November 27th 2008 10:46 pm
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Let me start by saying that my Mommy does apologize for not responding to your pawmails sooner. To make a long story short, her dearest (human) friend, passed away late summer, and it has taken our Mommy MONTHS to shake herself out of her mourning period. Mommy's best friend, my Uncle Kevin, passed peacefully....but it was devastating. It was too hard for her to log on to Catster, and read of sadness. She, as well as myself and my big sis, do apologize. And we want to thank all of our wonderful kitty friends for checking in on us.
As for my wonderful, tabby-self, I am still enjoying life. I may be a bit thinner, but, my chemo. still seems to be doing it's job. I'm eating as much as I can, but, still NOT gaining a significant amount of weight. I actually think I would, if I could just STOP throwing up hairballs! THOSE THINGS ARE EVIL! Due to my chemo., my fur is still falling out. Although I only go to MedVet once every 3 weeks, it's enough to make my fur loose. And, well, being the stud I am, I feel the need to bathe, CONSTANTLY! I mean, chicks dig clean dudes...am I right? Or am I right! Unfortunately, my constant bathing has resulted in hairballs, about the size of a fist!, at LEAST once a week. My Oncologist says that's normal...and that my Mommy needs to brush me more frequently. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! We'll see about that.
I hope all of my kitty friends had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I have been thinking about each and every one of you....I really do mean that. It's been too long....and Mommy promises to be a better correspondent in the future. She knows that she has quite a bit to be thankful for, and that is what her friend Kevin would want. Thankful for friends, family, and simply happy to be here.
Much love to all of you!!!!! Oh, and my big sis JoJo is as demanding as EVER! Not bad for an 18 year old chick!
xoxoxoxox,
Sheppy, JoJo, and Mommy (Kate)
July 8th 2008 12:14 pm
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Hello to all of my special kitty friends! Yes, it's been a while since I have updated my diary. I don't want to keep boring everyone with the same old entry every other week....because nothing has really changed. My chemo. is still working its magic, my radiographs are still free of masses and fluid, and I'm still chasing that crazy tail of mine! Oh, and I just gained 2 ounces....which is great. However, I do have a secret about my weight gain. I finally did it! I broke Mommy down! I turned my little orange nose up at my healthy food one too many times.....and she gave up. I am happy to say that I am officially eating the cat equivalent of Cheez-Whiz.....! I am a junk-food kitty! I am consuming repulsive quantities of Whiska's, Friskies, and 9 Lives, AND LOVING IT! Now, before you all gasp in horror, Mommy DID ask the vet about this. They said what Mommy knew they would say. They said that as long as I am eating something, and gaining, and happy, then that was just fine with them. So, there ya have it. Give me my faux Alaskan King Crab dinner, and I am a VERY happy camper. I did overhear Mommy telling a friend that she was going to try something called 'Tiki' kitty food, just to see what I'll do with it. I'm pretty sure that's what fellow Olde Furt Calvin eats, and if he likes it...well, I'm positive I will too!
As for everything else, it's all good. I did have my 12th birthday on the 4th of July (THANK YOU to all of my kitty friends for the rosies and special gifts. It made Mommy weepy!), and it was wonderful! I got soooooooo many toys that by the end of the day, I CRASHED! I attempted to chase my tail a little in the evening, but I hit my head on the coffee table and promptly decided that I'd had enough. So, off I went to bed with a full belly and my head buzzing....either from the coffee table incident, or from too many catnip toys. My Grandma & Grandpa came into town, too. Let's face it, I was just BUILT for attention, and received TONS! MOL!
Ok, dear friends. I'm sending all of my love out in trillions of purrs to each and every one of you....especially to my Olde Furts who are feeling a little bit Furty. You are ALL in my thoughts.
Much love and head-bonks,
Sheppy
May 20th 2008 5:42 pm
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Hello to all of my kitty friends! I am home from my 5th chemo. treatment, and nutty as ever! And, surprisingly, I smell like clean laundry. Hmmm. Mommy is perplexed. She figures that they must have hung me like a piece of veal in the laundry room at the vet, due to my rather rambunctious nature. What she doesn't know is that I was squeezed on, non-stop, by all of the pretty vet tech's! Wooooohoooooo! I tried pointing out that I even had a red lipstick stain on my head, but Mommy ignored it. (Actually, he really did have a kissie mark in red lipstick on his head! I laughed so hard, I began to tear up!)
As for my chemo., I had Vincristine again. My body is pretty much used to it, and the only side-effect that I experience is sleepiness. I'll make up for that tomorrow! The best news though, is that my lungs are still clear with no visible signs of masses. Oh, and I've gained 1/2 an oz. MOL! In fact, I'm in the process of gaining more....I just consumed an entire can of chicken! And, how does one work off that excess weight? One decides to place one's older sister into a head-lock, and not let go until one's Mommy breaks it up. HMPH!
I was only trying to give her a, um, hug.....promise!
Now, on a more serious note. I'm sure each and every one of you have read the news about the passing of a wonderful woman by the name of Laurel. We did not have the pleasure of knowing her. However, judging by the sad and heartfelt responses her passing provoked, we know that we would have loved her! Which is why this request is so important. Laurel's passing left 1 dog (Noelle), and 2 kitties (Aldo and Tess), without a Mommy, and in dire need of homes! PLEASE read Hazel Lucy's diary entries regarding this. The situation changes constantly. But, the need for funds in order to trap, and transport, the kitties, has not. As well as funds for possibly flying Noelle to a loving foster home. Hazel Lucy's Mommy has taken it upon herself to arrange a happy ending as much as she can...but she will need help. If any of our Catster friends can make even the smallest donation in order to help, we would appreciate it SO MUCH! Her information is as follows:
Donation via Paypal: Please email your donation to the following web address, www.paypal.com:
hazel_lucy@yahoo.com
Donation w/ a check: Please mail your donation to the following address:
Julie Muldawer
P.O. Box 224
Narberth, PA. 19072-0224
Julie and Hazel Lucy will be keeping track of all donations through an Excel spreadsheet, and will be giving frequent updates. We would like to personally thank each of them for putting so much time and effort into this good deed!!!! Laurel would be so very grateful!
Much love to all,
The Shepinator
May 7th 2008 8:55 am
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Hello kitty friends,
I want to start off this diary entry with purrs of comfort for our friend Isaac's staff. As all of you know, Diva Isaac has journeyed to the Bridge, in order to make it a more happening/well-dressed place. Our thoughts are with sweet Isaac's staff. Much love to you all.
Now for something that won't make my Mommy's eyes tear up....I had my
4th chemo. treatment yesterday. This one was especially hard on Mommy, due to my ill-behavior prior to being shoved in my plastic prison! The bottom line, I DID NOT WANT TO GO! I hid under Mommy's bed, and in her suitcase. This upset her greatly. However, the ultrasound results I had later in the day, did not. The fluid has left my lungs once again, AND, I have gained 5 ounces! Mommy was floored. She honestly thought that the nice lady in the white coat would tell her that I had lost some weight....I have been eating such small amounts of my canned food. Well, what Mommy doesn't know is, I have been chowing down on prissy JoJo's food ALL DAY LONG! MOL! So, when Mommy gets home at night, and tries to feed me 50 different cans of food, I turn my nose up at all of them. My belly is already full by then!
My poor Mommy, when will she ever learn?
As for my chemo., I was given Mitoxantrone, instead of my usual Adriamycin. Apparently, if used too frequently, Adriamycin can cause
significant kidney problems, and the vet did not want to risk it. I handled the Mitoxantrone really well, so by the time I got home, I was ready to play. I
even worked on my sculpture (the dining room table leg), and rolled around on the floor with my catnip banana. By 9:00 I was wiped out, and fell asleep next to Mommy's head on my pillow. Oh, and Mommy wants me to let everyone know that I am still on 10mg of Prednisolone, and 2.5mg of Pepcid, all given trans-dermally....just in case there are other kitties out there that are experiencing the same thing.
So, I guess that's about it for now. Not too exciting around the McCormick household....this week!
Much love to all of you, and thank you so much for your purrs!
The Shep
April 30th 2008 6:28 am
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Hello kitty friends! Well, I had another appointment @ the vet yesterday. Mean old Mommy dropped me off at 8:00 AM, and had the NERVE to
wait until 5:30 PM to come and pick me up! She tried tried to explain to me that the nice lady in the white coat had to wait for the blood test results to come back before giving me my Vincristine, but I didn't have the patience to sit and listen. I guess the test results were ok, because they gave me the injection at 4:30. Mommy is such a worrier though, and she makes them watch me for an hour after every injection....in case I run a fever or get
sick. I've tried telling her that I feel fine after every one of them, but she puts her foot down. Case closed! She even had them clean my little ears out!
I REALLY don't like that, but they do get icky after getting so many transdermal meds rubbed in them. My next visit will be at MedVet in 2 weeks, which will give me a nice little rest. My appetite has been so-so. I generally feel a little lethargic the night of the injection, and the following day...and not very hungry. But, by Thursday, I'm good to go. I'm just a little picky about what I eat. Right now I'm diggin' the Purina Pro Plan chicken and beef, and the sardines and tuna. Mommy makes the most HORRIFIC face when she opens the sardines and tuna can! That's probably why I like it so much...it totally grosses her out!!!!! MOL! It even has little bones in it that Mommy has to mush up....I LOVE IT! Poor Mommy, she does love me so!
So, that's about it for now. No other exciting things going on in the McCormick household. Prissy JoJo is as demanding as ever! Mommy spoils her rotten. Do you know she actually brought JoJo's food bowl upstairs so Miss Priss doesn't have to walk down a flight of stairs? Mommy mentioned something about JoJo's arthritis, but I'm not buying it. Every time Mommy fills that bowl up, JoJo sticks her tongue out at me!
Much love and many healing purrs to all of my sick kitty friends. We still have our motors going for all of you, especially for Simon and Isaac! You two are OUR miracle inspirations!
Purrs and head-bonks,
Sheppy
April 21st 2008 11:40 am
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Hello kitty friends!
Well, I'll just get right down to it. Mommy took me to MedVet for my recheck. Apparently, the chemo. treatment that I received last week (Vincristine + L-spar) has WORKED!!!!! The changes aren't major, but, the fluid in my lungs has gone down enough to where I am comfortable again. I've even been sleeping on my side next to Mommy again. Oh, and I attacked JoJo yesterday....so I MUST be feeling better!
As for my next round of chemo., Mommy has decided to go ahead with it, since the results from last week show that I have improved. My next treatment is today (Cytoxan), and then I will be getting Vincristine next Monday. We are keeping our fingers and our paws crossed that it will chase that cancer right out of me! And, hopefully, SOON! Mommy actually had the nerve to inform me that I was worth more than her car, and that I might want to start looking for a job....or get used to the idea of us all living in a box under a bridge! How rude. Although, I have been tinkering with the idea of delivering menus and/or newspapers, just to make Mommy stop whining. Getting better sure is costly!
Before I go, I just wanted to thank each and every one of you for all of your
purrs of healing and support. We are POSITIVE that your good thoughts brought about this turn of events, and it makes Mommy teary to think of all of our wonderful friends.
Special thanks to Abby, Simon, Isaac, Ashley, Hazel Lucy, Buddie, Biscuit, Rusty, Tyler, Anne, Scootie Scoot, Morgan, Arnold P., Rufus, Sissy, Finney, Smoochie Girl, Smudge, Moozer, Little Bit, Shadow, Belle, Biscotti, Elsita, and last, but not least!!!, Miss Wuss. Wooooohooooooo! This Olde Furt needs a nap!
Much love and many, many, many purrs of thanks to you all,
The Shep
April 17th 2008 8:31 am
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Hello kitty friends! I hope all of my pals are having a nice Spring....especially
my Olde Furt pals. The nicer weather is so much easier on the joints!
I would like to take a moment and send healing purrs to Simon, Ashley, Isaac, Anne, Tyler, Toulouse....there are so many, and I know I'm forgetting some, so I do apologize. I would also like to thank my dear guardian angel, Abby. Thank you for always watching over me!!!!!!
Ok, here goes. I began coughing slightly about 2 weeks ago. Just a couple of coughs at a time, and very quietly. I was quiet on purpose....I just KNEW if Mommy heard me, she would take me to see the lady in the white coat! Unfortunately, she did hear me. On Monday, Mommy scooped me up, with my blanket still attached to my claws!!!!, and shoved me in that horrible plastic prison. I was with the lady in the white coat for 12 hours that day. They gave me 3 radiographs! All 3 results were the same. I am getting that icky pleural fluid in my lungs again. In other words, I am officially out of remission. The one piece of good news is that the mass was not visible on the radiographs, so it's apparently not large enough to be seen like it was last year. However, the fluid is building up again, which means that the mass is growing. Also, one of my lymph nodes is enlarged. They wanted to aspirate it, but Mommy said no. She said that she was not going to put me through something like that if the results were going to come back inconclusive. They could not promise that the results were going to be accurate, so she put her foot down! Good Mommy!!!!
Regarding my new chemo. protocol, well, there isn't one. They told Mommy that it would just be trial and error from this point on. Mommy was MOST unhappy. She does not want me to be some experiment. But, she did agree to let them go ahead and give me one chemo. dose, just to see if the fluid goes away again. If it does by Monday the 21st, she will continue. If it does not, she said that she will have to make a very hard decision. The hardest decision she has ever made. She won't tell me what it is, and I'm glad that I don't know. For now, Mommy sees that I am still playing, chasing my tail, and happy. And that makes Mommy VERY happy. So, I guess we will just have to wait until Monday. Until then, I will continue to enjoy my sunshine, tormenting JoJo, helping Mommy make the bed, eating tuna, and sleeping on top of Mommy's head at night. That's a pretty good kitty life!
Much love to all of my kitty friends, and thank you SO MUCH for all of your well-wishes. Mommy plans on responding to each and every one of them!
Love,
Sheppy
February 28th 2008 5:55 pm
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Hello to all of my dear kitty friends! It's been soooooo long since I have updated, and I do apologize. However, Mommy works in retail, and the Christmas season was INSANE! Do you know, she ACTUALLY had the nerve to work (gasp) late????? JoJo and I were MOST unhappy. But, our visiting grandparents more than made up for that. In fact, JoJo and I even had our own Christmas stockings, filled with goodies! Grandparents ROCK!!!!!!
As for my health, I was given the title of, 'clinical remission' by mid-December. Just in time for Christmas. I even celebrated it by discovering
that I actually have something called a T-A-I-L. Let me tell you....I was
shocked! I have apparently been carrying this thing around for 11 years. Who knew!!!???? Not only is it annoying, but, it keeps coming back for more!
I noticed it for the first time on the morning of December 25. After everyone opened their presents, I decided to take a break on Mommy's sofa. So much wrapping paper/bows to play with, my little head was spinning! I jumped up on my pink (yes, I am comfortable with my feminine side) blanket, and was getting ready to sleep. However, I kept noticing something out of the corner of my eye. It was there, then gone...there again, then gone. What the....!!!!
I investigated, and soon came to the conclusion that it was ATTACHED TO MY BEHIND!!!!!!!!!!! Why did no one inform me of this? It just doesn't seem fair to go around with this THING hanging off of my back-side...and NOT have anyone point it out! What is WRONG with people?????? I immediately began to devise a plan. If I could somehow pull this foul growth off, it would bother me no longer. Unfortunately, I have yet to accomplish my goal....and it's been 2 months. I think I have made peace with the fact that this thing will be with me forever. But, that does not stop me from trying EVERY SINGLE MORNING!!!! Mommy especially likes it when I try to pull it off at 4:30 AM...and 'accidentally' jump/turn on top of her. In fact, she LOVES it! Plus, it wakes her up just in time for my breakfast. See, some things work out perfectly!
One last, quick, note. Mommy took me in for my monthly check-up today. My weight has been stable at 12 lbs./2 oz. for 2 months, which is good. My ultrasound was free of masses, which is even better. However, they found a small amount of pleural fluid, (fluid in my lungs) again. The last time this happened was approx. 1 1/2 months ago. I went in for a check-up 2 weeks after that, and my body had absorbed the fluid. So, although it is cause for concern, they are hoping my body will absorb the fluid again. It is a very small amount, so, I am still only going there on a monthly basis...unless I start coughing again. Which is probably not going to happen for a while. At least, that is what we are hoping for. I am a very strong little boy...and I REFUSE to give in. Mommy, the Vets, the Vet Tech.'s, etc., all say that I have a spark. I plan on staying around for a LONG time! Plus, it may take YEARS to catch that T-A-I-L of mine! MOL!
Much love to all of my friends. Thank you, sweet Abby, for watching over me! On a sad note, JoJo and I were so heartbroken by the passing of Rufus and Teddy. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families. But, it does our hearts good knowing that they are looking down on all of their friends and family, and wishing nothing but the best. Head-bonks and purrs to you both.
Love, love, love, and purrs,
Sheppy
December 3rd 2007 6:48 am
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Hello to all of my kitty friends! First off, let me apologize for my Mommy.
She has the misfortune of working in retail, and the holiday season is HORRIBLE! Mol! She's been working late hours, and even on weekends. Hmpf! In other words, she has been too busy to update my diary, let alone give US the proper attention that my sister and I SOOOOO DESERVE!
Well, it's finally happened. My last official chemo. treatment will take place
on December 12, at MedVet. At that point, they will consider me to be in clinical remission, and I will no longer get chemo. I will, however, be on Pepcid and Prednisolone for the rest of my life. Heck, I'll take it if it means no more vet visits! I will have to go in once a month, though, for a physical examination. Hopefully, Mommy won't have to drop me off for that. Although I have a sneaking suspicion that she will, due to blood tests, etc.
Although Mommy is more than thrilled with the idea of no more chemo., it worries her horribly. She's terrified that once it stops, my masses will come back. I guess we will have to learn to take it one day at a time.
As for how I am feeling, I am back to my old self. In fact, Mommy yelled at me this morning because I had JoJo in a choke-hold.....for no apparent reason. I just felt like it. I can be such a little stinker! My appetite is normal, and my weight has stayed at 12.6 pounds for about a month. My white blood cell count was a little low 2 weeks ago, but it didn't affect me. I didn't even run a fever. As for my bathroom habits, I am happy to say that they are completely normal. Since Mommy changed our kitty litter to The World's Best kitty litter, I have not had diarrhea AT ALL, and I only throw up about once every 3 weeks or so. I try and aim for Mommy's bed...especially her pillow. I can tell that she REALLY loves it when I throw up on it!
On a horribly heartbreaking note, our thoughts, prayers, and love go out to the families of Wally, Buddie, and McKenna. We were sick with grief when we heard the news. We only wish that we could have been there for you in your time of need. Please know that we are thinking of you each and every day, and love you so very, very, much.
Much love, and many purrs, to all,
Sheppy, JoJo, and Mommy
October 17th 2007 7:06 pm
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Let me begin this entry with endless appreciation. I honestly cannot express how much this last week has meant to me, not to mention my Mommy. I was literally stunned when I found out that I was COTW. What made it even more special, was hearing it from my beautiful guardian angel, Abby. Usually, when Mommy makes room for me on the computer, I go directly to the 'In Need Of Purring' forum, by the beautiful Hazel Lucy. Which is exactly what I did. After reading the updates, I checked my pawmail. Guess what I saw? A pawmail, from Abby, congratulating me on being COTW! I was floored! Being the nosey tabby that I am, I immediately went to the catster home page. WOW! I saw my picture. Mommy burst into tears! Ugh...I wish she would stop doing that! I cannot thank HQ enough, and I am humbled by the wonderful pawmails, rosie's, and stars, that I have received. Thank you, to each and every one of you, for making this week so special for me.
I do have another bit of fun news for you. I received my 12th chemo. treatment today. It was my big/bad one that I get every 8 weeks. I've mentioned it before, and it's called Adriamycin. I somehow knew that I would be going to the S-P-A today, so I made sure to hide under Mommy's bed for a good 2 hours. You know how people say that cats can 'feel' things? Guess what? Those people are RIGHT ON! I could tell by the way Mommy was all gooey and lovey...well, at least more so than usual. MOL! So, I promptly made my way under her bed, and intended on staying there until 2008. Unfortunately for me, Mommy kept shoving a box under the bed to force me out. If that wasn't the RUDEST thing! I eventually took off, ran downstairs, and hid. Well, it obviously didn't take Mommy long to find me. I figure, as most cats do, that if I can't see her, she can't see me. Wow, I was WAY wrong. I decided to hide between the patio door, and the curtains. However, my tail did not agree. Apparently, that was what tipped her off. Damn my genetics for not making me a Manx!
I spent most of the day at the S-P-A, (Unfortunately, he cannot go to his regular vet for this treatment. He goes to MedVet Hospital for this specific one), but the results were wonderful. Not only am I almost 13 lbs., but, there are NO signs of my masses, no fluid in my lungs, my white blood cell count is excellent, no enlargement of my thyroid, my heart murmer is quiet...and my kitty poops are back to normal! Wooooohooooooo! However, the tech's, and the mean lady in the white coat, informed Mommy that I spent the day hiding in my litter box. I guess they were rather shocked by that. The tech kept saying, "But, he was sleeping IN his LITTER BOX....". Um, ok. I'm a cat. There was nothing in it except litter, it was enclosed, it was at the back of my prison, and it was soft. And?????? Those people are NUTS!
Now, I am back home. I have consumed almost 2 cans of Fancy Beast, heh-heh, and my belly is full. Mommy can tell that I am getting really sleepy from my long day, and starting to feel a little bit icky, which is not unusual after the chemo I just had. So, she is making me sign off, and crawl into bed.
But, before I go, one last note. Our hearts go out to Amelia's family, KiKi's family, and Louie's family. We love all of you, so very much. You are all in our thoughts. Purrs and blessings for each and every one of you. And, as a special favor to my big sis JoJo and myself, if all of our kitty friends could send well-wishes to our kitty friends listed on the 'In Need Of Purring' list, we would be forever grateful. We hold a special place in our hearts for precious Teddy. Please wish him well.
Much love and many, many, MANY, purrs,
Sheppy
October 4th 2007 6:14 pm
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Hello to all of my adored kitty friends! Just a quick update on my latest trip to see the nice lady in the white coat....and her evil minions. MOL!
I went in for my 11th chemotherapy injection (Vincristine) yesterday. I was none too happy to be placed in my plastic prison for the car ride there...however, I was actually very good about it. I didn't take the chair cushion with me, as I normally try to do. (He tends to dig his claws so deeply into the cushion on his chair that, sometimes, when I lift him off to place him in his cage, the ENTIRE cushion comes with him!) Mommy was VERY happy about that, and told me that I was a very good boy. Hmmmm...THAT made it all better....not! We arrived at the Cats Only Clinic, and my pill-girlfriend greeted us. Since I no longer take pills, only transdermal meds, she has not seen me in 2 weeks. She was rather impressed by the 'heft' of my carrier. As well she should be...I've gained another 3 ounces! Plus, my fur is really starting to come in well, now that I am on chemo. once every 2 weeks. I was looking especially handsome! She promised Mommy that she would squeeze on me and give me kisses while I was there, and that made Mommy feel a little bit better. Mommy ALWAYS boo-hoo's whenever she drops me off. It's so embarrassing.
As I mentioned, everything was going really well. UNTIL one of the tech's got a hold of me! Do you know all of the horrible things that she did to me? Well, I'm going to tell ya! Not only did she take my blood (CBC work), she also weighed me, gave me my chemo. injection, did an X-Ray, AND, get this, put a thermometer up my (gasp) rear-end! OH! I was just furious! Honestly, I don't think I have ever been so mad in all of my 11 years! Now, keep in mind, my Mommy has never EVER heard me hiss or growl. Seriously, NEVER. So, when Mommy came in, the vet's minion warned her. I know this because I was in my plastic prison just outside of the examining room. She actually told Mommy that I growled, I hissed, and was currently pouting. Mommy was shocked! I could hear her saying, "Sheppy? Shep? My Shep?" She was stunned, and refused to believe it. The minion opened the door and brought me in. Well, I saw my Mommy and immediately purred, and purred, and purred. I rubbed my cheeks against the plastic prison door, drooled on her fingers, chirped at her. I was SO happy to see my Mommy! I could tell that she was having a hard time believing the tech....until I actually made eye contact with the tech. At that point, Mommy became horrified. I growled, I hissed, I growled even more! Don't get me wrong, I know the tech. was only doing her job. But, let me know how you feel when, and if, you ever get a thermometer stuck up your rear-end! MOL!
As for now, I am home. And VERY happy to be here! The nice lady in the white coat has given up on me, foodwise. Mommy has spent $$$ on prescription food, home-made food, anything she can, just to get me off of regular kitty food. Guess what? Not working. I literally took a bite of Royal Canin Venison, and proceeded to spit it all over the kitchen counter. Never even swallowed it! I did the same thing with the rabbit, too. They have tried everything. Literally! I keep trying to tell them that I am a 'Hamburger Helper' kind of kitty, and I LOVE Fancy Feast now, so, don't even bother trying to change me. And you know what? She's fine with that. And that, my wonderful kitty friends, is why I love my Mommy.
Many purrs and much love to all of my kitty friends that are feeling icky. Precious Simon, please keep eating and doing well. Sweet Anne, you are always in our thoughts. Our Ashley, we think good thoughts about you, and purr constantly for you. Lots of love to all that have sent us well-wishes, even in their time of sickness. Our hearts go out to each and every one of you and your families. Thank you Abby, Hazel Lucy, Jennifer, Mittens...too many to even name, for thinking of us. Please know that we purr daily for the happiness that all of our kitty friends so deserve!
Love,
Sheppy
September 29th 2007 2:50 pm
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Hello to all of my kitty friends. I'm so sorry that I have not been able to respond to my pawmails recently. Mommy just received a letter in response to her complaint against IDEXX Laboratories, and is very upset. 3 months ago, she lodged a formal complaint with the Ohio Veterinary Medical Licensing Board, regarding Dr. Sameh Yuseff, a Pathologist at IDEXX Laboratories. He was the idiot that misdiagnosed me....twice! Due to his misdiagnosis, I was subjected to 4 needless surgeries, and excrutiating pain. Not to mention the fact that Mommy is now $15,000.00 in debt. All due to his ignorance. THAT is why, my dear kitty friends, you must ALWAYS ask for a second opinion!
In regards to the letter that Mommy received from the OVMLB, she is furious. Not only did they NOT address the complaint that she originally stated, but, included the comment, "...the board has no jurisdiction in regards to office management, and client/veterinarian personal relationships...". HUH????? Mommy is most confused. Her jaw literally dropped. Where the heck did THAT statement come from? So, Mommy emailed the Executive Director of the OVMLB, Theresa Stir, and pretty much received the same response...again. No answers are being given, no faults are being found. Here is Mommy's question....if a Pathologist gives a misdiagnosis, should he/she not be found responsible? Of course they should! Especially if it happens TWICE! Apparently, Dr. (and I use the term 'Dr.' VERY loosly) Yuseff, brought his lawyer with him, and all was worked out. To his benefit. How fitting. Mommy has visions of money exchanging hands, men pulling out cigars, and shaking 'on it'.
What is next? Well, Mommy is going to spend this weekend contacting the head of the National Veterinary Medical Licensing Board...and most likely not get anywhere. They all tend to cover-up for one another....much like a Fraternity House.
So, on this final note. If you live in Ohio, and your veterinarian suggests you go to a 'specialty' vet, or hospital, ask who it is. If they mention MedVet, do NOT go. They deal only with IDEXX Laboratories. You certainly do not want those people in charge of a biopsy, needle aspiration, or a simple blood test. Or, your precious baby's life.
Much love,
Sheppy
September 26th 2007 6:37 pm
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Hello to all of my wonderful kitty friends! I am long overdue with my diary entry. However, I have had to wait (rather impatiently) for Mommy to give me time on the computer. So, I am a bit late in giving an update on my chemotherapy progress. But, OH! Do I have something that you will get a chuckle out of!
Mommy took me to see the nice lady in the white coat, Dr. Stern, last Wednesday. It was my 10th chemo. treatment, and was done at the Cats Only Veterinary Clinic. So, no big hospital for moi. Which, by the way, is wonderful for my nerves. I had my last chemo. treatment there, as well, but had that unfortunate incident with that psychopath kitten, Lenny. I mean, he's cute and all. But, goodness! His manners! I STILL refuse to believe I was EVER a kitten. I guess that is neither here nor there. Anyway, I had my injection of Cytoxin. All of the pretty girls that work there, including my pill-girlfriend, Andrea, all kissed on me, hugged on me....and, (thankfully for Mommy) trimmed my nails. Plus, they watched me to make sure that I was taking the injection ok. Sometimes kitties get fevers, vomit, etc., after an injection. But, I was ok. After a few hours, Dr. Stern called Mommy with an idea. I have had a horribly upset tummy for months and months. I have constant diarrhea, and sometimes the process of going to the bathroom in my litter box makes me vomit. That REALLY upsets Mommy. I don't like it much, either. Well, Dr. Stern thought that maybe it was the food that I was eating. Mommy has been asking the hospital that she was taking me to (MedVet), what they would recommend...but they told her not to worry about it. They said that the food I was on was just fine. In other words, they didn't really care. Dr. Stern thinks I might have a food allergy. Kitties are like people, we can become allergic to something at any time. So, she informed Mommy that the best thing for me would be.........prepare yourselves!!!.....to MAKE MY FOOD! Hahahahahahahahahaha, cough, sputter, choke, cough, hahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ok. I have managed to contain myself. Poor Mommy. She spent all night Friday, and all day Saturday, preparing chicken, pork, and beef. She even bought hundreds of zip-lock baggies, measured out 8 oz.'s, labeled them, and put them in the freezer... sputter, cough (sorry, still chuckling). The first batch she gave me was the beef. I saw her sneak a bite, so obviously I wanted some, too. I ate a whole plate full. Then she made the pork. Hmmm, not so interested in that. By the time she gave me some chicken, well, I was over it. I was polite, had a few bites, then jumped off of my counter, and stood under the dining room table. She, mistakenly, thought I was full. I was not. But, please don't judge Mommy too harshly. Dr. Stern thinks I should have a protein diet for the next 2 weeks, just to see if my tummy gets better. At that point, we can rule out some allergies, and then add some supplements. The big question is, will I make it to that point? Mommy knows that I need to eat. If I refuse to eat what she has made, then what? She can't very well leave it out until I get so hungry that I scarf it down! I still need to gain some weight, so, that is not even a possibility. The good news is, Dr. Stern has some food for me that has no wheat, no corn, and very minimal ingredients. Mommy is going to pick it up tomorrow. I will keep all of my kitty friends updated!
I have just a small bit of other good news. I have actually gained a pound since I last posted! I am now back to my almost-fighting-weight! I am 12 pounds, 8 oz.'s! Mommy is determined that I reach 13 pounds again. But, she is mostly happy that I am breathing well, rolling in sunshine, sleeping soundly on my side, and running. As long as I am happy and comfortable, my Mommy is walking on sunshine.
Much love to all of my friends, and especially my Olde Furt friends. You have given us so much support, that, I really don't think my Mommy could have done all of this without you. We, as a family, mourn the loss of our kitty friends, every single day. We think about those that are sick, those that are well, and those that have passed on, constantly. We wish nothing but the best for all of you, and cry when you are feeling badly. We are sad when you leave us, but rejoice when you are no longer in pain...and are looking down, with love, upon all of us. Each and every one of you is so loved, and you are all in our thoughts.
Much love and many, many, MANY, purrs,
The Shep
September 15th 2007 6:25 pm
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Something short and quick. A single moment that Mommy captured, and will remember forever.
Apparently, Mommy was sleeping at 2:00 AM. Figures. Well, I tried and tried to wake her up. She patted me on the head, kissed my bunny-fur-sides, and then fell back asleep. I finally gave up, and fell asleep next to her...cranky JoJo was already under the covers, and snoozing VERY loudly!
Around 3:00 AM, I heard Mommy laughing. I guess the position in which I was sleeping, was enough to make her laugh out loud. I honestly thought nothing of it. But, it was obviously enough to make Mommy happy. I was told, although this is only a rumor!!!!!!!!!!!!, that I had fallen asleep with my back legs crossed, propped up on Mommy's arm (like an ottoman), butt next to her head, torso squashed next to her, flat on my back, with my paws outstretched, like I was waiting to catch something. Mean Mommy laughed so hard that I stretched, stuck my tongue out,...and, well, fell back asleep. I might have chirped once or twice. Goodness, it really is so very hard being so darn cute! Maybe I need to get those 'eye-shades'....like Audrey Hepburn wore in Breakfast At Tiffany's! I'll have to ask Elsa about those...I'll bet she has them!
Love and well-wishes, and purring for our friend Simon!!!!
Nose-kisses,
Sheppy
September 8th 2007 10:26 am
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Hello to all of my kitty friends!
I just finished with my ninth chemo. treatment (Vincristine), and everything went pretty well. Mommy has changed vets for the bulk of my chemo., with the exception of the BIG one that I will be getting once a month. The big one (Adriamycin) needs to be done at the hospital, due to possible cardiac arrest. But, as for the others, Mommy has switched me to the Cats Only Clinic. I've been to them before for small things, like blood tests, etc., and I really like it there. No loud barking! However, after my last chemo. treatment, they placed me in a cage next to a kitten! I guess I must be getting more (clearing of throat) mature, because that ball of fluff drove me nuts! Everytime I turned around, he had his little furry paw in my cage, trying to swat at me. At first it was cute....well, for the first 10 times. By the 11th time, I walked to the opposite end of my cage, faced the wall, and pouted. The techs even called my Mommy to tell her! Doesn't that kitten know it's 'Shep time' when I'm there? I mean, all of the girls usually take me out of my cage, kiss on me, squeeze on me, etc., and that's the way it SHOULD be! But, with that kitten there, I was only kissed on a FEW times. I was NOT happy. Mommy tried to explain to me that I was a kitten once, and was occasionally a pain in the rear, but only occasionally. Oh, please! I don't buy that. Not at all! Lies! All lies, I tell ya!
I did have some blood tests done, as well. The results should be in at the beginning of next week. The nice lady in the white coat thinks I might have a vitamin deficiency, which could be causing my diarrhea. Although, I have been getting better with the dry kitten chow that Mommy keeps out for me all day. Yummy!
As for my meds, the lady in the white coat has me on creams now, instead of pills. I am MUCH happier about this! They took me off of Prednisone tablets, and now I am on Prednisolone cream. The vet said that the Prednisone was too hard for my little body to metabolize, and that the Prednisolone will just be easier on my system. I'm also on Pepcid cream, too. The entire med-taking situation has just become a thousand times easier! Now, Mommy just puts on some gloves, gets a pea-size drop of the creams, and rubs them in my ears. I love having my ears scratched, so I really have no idea when she is giving me my meds!
Ok, my friends. I am off to eat some tuna, and then to dream of tackling that kitten!
Much love, and many purrs, to our sick kitty friends.
Love, Sheppy
August 23rd 2007 8:04 am
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Wooooohooooo! It's official, the mean lady in the white coat says that my lymphoma is being very responsive to the chemo. treatments....so I get a 2 week break! If I'm still responsive after another round of 4 treatments, I then get a 3 week break, etc. Mommy let me celebrate by giving me some yummy tuna last night and this morning. My bare belly is soooooo full! The vet says that tuna in small doses is just fine for me. At this point, she said, I can pretty much have anything that I want if it makes me gain weight! I'm LOVING that!
I had my eighth treatment yesterday, adriamycin, which is the big, bad one.
If it is given too quickly, it can cause cardiac arrest. Needless to say, Mommy was on the verge of tears all day yesterday. She even stayed home from work because she was such a wreck. I tried telling her that everything would be fine...but she wouldn't listen to me. Typical female! (Kidding!) I was allowed to go home last night at 8:00, and proceeded to eat everything in sight. I was SO HUNGRY! And then, I snoozed next to Mommy all night long. My big sis, JoJo, let me snuggle with her a little bit, but JUST a little bit. She doesn't like it when I smell like the vet.
As for today, I'm still a little sore from the IV. So, I'm going to nap, eat, nap, eat, etc. But, once the weekend gets here, watch out!
JoJo and I hope that all of our kitty friends are doing well! We think about each and every one of you! Also, I know I say this in every diary posting, another big thank you to my guardian angel, Abby. I know she was looking down on me during my treatment yesterday, and my Mommy truly appreciates it!
Love,
Sheppy
August 17th 2007 11:13 am
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Hello to all of my kitty friends!
Well, Mommy dropped me off at MedVet for my check-up today. Something told me that this was NOT going to be a fun day.....so I hid under Mommy's bed for an hour or so this morning. Mommy was most distraught. I could just sense that I was going to be shoved into my plastic prison, so I made Mommy work for it! She finally scooped me up, and took me to see that mean lady in the white coat. They poked, as always, and prodded, as always. They checked my stool sample for parasites, and couldn't find any. So, Mommy is back to square one regarding my diarrhea. However, they did say that I have gained 1/2 of a pound! Mommy was sooooooooooooooo happy about that!
As for my medication, they are giving me an injection today that will take the place of my usual Prednisone pill for the next 5 days...which is when my next treatment will be. Andrea will be going out of town for a week, and won't be able to pill me. Mommy was NOT looking forward to giving me my meds, so, having the injection will make everyone happy. Well, everyone except me! Mommy's also hoping that eliminating the Pred. might make my tummy feel better. MedVet wanted to do another Ultrasound, but Mommy said to wait until next week. They tend to do the most expensive proceedures first, which really makes Mommy angry. Hence, the 4 useless surgeries, and over $15,000.00 in bills!
I guess that's it for now. I'll post more next week, after my eighth chemo. treatment. JoJo and I hope that all of our kitty friends are doing well. Special purrs and head-bonks to Teddy, Cabbie, Rufus, Scarlett, and Fluffy. JoJo and I purr for you and your families daily!!!! Also, many thanks to my beautiful guardian angel, Abby. She's the best guardian angel around, and has helped us tremendously!!!!
Love and purrs,
Sheppy
August 1st 2007 12:57 pm
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Hi kitty friends!
Well, I'm back from my sixth round of chemo. This one wasn't so bad. I've had it before, and I didn't have any side-effects then. So, hopefully I won't have any now. It's called Cytoxan, and that mean lady in the white coat gave it to me through an IV in my little, hairless, back leg! I'll NEVER grow that leg hair back, now! They keep shaving the same spot. It looks like I'm wearing only one boot! How embarrassing!
As for my tummy, it's a bit distended due to the diarrhea that I've been having for quite some time now. I'm still at 11 lbs, and the lady in the white coat said it was 'cause for concern'. Well, duh! Mommy's been concerned about it for 2 months now! So, to get rid of my diarrhea, they have me on yet another medication. This one is called Tylan, and only comes in powder form. Poor Mommy looks like a mad scientist in the morning, measuring out 1/8 of a teaspoon of Tylan, cutting up tablets of Prednisone, and Pepcid, and pouring everything into a gel cap! It's actually sort of comical.
Anyway, I took Tylan for the first time this morning, and I seem to be tolerating it. Mommy came home to feed me lunch and I hadn't thrown up, or had diarrhea, so that was a good thing. I was REALLY happy to see her, too! I chirped at her the entire time I was running down the stairs to greet her. Mommy called me 'crazy tabby legs' again, and hand fed me some chicken Sheeba. Pssssst! I have a secret for all of you kittys out there. Even if you're really hungry, pretend that you're not interested. Your Mommy might just hand feed you like mine does. Sometimes I just pretend because I'm too lazy to bend my head down!
Ok. Now for my (hopefully) good news. I'm still mass free, and my lungs are still free of fluid. Mommy's happy about this because, after my treatment next week, I will only be getting chemo. every 2 weeks! Then, every 3 weeks, etc. I'm possibly in remission, according to the vet, but I will still have a maintenance program that will need to be followed. All of this depends upon my check-up next week. So, keep your paws crossed for me!
JoJo and I hope all of our kitty friends are doing well, and are happy and healthy! Thank you to everyone for your support and well wishes. And a big thank you to my guardian angel kitty, Abby!
Love, love, purrs, love,
Sheppy
July 29th 2007 3:45 pm
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Well, I seem to feel just fine. I play, I purr, I roll around...I even take flying leaps over my older sister, much to her dismay. But, I don't seem to have much of an appetite. Mommy has been hand feeding me pretty much all day, but then I get bored with eating, and go find somewhere to sleep. Mommy is very upset, because I went to see the mean lady in the white coat yesterday. It was only to have me pilled (Andrea, the vet tech that pills Shep, is out of town), so I didn't think it was that big of a deal. Unfortunately, they decided to weigh me. I've lost 3 more ounces. I'm approx. 11 pounds now. That's down 8 ounces from 4 weeks ago. I can't help that my tummy has been so upset that I throw up every time I have diarrhea! I know Mommy has spoken to those horrible people at the hospital about it. I guess one of them had the nerve to tell her that she needs to feed me more. Mommy feeds me every two hours! She leaves work twice a day to make sure that I eat something! What those idiots apparently do NOT understand, is that my tummy hurts, and I am nauseated. She has explained this to them for 3 months now. They overlooked it for a while, but, now that I have lost a significant amount of weight, they are concerned. Mommy gives me Remeron, to stimulate my appetite, but that doesn't help me to keep everything down. I've been throwing up at least once a day, and seem to have diarrhea constantly. I don't know how many times she has told the hospital that....I think she is getting blue in the face!
Hope everyone had a nice weekend. We are all saddened by the loss of Miss Dback. Our thoughts and prayers are with her and her family.
Love,
Shep
July 24th 2007 6:59 pm
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Hello to all of my kitty friends! Just wanted to give you a brief update on how I've been doing.
I just came home from my 5th chemo treatment. I didn't have one last week, thank goodness!!!!, because they let kitties take a rest after #4.
However, I had to go and see that lady in the white coat today for #5. Let me tell you, I was NOT at all happy to see her. But, being me, I purred. And purred, and purred! Mommy was very upset because I was shaking, but, I really just did it for show. After the vet tech. took me back to the depths of the hospital, I charmed EVERYONE. So much so, that when Mommy brought me home and kissed on me, she wailed that I smelled like I had spent the day in a brothel. I don't know what that is, but if it makes me smell like flowers, then I'm all for it!
So, now for the good news and just a tiny piece of bad. The good news is, I have NO MORE FLUID in my lungs! This is the first time since March that I have been able to breathe normally, without having my little lungs tapped. Just one month ago, I was having them tapped every 2-3 days. Now, since the chemo, I have not had them tapped at all. That makes Mommy so very happy. Although, JoJo doesn't seem too thrilled. I have more energy now, and LOVE to pounce on her at the most inappropriate times....like right out of the litter box.
The only tiny piece of bad news that I have is that I have lost 8 ounces. That mean lady in the white coat had me on an antibiotic (Zeniquin) that not only gave me diarrhea, but also made me throw up as soon as I had a bowel movement. That was icky. But, last week they took me off of it, and I have been fine ever since (Still on Prednisone twice daily, 1/4 Pepcid once daily). Mommy is hoping that I will gain a bit more before next Tuesday. If I have my way, I'll be eating every 2 hours!
Hope all of my kitty friends, and kitties that are in serious need of purring!!!!, are doing well. JoJo and I think of all of you daily. Special thank you to the beautiful Miss Hazel Lucy, for putting me on the prayer chain. I would not be here without all of the good thoughts and prayers that have been sent my way.
Much love to you all, oh, and MANY head-bonks,
Shep
July 11th 2007 8:01 am
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Guess what? I have gained 3.5 ounces! Mommy is SO HAPPY! I went in for my fourth chemo treatment yesterday. It was a big one, and made me feel a bit icky. The mean lady in the white coat gave me blood tests, looked at my lungs, and then stuck that yucky IV in my leg. I guess I have a little bit more pleural fluid than last week, but still not enough to have taken out. I was happy about that. She said that I am in partial remission, which means that I don't have to have another treatment for 2 weeks. That means 2 more weeks of FOOD! I'll be going to see her again next Tuesday, but just to have some blood work done. They want to make sure that my kidneys are functioning properly, because the chemo can mess them up. As for everything else, it's going well. My fur is finally starting to come in, except where they keep shaving my leg for the IV. Mommy calls it my 'peach fuzz'. I guess it's better than seeing that mean looking scar down my chest!
I'm still getting pilled every morning and night. I thought I had fooled Andrea (vet tech.) into thinking that I was gone. I was wrong. She and Mommy found me hiding in the bedroom. I guess I wasn't quick enough in hiding under the bed. I'll have to reformulate another plan! I'm on a new antibiotic now (Zeniquin), and I only have to take it once a day for 10 more days. I'm still on my Pred., and Pepcid, as well. Combined, they make me a little sleepy, but I still have an appetite!
Hope all of my kitty friends are doing well, and many purrs and head-bonks to you all!
Sheppy
July 6th 2007 8:00 am
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Thank you to all the kitties that wished me a happy birthday! I had a really good day. I was pretty sleepy, but managed to down quite a bit of chicken Wednesday night! My fever started to break Thursday morning, so I was up and ready to go at 5:00 AM. Of course, Mommy wasn't! But, being the good Mommy she is, she stumbled down the stairs and fed me and my big sis, JoJo. Note to self: If I'm really quiet in waking Mommy up, I just might be able to get to JoJo's food before she knows it's in her bowl.
I slept quite a bit yesterday afternoon, but did have time to open and close every single cabinet in the house. I made sure to be really loud about it, so Mommy would know that I was feeling better. I figure, the louder I am, the less sick Mommy will think I am. The less sick I am, the fewer pills I'll have to take! Uh oh, I take that back....I think Andrea (Vet Tech.) just knocked on the door! Guess I'll be taking my pills after all. I better go and hide!
Many purrs and head-bonks to my kitty friends and their families,
Love,
Sheppy
I was right. It was pill time. Now that that has been taken care of, let's get back to business. My whiskers are starting to fall out. It sort of took me by surprise. Mommy never told me that the chemo would do that to me! I just don't like that chemo, at all! It makes me feel yucky, upsets my tummy, and makes me sleepy. And now, on top of everything else, it's causing my whiskers to fall out! It's bad enough that my fur is taking FOREVER to grow back! (He was shaved for his 4th and final surgery, and chemo makes the grow-back REALLY slow). Now I can only lounge around in the sun for a few minutes because my belly gets too hot, but Mommy still kisses on it...so that makes it better.
Time for more tuna and then a nice long nap. Hope all the kitties are having a great day, and I'll meow at you later!
Love, Shep
July 4th 2007 7:28 am
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Well, Mommy took me to the hospital again yesterday for my third chemo treatment. The good news is that the fluid in my lungs seems to be going away. Even the stuff that was already in there! The bad news is, I feel really yucky. I was ok when we first got home. I even ate almost a whole can of yummy tuna! Then, at around 9:00 PM, I started feeling really sleepy. I didn't even bother Mommy or her boyfriend for some of the shrimp they were having for dinner. I just wanted to sleep.
So, I slept, and slept, and slept! I woke Mommy up around 3:00 AM, just to say hi, then I went back downstairs and slept some more. This morning Mommy tried to feed me, but nothing looked very appealing. I went back to sleep. Finally, around 8:00 AM, Mommy sat down on the floor and hand-fed me. I ate a small amount....I LOVE it when Mommy hand-feeds me! Then I ate more about a half an hour later. This time Mommy's boyfriend hand-fed
me...and I have decided that I LOVE it when he hand-feeds me, too! Maybe I can get them to do this all the time! If only I could keep JoJo from muscling in on my food.....
Ok, well that's it for today. Mommy had to go to work, so I'm stuck here with Mommy's boyfriend...who keeps checking on me every 5 minutes! It's driving me nuts! Hopefully I'll feel a bit better by tonight, because today is my birthday! YEAH! Mommy is going to make some chicken for me later on, so I better go rest up!
Much love and many head-bonks for all of my kitty friends,
Sheppy-The-Birthday-Boy
June 30th 2007 7:28 pm
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After the pill-giving fiasco Thursay night, I thought for sure that I would never have to take another pill again. Sure enough, Friday morning came....and no pill! I ate my food very carefully, expecting to come across one of those bitter round things. But, NO! It was great! Grandma and Grandpa paid tons of attention to me all day while Mommy was at work. Grandma even gave me tuna! Then I slept on my chair, in the sun, with my big sister, for hours. Mommy came home at 5:00, and for the first time in 3 weeks, she seemed very calm. Not like she usually is when it's time for my meds. Hmmm....something seemed a bit odd. Just a bit 'off'.
Mommy squeezed on me for a while, then gave me some of my chicken. Everything was just perfect! Until....there was a knock on the door. The first thing I thought was, "Oh, boy! A visitor! I LOVE visitors!". I ran to the door, and in came a lady that looked really familiar. I was sooooo excited because I just knew she would pay lots of attention to me. She cooed over me, gave me lots of squeezes, told me I was handsome. But, for some reason, I just could NOT remember how I knew her! I jumped up on the counter while Mommy chatted with the lady, and proceeded to purr and rub against her hand. And then, all of the sudden, something was shoved into my little mouth, and POOF! It was over. That's when it hit me. Mommy is paying this nice lady, Andrea, from the Cats Only Veterinary Clinic, to pill me!!!!!!!!! She comes every morning and every night, shoves all of my pills into a gel cap, and then shoots them down my throat in less than 2 seconds! She's Super Woman! I don't even feel the pills going down, she doesn't stress me out, she doesn't squash me down on the floor. I barely have time to protest. And, after it's all over, I get kisses and food! I guess Mommy is smarter than I give her credit for.
Oh, and one last note. Don't think I didn't notice JoJo hanging around to watch. After it was all over, I swear I heard her snicker!
Love and purrs to all of my friends, and special kitty prayers for those that need them!
Love, Shep
June 28th 2007 7:06 am
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Don't get me wrong. I LOVE my Grandpa and Grandma! But I also overheard Mommy talking to Grandpa, saying that I was being difficult to give meds to. I guess Grandpa said that he would take care of it, and help hold me down. How RUDE! Grandpa apparently has lots of exprience giving meds to my cousin, Bob. Well, Bob doesn't have any claws! And I do!
As for my trip to see that mean lady in the white coat, it went OK. They gave me my chemo, and all it did was make me a little sleepy yesterday. Other than that, no side-effects at all. Mommy was happy about that. In fact, yesterday she came home at noon to check on me, and I was SOOOO HAPPY to see her, that I ran like a bat out of hell just to greet her! Mommy calls that my 'crazy-tabby-legs' run. She gave me a little bit to eat, made me take that yucky Pepcid, and then went back to work.
My next round of chemo will be next Tuesday, and we are all hoping it will be uneventful. I'm so tired of going to that hospital. But, at least I have Mommy and my Grandparents to dote on me all weekend, and JoJo to snuggle with!
I hope all of my friends are doing well, and a special snuggle for Anne (Needing Prayers). Anne, you are in our thoughts.
Love and lots of purrs,
Sheppy
June 26th 2007 12:46 pm
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Mommy is getting ready to take me in for another round of that yucky chemo. I can tell because that plastic box is sitting out in the dining room, so I better make this fast....I need to go hide!
I just wanted to thank all of the kitties and their humans for my kitty treats, stars, and rosettes! I was so surprised to see them this morning. They all made me so happy. Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughts. It will make going to the hospital a little bit better.
Love to all, and lots of purrs,
Sheppy
PS: While I'm gone, my Big Sis JoJo will take over the diary entries. It makes her feel important. Plus, she's a better speller!
June 23rd 2007 2:29 pm
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I was NOT at all happy with Mommy last night! There I was, sleeping soundly, but trying too hard to get comfortable. I guess I readjusted my position one too many times for Mommy's liking, and WHOOSH! The next thing I knew, I was in that dreadful cage again. Oh, I was MAD! You know, I think I am usually a very mellow and understanding kitty. However, last night I wanted NOTHING to do with that plastic prison and that horrible lady in the white coat. And I made sure EVERONE knew it, and voiced my opinion very loudly...and nonstop.
We arrived at the hospital around 8:00 PM, and they were apparently expecting me. I know this, because some guy in a green outfit came out and picked me up. Mommy was crying, and lost her temper a bit when those ladies in the office asked her to fill paperwork out for the 23rd time. Then I was taken to the back with all of those loud, yucky, stinky, dogs. Some of them are nice..but, geez! Take a bath already!
The lady in the white coat that has been giving me my chemo was there, and she took two pictures of my insides, took my temperature (why does that thing have to be SO COLD!), listened to my heart, and felt my abdomen. I guess everything was to her liking, because she took me into a room where my Mommy was waiting for me. She told her that my lungs did have a small amount of fluid in them, but it was so minimal that they didn't feel the need to tap them. I guess it's the first time that I've only had a little bit of fluid in my lungs, so she was encouraged by that. She told Mommy that my temperature and everything else was perfect. Then she told her that I must have had a lot to eat, because my belly was filled with food. How embarrassing!
It was finally decided that my discomfort was most likely the result of still having staples in my chest, so she gave Mommy Buprenorphine syringes to give me when I can't sleep well. She also stopped my Clavamox, because it gave me diarrhea. I'm now on Metronidazole....and I hate it. It has a horrible taste, and I keep spitting it out. Mommy is most unhappy, because I need it twice a day. I heard her grumble something about shoving it down my throat tonight whether I want her to or not, but, we shall see!
So, that brings us to today. I've had tons to eat today, because I am on that appetite stimulant, Remeron. I don't think Mommy will be giving me that anymore....I don't seem to need it. I have been sleeping pretty much all day today, and that has made me feel better. I'm currently sitting on Mommy's lap, enjoying the good life. My big sister, JoJo, is sacked out in the office with us, on her kitty bed. To be quite honest, I have NO idea how she fits in that thing. She's a bit on the fluffy side.....or 'big-boned' as Mommy calls her.
I'll get in a good snuggle with her tonight.
Hope everyone has a great evening, and thank all of my friends for all of their support, prayers, and purrs. I love all of my gifts, and thank you for keeping me and my sister in your thoughts!!!!
Love, Shep
June 21st 2007 1:01 pm
[link to this entry]
After being stuck in my little cage for over a week, I am finally FREE! No more tubes, no more being woken up to check my respiration, no more eating that icky babyfood, and no more poking at my lungs to get excess fluid out! I'm FREE!
Mommy listened patiently as the woman in the white coat told her that I
haven't been eating very much, haven't taken a kitty poop in a while, and that I've been a bit lethargic. HELLO! I have been in and out of the hospital for 2 months now! I have had 4 major surgeries, I only get to see Mommy for an hour a day and all she does is cry, it's been hard to breathe because of this
yucky fluid in my lungs, AND they just started me on chemo Tuesday night!And she wants me to be perky! Ha!
Well, we got home a little bit ago. Mommy let me out of my cage, and the first thing I did was sharpen my claws. I'll be ready for that lady in the white coat next time! Then I made Mommy very happy. I consumed 2 whole cans of my favorite food EVER, ran up and down the stairs, opened every cabinet in the house, AND took a poop! Guess that lady was wrong, AGAIN!
Just finished eating 3 pieces of turkey. Mommy acts so happy when I swallow the pieces whole....I wonder if she is hiding something inside of them. Hmmmm. I will have to investigate this matter. (He is currently on Clavamox, Prednisone, Remeron, and 1/4 tablet of Pepcid.)
OK, diary. It is time for me to go to sleep. I have had an eventful day, and I am getting a bit tired. I've decided to sleep on the pillow next to Mommy's head. That way, when I get hungry at 2:00 AM, I don't have far to reach in order to wake her up. I find that a few swats to her forehead does the trick nicely..... works every time!
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