Bambi's Post Radiation Report Day

The past week went by with much nervousness and worry. After a week of radiation treatment, the wait and see period was truly unnerving. I have refrained from writing because fear and uncertainty. Realizing that uncertainty is always a fact that we face in life did not assuage my anxiety. A week of caring for Bambi consisted of making sure her meds were religiously administered by Sami (the diligent and ever faithful nurse), shopping and preparing her organic and well-balanced meals, making sure that she was comfortable and rested, and taking her out for exercise. There were times when I read aloud to her and of course, she always had Michael Jackson's beautiful music playing in the background. From observing her closely, she had some challenging moments when she did not feel too well. But for the past three days, she regained the spring in her steps and her feisty endearing ways. One thing was for certain, Bambi maintains her great appetite and her weight has been steady.

Today was the post-radiation check up with her oncologist, Dr. Lyons. When Dr. Lyons entered the exam room, a smile broke through his face as soon as he saw Bambi. She has been looking very good, even younger. Sami and I both got emotional as our vet declared that everything was looking very good, the tumor has shrunk significantly. Dr. Lyons listened carefully to Bambi's lungs, examined her from snout to tail, and declared that her healing is progressing very well. Vaccination number 2 (of 6) was administered.

We decided to celebrate, so off we drove from Culver City to our favorite seafood spot in Newport Beach, the crab cooker. Sami and I haven't been eating very well since the diagnosis and today was the day when we decided to pig out with much gusto. Finally, we tasted what we were eating as opposed to the days when we ate just because we had to. Bambi had her own plate as opposed to the leftovers she usually was given. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed to walk on the beach before 4:30 pm so we skipped that plan.

Today, we were tearful with joy, knowing that our baby is healing well, that she is not in as much pain as she was, and that her puppy ways are back. Our fourteen year old beautiful black lab is on her way to recovery.

Bambi has many kind and lovely angels who have helped her, and continue to bestow love, attention, and practical help. From well wishes, prayers, and healing vibes sent her way, to financial help, and thoughtful inquiries, we have been blessed with family, friends, and even strangers in this journey. We have been blessed with wonderful vets who quickly and lovingly treated Bambi, vet techs who just adored and pampered her, and loving people around her who just showered her with love. We have been blessed with friends and family who dug really deep into their pocketbooks to help finance her treatment. With all the support that Bambi has been receiving, I can only say that my faith has been strengthened and continues to flourish.

Bambi, I can truly say that you are loved. Maybe because through the years, you have given so much love to everyone around you. Now, it is returned to you a thousand fold. Keep getting well and strong, my baby. My courageous and beautiful puppy, you are blessed!