When You Just Can’t Do Nothing

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Chuckles is going to receive radiation treatments for his brain tumor. On Tuesday of next week, he will have another MRI and a CT scan to map the tumor for the radiation. If all goes well, they will begin treatment within 2 days. The protocol is for a total of 20 treatments,  given once daily, Monday through Friday for 4 weeks. Each one hits the tumor with a small dose of radiation. 

After the 2 hour consult on Monday with his radiation oncologist, I left feeling overwhelmed. So much to absorb and consider.  But by Wednesday I made the decision to go forward with treatment. When I looked at him lying in his bed, subdued but still so full of life, I knew that I could not do nothing. I realized that while there is risk, there is also a chance that he could have a good outcome. If I do nothing, there is no chance at all.

Chuckles at C.F.'s House

Who could say no to that face?

Even though it was a big relief just to make the decision, we’ve got a long way to go yet. The radiation could make the tumor bleed again. He could have a seisure. Each treatment requires him to be anesthetized, which is a risk in and of itself. But it’s like reading the side effects of your medication. If you worry about each one you’ll probably never take it! Once I stopped focusing on what could go wrong and started focusing on what could go right, the way became clear.

Then too, I know myself, and I know that I would regret not doing all that I could within reason. Living with regret is a lot tougher, and lingers longer, than accepting a loss. All of my friends have been so supportive of my decision and tell me that I am doing the right thing. And in my heart I know it’s true. IMG_2486

 

 

16 thoughts on “When You Just Can’t Do Nothing”

  3. I remember arriving that first day at your house and being greeted by the most friendly dog I had ever met. No barking, just friendly butt and tail wagging. He still greets me this way! Get well soon my dear friend!

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  4. I am pulling for Chuckles all the way. You made the right decision. I just found out from Chase’s vet that he has an “abnormality” on his spleen, which may also be affecting his liver. Unclear if it is malignant, benign, or nothing. I will be making an appt. for him on Monday with a veterinary specialist in Maitland, FL. I will be praying for both of these wonderful pups!

    On Fri, Aug 12, 2016 at 6:04 PM, The Bohemian Freethinker wrote:

    > thebohemianfreethinker posted: “Chuckles is going to receive radiation > treatments for his brain tumor. On Tuesday of next week, he will have > another MRI and a CT scan to map the tumor for the radiation. If all goes > well, they will begin treatment within 2 days. The protocol is for a tot” >

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