WonderDog's 7th Birthday and Cancer Prognosis

[Michele, Biscuit & Mo]

Ah, me!  It's been so long since I posted here on DoodleKisses!  This last year seems to have gotten away from us, but please don't think we've deserted you.  While I haven't been that active here lately, the pups and I have lurked on a regular basis and stayed in touch with those of you who have been so nice to email and comment on our page.

To give you an update, here's what went on in our lives in 2011:

- My husband was diagnosed with a recurrence of prostate cancer

- My mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer

- Penny was diagnosed with mast cell cancer

- My mother (in Michigan) suffered a stroke in July and spent two months in rehab

- I dealt with a few health issues of my own

- My mother suffered a second, massive stroke in October

Between doctors' offices, hospitals, nursing homes, and business travel, you can imagine that I haven't had a lot of extra time around here.  :-)  Things are under control here now, but we take one day at a time.

Penny celebrated her 7th birthday yesterday!  She was diagnosed with mast cell cancer almost one year ago and continues to hang in there.  We thought we'd only have her around for 3 more months, but we're coming up on a year.  Her Palladia medication has worked wonders to this point.  I'm sad to say that at last week's check-up, they found new growth on her lymph nodes, which doesn't bode well.  But we're working on increasing her medication and hopefully it won't take too much of a toll on her.  No matter what, we are focused on giving her the best quality of life she has left.  Each day with her is an absolute joy, and she loves her little sister Biscuit.

I took some video last night of their usual romp.  As you can see, Penny is doing great.  I can't imagine life without her (can't remember what life was like BEFORE her!), but work hard to balance reality with the precious moments of the day.

We love you ALL for your concern and continued support - there's no place like DoodleKisses!

[Lisa, Daisy & Dexter]

I really should have waited to read this when I got home...I have a feeling of joy that cannot be denied when I watch these two and tears of happiness.

Michele you are one strong woman. I hope this year brings many good things to you and yours.

Happy Birthday Penny.

I wish you love, joy, health and also peace for the things we cannot control.

[Doris, Knox & Flash]

Goodness, what a rough year you have had!  Glad to hear that everyone is ok momentarily. Penny looks great and I really enjoyed the video with her and Biscuit!  Tell her "Happy Birthday" from me and Knox!

[Nina, Phil, Harlow & Lacey]

Happy B'day Penny!  You look absolutely fabulous! 

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

Wow, that is a whole bunch of adorableness going on there.  They look so great together.  You would never know anything is going on with Penny.  Wishing her a wonderful birthday.  Wishing you and your family and happy and healthier New Year!  Keep in touch when you can. 

[Anna and Achilles]

Happy Birthday Penny! I hope the new medication work well. You have been through a great deal. I wish you luck and good health for all.

Video was adorable, the music was very doodley!

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

Michele, what a year you have had.  I'm so delighted to see Penny looking good and having fun.  It''s wonderful to see her and Biscuit together.   Happy Happy birthday Penny,  Good wishes and good health to all of you.

[Jarka, Monty & Auggie]

I'm so sorry you had to deal with all those issues. Happy Birthday, Penny, have a very healthy 2012. All the best to the whole family as well.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I am very sorry to hear of all the illness. Penny does look wonderful and I hope the medication increase keeps her going for a very long time. Happy Birthday Penny and many more. Wishing you all a healthy 2012.