In a few hours I'll be taking Murphy back up to CSU for his first dose of radiation. While I'm still learning everything I can about it all, the 'Gold Standard' of Care seems to be 18-20 doses of radiation over three to four weeks.
Dr. La Rue will be the radiation oncologist caring for him. The tumor sits atop his hard palate so the biggest concerns from radiation are mouth ulcerations and the outside chance that it'll burn a hole in his sinus.
Dr. La Rue will be the radiation oncologist caring for him. The tumor sits atop his hard palate so the biggest concerns from radiation are mouth ulcerations and the outside chance that it'll burn a hole in his sinus.
Things happen so fast in life and my head is swimming in scientific data, informed opinions, and my own hyperemotional state. I think back to one of the lessons we learned on the road.... crude... crass perhaps, but one that not only served us well on our travels but may have saved our lives.
Just outside Buffalo TX there are a series of three bridges which I affectionately referred to as the 'bridges of death' - there's a blog & photo in the archives here. It was the first time I was truly terrified on the walk. Narrow shoulders, supersized semis coming from both directions on a two lane highway, surrounded by mudflat marshes filled with water moccasins preventing any flanking strategies.
After thirty minutes of analzying traffic patterns, running calculations in my head on how to safely cross these bridges, I realized I was petrified. But I knew I had to act so I turned to Hudson & Murphy and said, "Well, boys, we can't stand around all day holding our peckers in our hands"...
Life demands decisions and even though Buffalo TX seems light years away, I find myself back on that bridge again.
After reading extensively and consulting with thought leaders this seems the best course of action. Thank you to everyone who sent us alternative ideas and treatments.
After reading extensively and consulting with thought leaders this seems the best course of action. Thank you to everyone who sent us alternative ideas and treatments.
16 comments:
My heart is literally breaking for you and Murphy. This just shouldn't be happening...
Good luck with the radiation. Our girl, Jezebel, had melanoma in her snout - a different type of cancer, yes, but she had radiation on her nose. She did well with it and aside from a swollen nose after the third dose and her muzzle hair falling out (but it grew back), her quality of life was fine during treatment. Good luck to you.
Good luck Luke and Murphy. Everyone here is wishing you both success.
Tilly and I are sending love and wishes to you all......
I am so, so sorry to hear about Murphy's cancer. Keeping my fingers crossed for the best possible outcome!!
Sue LaRue is a pioneer in the field. You absolutely have the best of the best!
Luke/Murphy, praying for God to be present during your treatment and guide the hands of anyone administering this treatment to you. I just lost my 14 year old mini schnauzer on 3/18/10 to congestive heart failure after a two year battle and I know how terrifying this must be. Be brave and be strong and keep us posted! Wishing you peace! H. Marty Schelper
We heard about your from one of our blog friends. We're praying for you and Murphy and are sending lots of love and healing vibes.
Love,
Teddy Bear
I've just come from Loving for a living Blog, So sad to hear the news of Murphy, but he looks like he's in the best hands.
See Yea George and Jan xxxx
We wish you much good luck and strength as you fight this battle! You're both in our thoughts and prayers today!
Woof! Woof! Sending you my Golden Healing Thoughts. Lots of Golden LOVE. Lots of Golden Woofs, Sugar
We're wishing you and Murph the best. He's in good hands at CSU. Let's hook up on one of your upcoming visits. We're less than an hour away and are often in town.
We are praying for the treatment to work. Paws crossed also. Lots of love, Debbie and Holly
We will be praying for you and Murphy. I would be devastated in your shoes.
I am a friend of Scout and Freyja and Mimi.
I am so speechless as I read about sweet Murphy. I know your heart is breaking and sad and frightened, we wish we could help,,, but right now all we can do is say that we care and we are sending our prayers for Murphy and for you, and sending you love too.
love
tweedles
Luke,
About a month before you completed your trip, my Lab Deuce was diagnosed with nose cancer. He's is pretty bad shape and doesn't have long with us. He's spent 12 long years with us, but deserves more than to go this way. All I can do is watch him and when he shows signs of suffering, let him go to sleep peacefully. This haunts me every moment of every day. A dog is a direct reflection of his companion, and Murphy has a damned strong, and determined companion. I wish there was something I could do for Deuce and Murphy, but all I can do is wish them both Godspeed. Deuce and Bob
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