The Roller Coasters Of Life

Over the last five days or so we've been on a roller coaster of emotions with our dog Lily.

While camping she began having difficulty breathing and not being able to keep food or water down. Chris took her to the nearest emergency vet hospital where they put her on IV, sedated her and found a variety of maladies - the combination of which put her in critical condition. We made the decision to transfer her to a different emergency vet hospital in Tacoma (the next closest) to be able to see a specialist and get more information (underlying causes, etc) before deciding how to proceed.

Since we've been here in Tacoma it's been close to the end and then it's been a bit better. It's been up and down, each day waiting for a different test, a new hope, a bit of recovery.

Riding the coaster is hard. Being here with family while riding the coaster makes things easier and keeps the kids entertained.

Today she seems on the upswing, able to keep some food down last night, but there's still other conditions that need to be addressed. We're waiting for another update from the main doctor today to determine the next course of action.

Lily's 11. She's had an awesome full life and has been a great companion for our family.

I appreciate your patience and your kindness towards our family and Lily as we move forward in the coming days.

Related Posts

Sign in or sign up to comment.

307 thoughts

  1. Jamie De Luna says…
    07/13/2011

    Prayers for Lily and family.

    Reply 0 Replies
  2. Kayla says…
    07/13/2011

    Thinking of you and your sweet family and praying for comfort for you all.

    Reply 0 Replies
  3. Lori says…
    07/13/2011

    I still remember one of your first published layouts (perhaps in CK?) where you and your beautiful dog Lily were walking along the Oregon coast.

    Pets are such an important part of our lives and help to feed our souls. Take all the time you need...

    Reply 0 Replies
  4. Heather says…
    07/13/2011

    I can only imagine. Keeping Lily and all of you in our prayers.

    Reply 0 Replies
  5. Susan Anderson says…
    07/13/2011

    Prayers for you, your family and Lily.

    Reply 0 Replies
  6. Beth Holmes says…
    07/13/2011

    Sending hugs, thoughts and prayers. We lost our family friend and beloved canine companion of 15 years last year after many ups and downs. I'm glad you have lots of family around for comfort.

    Reply 0 Replies
  7. char says…
    07/13/2011

    Keeping Lily in my thoughts. These furry friends manage to creep into our hearts and are part of our family.

    Reply 0 Replies
  8. arlene says…
    07/13/2011

    It is so hard to watch your dog suffer when you can't explain it to them. Lots of prayers for you all.

    Reply 0 Replies
  9. Robin says…
    07/13/2011

    Thinking and praying for all of you!

    Reply 0 Replies
  10. Leigh says…
    07/13/2011

    Thinking of you and your precious Lily.

    Reply 0 Replies
  11. Melissa says…
    07/13/2011

    Ali, I was so afraid that this was why you were quiet. Give sweet Lily all the time that she needs. Prayers for her and for you to have wisdom when you need it most. Blessings to all.

    Reply 0 Replies
  12. Laura says…
    07/13/2011

    Oh, Ali. I'll be thinking of you and Lily. There are no words to describe how hard having a sick animal is...Especially one that's such a part of your family. Keep us posted.

    Reply 0 Replies
  13. Marie-Pierre says…
    07/13/2011

    Lots of love and energy to you, your family and Lily.

    Reply 0 Replies
  14. MichelleGB says…
    07/13/2011

    Sending positive thoughts for Lily and all of you at this difficult time.

    Reply 0 Replies
  15. Krista Nash says…
    07/13/2011

    Strong prayers being sent your way!

    Reply 0 Replies
  16. Courtney says…
    07/13/2011

    Praying for you, your family and Lily.

    Reply 0 Replies
  17. Courtney says…
    07/13/2011

    It is a hard path to walk, I am so sorry! Prayers for Lilly and your family during this time!

    Reply 0 Replies
  18. Shelly Van W says…
    07/13/2011

    Here is hoping for a full recovery. Although with her age and the amount of tests, sadly, those alone could worsen her condition. I have been in your shoes and do not wish it upon anyone. These special creatures that grace our lives with their boundless love and energy. Your family has been very fortunate to have this experience with Lily, and she with you. I am glad that you are all with her. She will let you know when she is unable to continue the fight, but you must let her know that you will be okay if and when she does. Thinking of you and hoping the best for your family at this difficult time.

    Reply 0 Replies
  19. summer82 says…
    07/13/2011

    Our dog spent the day in the hospital yesterday on ivs and lots of medicines. Today is tough as she does not want to drink or take her medicine. Eating is out of the question. So hard to see your dog suffer. Good luck with your dog.

    Reply 0 Replies
  20. Lynnette says…
    07/13/2011

    My thoughts are with you. We went through the same experience not so long ago and it was a roller coaster - I teared up reading your post, because I know just how you feel. Hang in there and give Lilly your love.

    Reply 0 Replies
  21. Lorrie M says…
    07/13/2011

    My prayers are with you all... especially Lily.

    Reply 0 Replies
  22. Christine n says…
    07/13/2011

    {{{hugs}}}

    Reply 0 Replies
  23. M. MADISON says…
    07/13/2011

    ((HUGS))) for all of you.

    Reply 0 Replies
  24. Karen in Brookville says…
    07/13/2011

    I know the feelings you are having way too well. I have experienced the ups and downs many times of dealing with ill dogs. As said in other comments, you will know what to do when the time comes. Trust in your head, as sometimes, the heart wants something else. Thoughts are with you and your family.

    Reply 0 Replies
  25. Janet White says…
    07/13/2011

    As Roger Caras (the voice of Westminster for so many years) said, "Dogs are not our whole lives, but they make our lives whole."

    Shedding tears - again - as I usually do when someone faces this. They never live long enough, do they? After facing 'that decision' with many dogs over the years it never gets easier, but knowing when to make it does. All I can really say for certain is that Lilly WILL let you know the next move. A few times for us the tests made it clear it was time, but most of the time, you lock eyes with them and just know they're ready.

    Reply 0 Replies

Sign in or sign up to comment.