Hey folks!

Last Monday, 1/23, I took my dog Maeby to the vet because of a suspicious lump on her side. I was hoping it was just a fatty tumor, as many dogs get, but my gut was telling me otherwise. On Thursday, 1/26, test results came back confirming my worst fear. She was diagnosed with a subcutaneous soft tissue sarcoma, such as a peripheral nerve sheath tumor.

We went to see the oncologist today. The initial prognosis wasn’t very hopeful. I walked in absolutely convinced I was going to be told that surgery was not an option, or too risky of one, so we would focus on managing her quality of life. I was scared she wasn’t going to see another Spring.

After discussion with the oncologist and the surgeon, they are optimistic that, not only can they remove the tumor with clean margins, but that it’s a low grade tumor and the chance of recurrence is very low. We’ve decided to move forward with the surgery, which will be next Wednesday, 2/8.

My pride is taking a huge hit in doing this, but with the visit today ($729.40) and the estimate for surgery ($3,200-$3,800), it’s a big unplanned cost. I should have an itemized estimate tomorrow and I will update this fundraiser once I do. We have applied for CareCredit in the meantime, in the hopes it’ll help alleviate some of that immediate financial burden. Taking on more debt is going to put a great deal of strain on us and is less than ideal. She is worth the strain though. We’ll do whatever we have to.

But… if you’re able, any little bit you can spare to help would be so greatly appreciated. Truly no pressure. I’m just happy I have a chance at more years with my girl.