Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

Thanks for all the hugs, ladies. We had her oncology consult yesterday and it went better than I thought. Her prognosis didn't change - but I feel better and a sense of relief in some ways. I was really stressed because you always hear that radiation is the best and most aggressive therapy, but that it is prohibitively expensive as well as difficult on the pet. But, I was having this internal struggle and fear that they were going to tell me it was truly the best and then I was going to have to deal with my guilt of not doing it (because of expense and her quality of life.)

So, long story short, oncologist tells us that Radiation is NOT the best for her or for her cancer for diff reasons and chemo is actually better for her and her type of cancer. She was also the second doctor to tell me that she would have a hard time to do radiation on her own pets. For radiation, they have to give them gen. anesth. every time- which I DON'T want to do - and the sched is nuts - 3-5 times a week for 6 times a week - radiation burns, all that - what kind of quality of life is that for her.

Chemo is so much more "humane" - treatment once every 3-4 weeks for 6 months - 35 minutes - IV in the arm - she is in a quiet private room with two nurses - one administers the IV and chemo drug while the other holds Pookie on her lap and pets her the whole time

So - we decided to start chemo yesterday because we were both there with her and they could - so why not?

Again - her prognosis doesn't really change but I have a sense of peace that I made the best decision for her and not one that had to be based on $$$$.

The dr told me (because I asked) that she has two cats with Pookie's same cancer that are considered "cured" - have made it to the 5 year mark. She honestly doesn't feel that that is Pook's prognosis - as her tumor was bigger and much more aggressive - but I know we are doing the right thing and can extend her life, even if only for a year, while giving her happy, pain free times with us.
I was also upset thinking about the end and not knowing when the end would be and how would we know and how do we know if she's in pain,etc - and the dr was wonderful - she told us that she was there to help with us - to let us know when the end was there, to help us and help Pookie. She was wonderful and I know they care for and love my baby and will do the best they can.

Thanks for listening!!!

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

I'm glad that you're giving pookie and chance and I hope she makes a full recovery

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

i've been following your posts and i'm so happy that pookie doesn't need radiation. that would have been terrible to put her through. try not to think about when the end is coming too much and enjoy the time you do have with her.

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

I'm glad Pookie (and you guys!) will have an easier time with chemo. Your vet & staff sounds terrific, I'm glad to hear Pookie is in good hands. I'll continue to keep her in my thoughts.

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

I'm glad to hear Pookie got started on a treatment program. Stay strong and positive, you never know...Miracles happen EVERYDAY!!

I'll keep you guys in my thoughts and prayers...

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

Hugs for you and Pookie!

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

Hugs for you and prayers for Pookie

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

Prayers for Pookie and your family

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)

Re: Pookie Oncology Update (very long)