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
Ali praying for Lily and keeping your fmily in my heart.
Thank you for the update
We were on that Roller Coaster for 5 weeks not to long ago
{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
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I feel for you. Pets give us so much joy but when the time comes and they are suffering, we suffer too. We had to make the difficult decision a few years ago to put our dog down and I agonized over it for days. One of my son's friends put it into perspective for me though. His wise words (at 23yr. no less) were "when you are responsible for a pet, that means making sure that pet doesn't suffer, so you have to know you did the right thing for her." I felt somewhat better but the entire experience was still heart-breaking. Hang in there Edwards family!
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hugs to you and your family during this time. thinking of Lily and what a sweet part she adds. I will pray for comfort for you and yours.
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Praying for Lily and thinking of your family during this time. Pets are really family members disguised under a ball of fur. :) Take all the time you need to be with her.
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Praying for all of you. Pets are such a dynamic part of our lives, and I'm so proud of you for doing everything you can for Lily. Keep us posted, please.
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Prayers for Lily and family.
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Thinking of you and your sweet family and praying for comfort for you all.
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I still remember one of your first published layouts (perhaps in CK?) where you and your beautiful dog Lily were walking along the Oregon coast.
Pets are such an important part of our lives and help to feed our souls. Take all the time you need...
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I can only imagine. Keeping Lily and all of you in our prayers.
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Prayers for you, your family and Lily.
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Sending hugs, thoughts and prayers. We lost our family friend and beloved canine companion of 15 years last year after many ups and downs. I'm glad you have lots of family around for comfort.
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Keeping Lily in my thoughts. These furry friends manage to creep into our hearts and are part of our family.
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It is so hard to watch your dog suffer when you can't explain it to them. Lots of prayers for you all.
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Thinking and praying for all of you!
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Thinking of you and your precious Lily.
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Ali, I was so afraid that this was why you were quiet. Give sweet Lily all the time that she needs. Prayers for her and for you to have wisdom when you need it most. Blessings to all.
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Oh, Ali. I'll be thinking of you and Lily. There are no words to describe how hard having a sick animal is...Especially one that's such a part of your family. Keep us posted.
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Lots of love and energy to you, your family and Lily.
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Sending positive thoughts for Lily and all of you at this difficult time.
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Strong prayers being sent your way!
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