06/10/2023
Some may remember Cooper (now Buxton) of our Scruffy litter. We posted a couple months back, asking for special prayers for one of our alumni, not releasing information out of courtesy to his devastated family.
We are now able to provide details with the permission of his amazing mom and dad.
In June of last year, Buxton’s mom contacted us to let us know he’d been diagnosed with Thyroid cancer. To say we were heartbroken, is an understatement. Fortunately, his parents were in excellent veterinary hands and proactive in scheduling him for surgery.
They kept us informed through his surgery and recovery, while we all held our breaths waiting for the biopsy results. Despite having his thyroid gland removed; he recovered well and never lost a beat!
Then the word came- it was cancer (a suspected carcinoma). Next, came the oncologist. We continued prayer, offering any assistance to help them as they prepared to find how far it had spread. The Oncologist was fairly confident the vet had removed the entirety of the tumor. We rejoiced, knowing his journey wasn’t yet complete.
With supplements and tasty treats, Buxton headed in to November with clear chest X-rays!
In March of this year, Buxton went for a follow-up appointment. He’d been doing well! Eating, playing, loving the high life. However, the vet noticed a lump in his neck. Unsure if it was scar tissue, or a reoccurrence, he was scheduled for a follow up with his Oncologist.
On March 16, they shared the news that his cancer had returned, but that it had not spread to his lungs or heart. They were given several treatment options, each which they carefully researched before making a decision.
March 24th began his first round of chemo. His mom made plans to take a leave of absence from work- something we’re forever thankful for.
April 1st he had his 4th dose of chemo. At that time, his mom relayed that they were looking in to radiation options. They continued treatment until May 24th, when Buxton became unable to tolerate it. His parents, along with their veterinary and oncology team made the decision to give his body a break.
Enter UGA and his very determined family. His mom made the trip down for his initial consultation.
On June 2nd, his mom sent the following:
“Quick update…really impressed with UGA, both the facility and the staff. After an onslaught of tests, they surprised us with the option of surgery vs radiation. (we have now learned that there are a lot of potential side effects to radiation that we were not previously led to believe). They were able to get us scheduled for next week, which we’re relieved about, so we don’t have to spend weeks worrying about it. Our Airbnb is very nice, particularly the lovely fenced in yard, and it’s only 15 minutes to UGA. In between we are juggling repairs at the mountain house, so we are both extremely road weary, and exhausted in general. Hoping that July/August brings a smidgen of relief and that we don’t go broke. Onward and upward.”
Wednesday, we got word UGA completed his second surgery. His mom said it went well and that they’d be able to pick him up the following morning!
Tonight, he is resting comfortably at home. We posted this incredibly lengthy story, in hopes of not only asking for continued prayers, but also to ask of you would help us-
Though they have never once asked us for help, those that remember Buxton’s journey, know how special this boy is to us. He found the most incredible family, one that has gone above and beyond for their boy. We would like nothing more than to offer SOMETHING back to them, to help offset their substantial costs.
If you can spare the smallest amount, please consider helping us, help them. We will turn any earnings over to his family. We only ask that you mark your donation for “Buxton.” A reminder that your donations are tax deductible.
PayPal.Me/ARescueTail
