Joy

NO CANCER.  Vet isn't sure what it is but knows it's not cancer. The jolt of elation that pulsed when I heard those words.  Oh my, joy and relief.  Instantly felt lighter.  The heavy, burdensome cloak of doom that had engulfed me disappeared immediately. Ramona felt the excitement as I spoke with the vet because she awoke from her nap and wandered over to be near me. I swear I could see relief in her soulful eyes as her tail wagged incessantly.  Happy Days!!!!!

Waiting

It's 3:36pm PST. Today is when the vet is scheduled to call to share results of Ramona's biopsy.  For humans, the past week has been miserable. I've been a black hole. Bill worried. Friends calling, emailing and texting, wondering. Ms. Mona by the nature of being a canine is oblivious. Her leg is still tender and she doesn't put too much weight on it. However, that doesn't stop her from wanting to run down two flights of stairs but we don't. The elevator is our friend.  I watch carefully as she jumps into and out of the 4 Runner, teaching hear to first jump onto the floor board and then climb into the back seat. Once in the car, she assumes the position of leaning against the back of the seat with her head out the window, watching the world pass.  She's learned to eat a spoonful of peanut butter and still manage to spite out the pain pills.  She's one smart dog.  And so we wait.  Tick Tock.

Ramona Pearl

My girl has been limping a little more after our daily hikes. Also noticed an occasional stumble.  The other day she squatted to pee and toppled to one side. Not funny. I immediately called the vet. Went in a got x-rays.  There was a mass on her left femur.  Couldn't tell what it was exactly. Infection or tumor. Did the bone biopsy yesterday. NOT an infection. Have to wait for a week before we know what we are dealing with. Biopsies are sent to UC Davis. Nerves are all askew. Worst scenario is bone cancer which means leg amputation  We can put men on the moon, make titanium legs for human amputees and yet haven't figured out how to do the same for dogs.  The news we want and pray for is a benign mass.  Light candles, say prayers, send good vibes for my sweet face girl.