Rusty's Cancer Update

[Chuck Holliman]

Sorry that we have been off line for several months; I took on another committee assignment for our HOA (we are a community of 9,000 residents) in addition to my role in emergency preparedness.  The new role has kept me very busy this summer. I have an extensive update on Rusty's summer that I have posted to his blog. 

This summer were the best months that he has had since his fight with cancer began.  He is one incredible guy; Dr. Macy is amazed at how well he is fighting this terrible disease.  With the exception of his liver, all his other tests and vitals are completely normal for the first time since amputation.  We continue to battle his stomach issues, which have precluded him from taking any supplements, etc. including the Milk Thistle for his liver.  However, he is eating better and putting on weight which he was unable to do while taking any meds.  Apparently, the 12 months of chemo really did a number on his stomach.

It will be 22 months next week since his amputation and the battle began!  Seeing how active and happy he is, you would never suspect that he is a special needs dog.  We enjoy every extra day that we have with him!

Unfortunately, his liver is continuing to deteriorate, which may be a sign that the cancer is returning.  I will post an update after we receive the results of Rusty's November 30 visit with Dr. Macy; he will be doing extensive tests, including a scan, on the liver to try to find out what is going on.

A couple of weeks ago at the greenbelt, where we take Rusty for his evening adventure, we met his twin!  Her name is Katy and she is from Heather Hale Kennels in Bakersfield; Rusty’s Mom was from Heather Hale, no relationship that we can identify.  Katy is 14 months old and is the same size and color as Rusty; they have the same cut and they look like twins

 

Chuck & Rusty

[Adrianne Matzkin]

I pray that your visit to the vet will show that he is the Ever Ready Bunny!!

Paws crossed and pawsitive thoughts coming your way!

[Clifford, Cloud, Jake..and Kim]

I too send my prayers for good test results.  Rusty is often on my mind so I was glad to see an update - thank you for keeping all of us up to date.  Lots of happy thoughts coming your way!

[Barbara B., Sasha & Oliver]

Sending prayers your way .....

[sandy b]

Thank you for the update. Sending positive thoughts your way. 

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

It's such good news that Rusty is living a full life in spite of his amputation....their strength and ability to cope always amazes me.

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Chuck, I will be praying for Rusty. He is an amazing dog! Thank you for taking such good care of such a special dog. Paws and fingers crossed that you get some good news. Thank you for the update.

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

Thinking of you and sending all our prayers to Rusty and your family. Glad he is acting better and enjoying himself.

[Amy, Cubbie & Ollie]

Keeping your in our thoughts as you and Rusty continue on your journey.  Glad to hear that he had a great summer!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

We are so glad to hear that Rusty had a wonderful summer, and we are keeping him (and you) in our thoughts.

[Leslie and Halas]

I'm so happy that he's still with you, fighting this disease.  We'll be praying for him.

[Lee Seidman]

Prayers for Rusty!

[Lisa, Daisy & Dexter]

Chuck you are a busy man for sure, we should all be so dedicated.

I have Rusty in my daily prayers since first reading about him when I joined DK over a year ago. I hope he continues to improve and his liver problems are solved. It's wonderful that he leads such a happy like, do mostly do your wonderful caring and diligence.

Keep up the good work Rusty and have Happy Holidays, we will be waiting for the good news.