The Roller Coasters Of Life
Tags:Over the last five days or so we've been on a roller coaster of emotions with our dog Lily.
While camping she began having difficulty breathing and not being able to keep food or water down. Chris took her to the nearest emergency vet hospital where they put her on IV, sedated her and found a variety of maladies - the combination of which put her in critical condition. We made the decision to transfer her to a different emergency vet hospital in Tacoma (the next closest) to be able to see a specialist and get more information (underlying causes, etc) before deciding how to proceed.
Since we've been here in Tacoma it's been close to the end and then it's been a bit better. It's been up and down, each day waiting for a different test, a new hope, a bit of recovery.
Riding the coaster is hard. Being here with family while riding the coaster makes things easier and keeps the kids entertained.
Today she seems on the upswing, able to keep some food down last night, but there's still other conditions that need to be addressed. We're waiting for another update from the main doctor today to determine the next course of action.
Lily's 11. She's had an awesome full life and has been a great companion for our family.
I appreciate your patience and your kindness towards our family and Lily as we move forward in the coming days.

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307 comments
Oh goodness. Sending prayers and kind thoughts for comfort and wisdom in this difficult time. =)
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Oh ALi, I am so sorry your family is dealing with this. It is so hard because our pets are part of our family. I am keeping Lily and your family in my prayers and sending all our you big hugs!
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So sorry to hear about Lily. She will be in my prayers and sending good thoughts to the Edwards family.
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so sorry, this is difficult, your all in my thoughts and prayers.
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big hugs Ali, I know how I would feel if this were my dog, I love my dog as a son (not kidding here)....and I am praying and sending lots of love to you and your sweet Lily!!
tara
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Oh goodness, so sorry to read this. Pets are such a wonderful part of our lives and provide such richness. There is never a good time for them to have critical medical conditions. Hoping for the best and for great vets to know how to proceed. HUGS!
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So sorry to hear about your dog, Lily. Thinking of you and your family!
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Ali - hopefully things won't go this way, but I thought of your family when I saw this.
http://her0inchic.tumblr.com/post/5310368240/our-14-year-old-dog-abbey-died-last-month-the
Also - When our beloved family died when I was a kid, my mom had the idea that we should think of 10 good things about Max. The first few were easy, but soon we were reaching for things like "Max always ate all of his food," and "he only bit one person." We still talk about that list and remember him fondly!
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Our hearts and prayers are with your family. You are in a great area for quality veterinarians. Wishing each of you & Lily comfort and peace. {{HUGS}} to all.
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I'm thinking and praying for your sweet Lily and all of you. Anyone who has ever loved and been loved by a furry member of their family knows what you are going through. it's one of the most difficult things.
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So sorry to hear this. Will keep your family in our prayers!
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Its so hard when our pets are sick. Its never easy to have to make such tough decisions. sending healing prayers for Lily and ((Hugs)) to you and your family.
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Ali,so many prayers for you and your family. They are such loyal,faithful,kind companions. I have loved hearing about Lily through the years and how she is such a huge part of your family. We had two Goldens who were/are so very much a part of our family. Much love.
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Ali, I am sitting here in tears and I don't even know you personally! My thoughts and prayers are with you and you family during this difficult time. Not too long ago (last September) I was in the same spot you are right now, so I definitely know what you are going through. Zeus was 11 also - he lived a long and full life. But that doesn't make it any easier! I look forward to hopefully hearing good news from you in the coming days - just know we are all thinking about you!
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Ali you have brought tears to eyes. My animals (all animals) are very special to me - they are a part of our family. I have been in the same place as you are more than once and it is not easy. It sounds like you are doing everything possible to help Lily and more importantly keep her comfortable. The most important thing is to be there for her and for her to know that you are there.
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So sorry. We too have a lab that is a beloved family member - Lady who will be 10 years old on 9/01/11. She is our memory keeper dog. We will soon have to put down our 12 year old dog. These two girls have grown up with our kids and have slept by their beds. My heart goes out to you and your family.
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Thinking of you and Miss Lily! I have had three labs and have been where you have been. It isn't easy and I wish you and your family all the best!
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<3
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I have followed your Lily through the years on your blog and on your layouts. She has a special place in my heart too, because I have a black lab mix named Lily. When I think of her, I think of your Lily (and vice versa). Your Lily HAS had a wonderful, full life as part of your family! Prayers for the best outcome for her and for you.
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So sorry Ali. We recently lost a pet. It is so hard to know what to do sometimes. I hope the answers are clear for you if you have to make a hard decision.
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