02/20/2025
Just wanted to update everyone about Lilly Grace (profile picture). If you will remember, Lilly had a lump pop up on her front left leg March 2023. It grew VERY rapidly. We had it removed May 2023 and unfortunately, it did come back as cancerous. When I asked the vet her prognosis, I was told this type of cancer is typically 3-6 months before they succumb. We started her on prednisone to slow the growth (they were unable to get clean margins due to nerves and blood vessels being entangled).
Here we are almost 2 years later and she is still with us. I have put off euthanasia for 2 years because I just couldn't bear the thought. She doesn't act like she's in pain. She still has control of bladder and bowels. She moves very slowly. Her front legs are very bowed now that she's older, making it more difficult to get around. But overall, she's a happy pup. Unfortunately, the cancer is back. It has been growing for months now and the prednisone is no longer helping. I have asked my vet multiple times "when do I make the call?" His answer has always been "you'll know." I love ALL of my dogs but Lilly is my heart dog. She will be the one that hurts the most for years and years. I have had dogs my entire life and I have only ever had one other heart dog. It was my 1st pug, Cody. I got him when I was 10 years old and he was 15 years old when he passed away in his sleep. That was 15 years ago and it still hits like a ton of bricks when I come across his collar. Lilly will be much the same. Her time is coming soon. She will be cremated and brought back home to stay. I'm not sure when I will take her in, but it won't be long. Her cancer has grown to be about 5 lumps ranging in size from grape to ping pong all on one stubby leg. So hug your babies tight, and love them while they're here. Our time with them will never be long enough.
