Griffin is home and resting comfortably. His oncologist is adamant that neither the Piroxicam nor acupuncture have anything to do with his current paralysis, and while she cannot say with absolute certainty, she believes his cancer has metastasized to his spine.

I'm going to spend time with my boy today, reach out to my family, and do some thinking, so I won't post another update until tomorrow. Your prayers and support have been amazing - thank you! 💗

Griffin passed away peacefully in my arms at home this morning.  His health declined significantly in the last few days and he had been unable to walk on his hind legs since Tuesday afternoon.  His doctors believe that the cancer metastasized along his spine causing the paralysis.  While I’d happily carry Griffin anywhere he wanted to go, the mobility issue prevented him from toileting comfortably and he was unable to move himself around while lying down.  Those serious quality of life issues threatened to rob Griffin of his dignity and the peaceful transition that he deserved, and so in the end, the decision was painful but not difficult.  My love for Griffin gave me the strength to let him go.

My heart is shattered.  Griffin has been my constant companion for 11 years and I don’t quite know what life looks like without him by my side.  I do know that he lived an amazing life.  From the time he was a puppy, he grew up in schools and made so many kids (and adults!) happy.  His therapy dog work at the children’s hospital gave him purpose, one that he fulfilled with delight and sensitivity.  Griffin was dubbed the mayor of my apartment building and he had many fans throughout our neighborhood.  His ability to radiate joy brightened so many days!

I was anticipating many more happy years with Griffin, but I take solace in the fact that he made the most of the time he had.  His diagnosis of osteosarcoma in March and amputation surgery in April did not keep him down long.  To say he bounced back is an understatement – he was running and playing fetch 10 days later!  Griffin battled cancer for 11 months, much longer than the prognosis he was given in July when he was diagnosed with lung tumors.  His will to live did not surprise me (or anyone who knew him well) and I am ever so grateful that we had additional months together.  The pandemic presented a unique challenge, but Griffin lived long enough to spend quality time with everyone he loved best, and I am immensely comforted in knowing he basked in the love he received.

If you would be so kind, when replying to this post please share something about Griffin that makes you happy.  That’s how I want you to remember him, and reading your stories will make me happy, too – exactly the legacy that Griffin would want to leave behind.

We took a walk to Griffin’s favorite park this morning and I’m so glad that this will be one of my final memories of him.