Hi everyone, Bonnie and I just wanted to post an update.   We are in a holding pattern now.  The chemo is done and the second set of xrays were clear.  So far, so good!   We had an odd reading on the blood test.  The bilirubin level was high on the test they did when she went in for her second set of xrays so we had to go to our local vet for a follow-up test.  That test showed no problems other than her cholesterol was a little high.  We are trying to work that out with a better diet but her appetite is still not back full.  Some days she eats everything and other days we are begging her to eat anything.  The cholesterol problem probably is a result of too much cheese.  It is one of the few things she will eat and I just feel it helps control the never-ending diarrhea for her.  Today she ate turkey and broccoli but no dog food that was mixed in.  But, she is happy.   She is walking more each day and I can only hope that everything is doing ok.  I would be happy to have her eat but her glucose is pretty stable at least.  All in all, I have my chocolate and she is happy.  Every day is a gift and I am happy for that. 

Hi Chris & Bonnie,

I'm not a vet, but I think I have read that the chemo can cause the bilirubin levels to rise in the liver.  Maybe Vet Pam can share some insight.  I'd say, all in all, you've got great news and we're certainly very, very happy for you!  

Love, Blazer, Kitty Kimber & Mom (Vicki)

Thank you both for the encouragement.  We need it tonight.  I just got a call from the oncologist and they did a biopsy on a spot on Bonnie's nose that I thougt was just a wart.  WRONG!   Mast cell tumor.  Here we go again.  On top of that the urinalysis showed protein in her urine so they want to check that out.  Her fructosamine level which is the long range glucose value is also low. 

We have an appointment tomorrow morning for the internist to try to contain the diabetes and then the surgeon for a consult.  I have not really had time to do anything but hug Bonnie.  So much good news and so much bad.  She is such a loving puppy and I can't imagine more pain.  It does explain a lot though - especially her lack of appetite. 

Bonnie is a trooper and therefore so am I.  Pray for us.  We beat it once.  I just need another miracle.

Just an update on Bonnie.  We went to UPenn this morning at 9 and got home at 7 this eve.   They were worried about the Mast Cell tumor on her nose and we needed more testing.  She has not had much of an appetite and we just wanted to be sure about our course of action. 

Somehow the news makes the OS diagnosis look like good news.  She not only has a mast cell tumor on her nose, but also has some in her spleen.   The oncologists are still looking at the tests to be sure of everything.  Amazingly, her lymph nodes are not swollen.  Therefore they are wondering if it is two different mast cells versus one that has spread.  We can look at removing the one from her nose and removing the spleen, but how much do I put Bonnie through?  I am researching but would love to hear if anyone else has encountered both cancers at once and how they dealt with it. 

At this point we are rock bottom.  Bonnie is exhausted from a full day of tests and I am just numb.  All I can do is hold her and love her.  Both her mom and her brother are being so careful and loving.  I know that she is not at the end right now, but I have no idea how things are going to go or what to do.  She beat cancer once - that should be enough for one dog. I know the amputation was the right thing.  I know the chemo was the right thing.  Now I have no idea what the right thing is.

Thank you all!  We will hear from UPenn again today so I will know more.  Waiting is dreadful.  I work from home so it should be easy, but I am doing no work because I am sitting on the floor with my puppy pile all day.  Bonnie's mom and brother are so good with her.  My heart is ripping apart because I cannot do more. 

Pam, thanks, I will ask the oncologists about the new Pfizer drug.  That sounds like my best hope.  I asked about the grade of the tumor and did not get an answer yesterday.  Can they determine that from the aspiration or do they need to do a biopsy? 

One thing that UPenn does do is type up a report to give you before you leave.  Because the spleen aspiration was not done until late, it was not included on the report but they will get that to me in the next one.  The main thing that they want us to focus on is getting her diabetes under control.  That will give her more stamina to get through the rest of the trauma.  So we are taking it one minute at a time and I am cherishing every single second of each minute.  Thanks for all your support.  I never thought we would have to fight another battle on a second front.   Hopefully Bonnie will stay my warrior and let me know when she needs my help.   

Hang in there, Chris.  I know this had to be a huge emotional blow.  I can only hope UPenn will have news that will give you hope.  My thoughts are with you and Bonnie.