::love:

[Moesha]

SO glad you figured out what was making her sick! Keep up the good work mom and Sydney!!! I think of you often and have been wondering how you have been doing.

[Catty1]

YAAY!

Let me get this straight...one of the side effects of an anti-nausea medication is NAUSEA????

Who got paid good research money to come up with THAT one? :rolleyes::D

[Medusa]

YAAY!

Let me get this straight...one of the side effects of an anti-nausea medication is NAUSEA????

Who got paid good research money to come up with THAT one? :rolleyes::D

Isn't that ridiculous? I looked into a patch for air sickness when I was flying a lot and one of the side effects was nausea. Honestly.

I'm so glad that Sydney is doing better, though. Sounds like you're having better luck than I am right now.

[catlover32648]

I hope everything will be alright. I will pray daily for this beauty.

[kittykatharine]

Thank you everyone for your support. I have been so busy with school and work, it has been very difficult to find time to post bulletins, although I am reading them all still :-). Sydney was still not eating today so I called the vet back and got an appetite stimulant. I have it to her around 3:00 and she was at least attempting to eat around 5:00. She is still not eating normally, but at least she is eating something. She ate about 2 tablespoons worth of wet food for dinner, which was a major improvement. She is still in good spirits, and continues to run around the house and act ok. I am hoping that this appetite stimulant can allow for me time to plump her up. She has lost some definite weight, although I am not sure how much- at least 2 lbs. Please keep your prayers up, because this last few chemo administrations have taken a toll on Sydney. I fear her lack of eating has hindered her healing. She doesn't have to go in for chemo until next Friday, so she has one more week to adjust. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers. :love::love::love:

[Catty1]

BIG PT PRAYERS for Sydney, such a beautiful girl - humans lose weight and eat little when they have chemo also. Would she go for some melted ice cream, some little treat like that? It would help plump her up some.

Good for you eating, Sydney...you keep going, now! :love:

How many more treatments, KK?

[kittykatharine]

I havent tried ice cream, but she would have nothing to do with the yogurt. She has six treatments left - she should be done December 3rd (which is ironically the day before the anniversary of Baby's passing 2 years ago). I worry about her, but she is hanging in there and seems to be doing reasonably fine. I try to take her out on the front porch, because that uplifts her spirits and makes her happy.

Any suggestions on type of ice cream? flavor?

[Catty1]

I was thinking vanilla? Get a really small container to try first (unless you are an ice cream nut! :D ).

I know adult cats aren't supposed to have milk or milk products in case of lactose intolerance - but heck, if she'll lap it up, go for it! Maybe several teaspoons a day? That'll at least add some calories and fat and some calcium.

You could ask your vet about Hill's A/D - it's used for surgical recovery and all, comes as a wet food, and is PACKED with nutrients. Too rich for normal healthy cats. If your vet approves, maybe she will give you a free can to try.

[katslady]

I wish Sydney soooo much good luck and hopes will improve her appetite. good luck and our prayers are with her. katslady

[Medusa]

I havent tried ice cream, but she would have nothing to do with the yogurt. She has six treatments left - she should be done December 3rd (which is ironically the day before the anniversary of Baby's passing 2 years ago). I worry about her, but she is hanging in there and seems to be doing reasonably fine. I try to take her out on the front porch, because that uplifts her spirits and makes her happy.

Any suggestions on type of ice cream? flavor?

My Puddy loves chocolate ice cream, takes after her Mom. It's believed that many cats are lactose intolerant but that certainly is not the case w/my Fur Posse. When I was rescuing, I gave them warm heavy cream every day to put fat on them while they were still outdoors in the brutal Ohio winter and they now have the remainder of skim milk in my cereal bowl w/no side effects whatsoever. I guess cats are like people; some can tolerate lactose, some can't. Besides, you don't have to give her all that much. I sure hope she feels better and will continue to thrive. She's always in my prayers and so are you, Katherine. :)

[kittykatharine]

I am really becoming discouraged at this point. She has been on the appetite stimulants for three days and she still isnt eating very well. She looks much skinnier than she was and she just wants to hide under the bed. I dont know that she can handle anymore chemo...she hasnt been to the vet in over three weeks, and you have guessed from her behavior that she went today. I am very very very upset. She was doing so well and now this. It makes me cry thinking about not having my baby girl with me. I am going to keep trying to feed her, please pray for her - she and I really need it. :(

[momtomany]

You could try Gerber baby food, chicken flavor. You could give it to her by itself or mix it with KMR (kitten milk replacement). This is what I use when fostering kittens and it really helps them. Of course my guys always have to have some when I fostering and they enjoy it.

[Medusa]

They just can turn on a dime, can't they? I'm so sorry, Katherine. Everything sounded so hopeful. Maybe she's just going through a bad patch. We'll certainly keep the prayers going for Sydney and you. (((HUGS))) to you and soft pets to Sydney. Keep the faythe. :)

[Moesha]

I think of you and Sydney often. Thank you for sharing her ups and downs with us. Hopefully she'll be feeling better soon and more willing to eat.

[jennielynn1970]

I'm keeping you and Sydney in my thoughts every day. I may not post as much, just from working a lot, but I think of you two (and many others) daily. I hope that Sydney will start to eat more and feel better. That sweet face of hers in your siggy just breaks my heart.

big hugs to you and Sydney :love::love:

[Catty1]

More prayers for beautiful Sydney.:love:

[kittykatharine]

Last night I went to the store and bought some baby food and I was able to get Sydney to eat some. I was able to get her to eat 2 tbsp last night, and she finished the jar this morning. She also ate some dried food, so I am hoping this is perking her up at last. My concern is chemo on friday. We shall see, I just hope that she sticks to eating the baby food. I have four different bags of dried food, nine different types of wet food, ice cream, yogurt, and now baby food. She just gets tired of a food and refuses to eat it any more. Keep the prayers and positive thoughts - every time you guys send them our way, things seem to improve. Thank you so much!:love::love::love:

[Medusa]

Keep the prayers and positive thoughts - every time you guys send them our way, things seem to improve. Thank you so much!:love::love::love:

You know we will. The Fur Posse and I join forces every day and night for our PT family. :):love:

[Catty1]

More prayers for Sydney - come on, little girl, just the last hurdle, a few more treatments. One pawstep at a time, your meowmie and all of us are with you. :love::love::love:

[momtomany]

Of course we will keep the prayers going up for you both. I am glad that Sydney ate the baby food. You know adult cats love kitten chow. She may like that also. I have a horrible time keeping my guys from tearing up kitten chow bags when I fostering. I think that is probably why they don't mind.....baby food, KMR and kitten chow.....a kitty buffet.:)

[kittykatharine]

Just so everyone knows, Sydney has begun eating normally again! I was cooking turkey yesterday and she came over an begged as usual. So I gave her a piece (the last two weeks, she would beg, sniff it, and then walk away), well with the turkey she gobbled it down like she hadn't eaten in weeks! I have been giving her small portions of turkey throughout the whole day and she has definitely eaten at least a full days worth of food. I just need to keep her eating so I can get as much nutrition as possible in her before Friday. She is also eating about a jar of baby food a day!:love::love::love:

[Moesha]

YaY Sydney!!!!!!!! Thanks for sharing the good news with us!

[Catty1]

Atta girl, Sydney! Boy, KK, what a roller-coaster that sweet faced girl has had you on!

But you look at that little face, and it's all worth it, somehow. Am I right?:):love::love:

[Emeraldgreen]

Wow! A whole jar of baby food, that is awesome! I'm glad she is hungry for turkey too. I hope she eats and eats to get big and strong for her next round of chemo. :)

[jenluckenbach]

Thank God!!

[sugarpaws]

I have been following this thread, and am so happy to hear your sweatheart is eating again. Good luck and healing wishes!
Marina

[momtomany]

Way to go Sydney. Keep up the good work and keep your Momma and all of us happy.

[kittykatharine]

Just an update...Sydney had her chemo administration on Friday (the Vincristine) and is doing surprisingly well. She is eating pretty well and she just loves the wet kitten food that I bought her. I am hoping to get her weight up because she lost 4 lbs over that horrible month she wasn't eating. I am so happy that I fattened her up before all of this because she now weighs 9 lbs - which is actually a healthy weight for her. We had one incident that happened the day I brought her home from the vet. When she comes home on chemo days, she is still kind of sedated, and she walks funny and acts loopy. Another side effect is she looses her understanding of what she is allowed to do and not. Friday when I brought her home, she some how jumped on the kitchen counter (which she is never allowed to do)- when I got up to check on her, I saw it in slow motion, her fall side ways from the counter to the floor. I ran to her to check to see if she had hurt herself, and she was laying on her side. I think because her muscles were all relaxed, when she feel she actually didn't hurt anything despite it being a pretty high fall. It was a scary, but she was ok. Things are ok for now, and I will keep everyone posted. Thanks!:love::love::love:

[moosmom]

Omg!!! Vincristine is the exact same chemotherapy they gave my daughter. That's a good thing because my daughter has been in remission for 16 years!!!

Way to go Sydney!!! You're in my thoughts and prayers.

[jennielynn1970]

Oh Sydney! Don't scare meowmie and us so much doing such acrobatics!!!

Big hugs to you, Katherine, and to sweet Sydney! :love:

[Medusa]

Yikes, that would've scared me! I'm sure glad Sydney is ok, sweet girl. She sure does seem to be a lioness.

[Moesha]

I'm sending big hugs to Sydney and a kiss on her nose!

[Catty1]

Sydney! *kiss* :love:

Eating all that kitten food...having a second kittenhood with your loving meowmie around?

Remember your second kittenhood does not include jumping up on counters! ;)

She is doing so well. Great news!

One treatment down, five to go. :)

KK - how are the finances holding up? Did you get to put cans in the school caf or at that other consignment store? Let us know!

[kittykatharine]

Sydney! *kiss* :love:

Eating all that kitten food...having a second kittenhood with your loving meowmie around?

Remember your second kittenhood does not include jumping up on counters! ;)

She is doing so well. Great news!

One treatment down, five to go. :)

KK - how are the finances holding up? Did you get to put cans in the school caf or at that other consignment store? Let us know!


Finances have been better :rolleyes:, Although I put cans around my school work, and a few stores by my house - they only totaled about $18. Everyone is hurting so badly because of the economy - that there is nothing really left to give. I was able to talk a professor into giving me some more of his unused books and I was able to make $150 off of that. My sweet parents have been trying to help me whenever they can, despite struggling as well. I luckily was able to save some money over that month she didn't go in. I have enough for this treatment and the next, and I am going to keep trying to do what I can. The whole U.S. is hurting in the money department, it is just so hard because we are all being paid less than we need to live - and that excludes the medical emergencies. I am doing what I can to get by, and when Sydney improves it makes all the sacrifices I have made worth it. I would never have done it differently. Thank you so much asking, you have been so wonderful this entire expereince:love::love::love:

[Catty1]

KK - a sports centre here was raising money to help build a badly needed other one, and a worker there came up with the idea of collecting 1 million pennies!

Now, if you do the math - say you need $1,000 - you would need 100,000 pennies. (Anyone feel free to correct my math).

If you ask for pennies in the cans - I bet more people would part with them. Just stick a label on them saying "Goal - 100,000 pennies". It's a neat psychological trick that worked GREAT here.

(Ask your bank to donate easy-to-use penny rollers!)

[kittykatharine]

KK - a sports centre here was raising money to help build a badly needed other one, and a worker there came up with the idea of collecting 1 million pennies!

Now, if you do the math - say you need $1,000 - you would need 100,000 pennies. (Anyone feel free to correct my math).

If you ask for pennies in the cans - I bet more people would part with them. Just stick a label on them saying "Goal - 100,000 pennies". It's a neat psychological trick that worked GREAT here.

(Ask your bank to donate easy-to-use penny rollers!)


That is a great idea, and i am open to trying anything. I will go around to my cans tomorrow and put the labels on them. Hopefully it will help some! Thanks again!:love::love::love: