Here goes....
Kalvin and I just got back from taking Harper to the vet for a check of the wound and also a dressing change. We were advised that he is not a good candidate for an "open wound heal" so they wanted to keep him and take him into surgery again this afternoon. They are going to clean out the wound, stitch it closed in 3 layers, put staples over the stitches, and a dressing over that. He is supposed to have 1 week of strict cage rest and voila! should be healed. We can only hope that it goes as well as was described and needless to say we are less than total optimists at this point.
I expressed my concern about Harper's age and the toll that this has taken on him. I also shared with Dr. Carre that we never imagined this outcome and if we even thought it was a remote possibility we wouldn't have pursued the surgery in the first place. We would never want to put any dog through all of this, let alone an almost 9 year old that has lead a very priveledged and easy life. Although she can not control how his body responds, seeing the gaping wound makes me realize that it wasn't an ideal location and it was simply too big to remove as easily as we had hoped. I guess that the old saying "hind sight is 20/20" would apply here.
We've gotten ourselves in too deep to give up on Harper now so that said Kelsey will pick him up this evening, give him lots of love and medication, and follow doctor's orders for strict cage rest for 1 week with visits to their office every other day until then.
Unfortunately when we scheduled the surgery last Wednesday we thought he would be well on his way in the healing process by today. Kal and I fly out of St. Louis this afternoon to go back to Ohio until Sunday. We are going to celebrate my brother's college graduation.
We'll post again this evening once Harper is home.
Until then.......
Melissa
Monday, May 4, 2009
Saturday, May 2, 2009
More on Harper
Well.... things are not going as well as we'd anticipated and hoped. We have had Harper to the vets office twice since we brought him home on Wednesday night. The first time (Friday) his staples were pulling through the skin and the wound was starting to open up. We took him to have the staples fixed and brought him home with an antibiotic and also a sedative.
This morning we woke up to find that the wound was completely opened up and the staples had all pulled right through the skin. His incision was laying wide open ( it is 3" long by 2" wide) and is exposed down to the muscle. We went back to the vet and they cleaned it out and decided that it was best left open. There is too little skin and too much swelling to close it up and keep it closed. We headed back home with no staples or stitches, just a dressing, and another antibiotic. Now we are dealing with a terribly gross (and I'm sure very painful) wound that we are trying to keep covered with a gauze pad dressing and a tube sock (to hold the dressing on). It is in an awful location and proves to be difficult to keep covered. We go in Monday for a dressing change (although we change it every 6-8 hours as it soaks through and falls off) and hopefully some good news or at least a plan.
I appologize for the down and out nature of this entry but it unfortunately is reflective of our present outlook on this situation. Kelsey and I both have felt (luckily at different times) that we have possibly done Harper a disservice by putting him through this. We feel terrible as when we decided to proceed with the procedure we never anticipated these problems. We thought that we were doing the right thing by having the tumor removed as he was otherwise healthy. The vet was very confident that this would be an easy procedure and reassured us that the location of the incision and the size of it would not be a problem. Now we are left hoping that things take a turn for the better and that his wound will close up sooner than later without becoming more infected than it already is. Please keep us in your prayers.
-Melissa
This morning we woke up to find that the wound was completely opened up and the staples had all pulled right through the skin. His incision was laying wide open ( it is 3" long by 2" wide) and is exposed down to the muscle. We went back to the vet and they cleaned it out and decided that it was best left open. There is too little skin and too much swelling to close it up and keep it closed. We headed back home with no staples or stitches, just a dressing, and another antibiotic. Now we are dealing with a terribly gross (and I'm sure very painful) wound that we are trying to keep covered with a gauze pad dressing and a tube sock (to hold the dressing on). It is in an awful location and proves to be difficult to keep covered. We go in Monday for a dressing change (although we change it every 6-8 hours as it soaks through and falls off) and hopefully some good news or at least a plan.
I appologize for the down and out nature of this entry but it unfortunately is reflective of our present outlook on this situation. Kelsey and I both have felt (luckily at different times) that we have possibly done Harper a disservice by putting him through this. We feel terrible as when we decided to proceed with the procedure we never anticipated these problems. We thought that we were doing the right thing by having the tumor removed as he was otherwise healthy. The vet was very confident that this would be an easy procedure and reassured us that the location of the incision and the size of it would not be a problem. Now we are left hoping that things take a turn for the better and that his wound will close up sooner than later without becoming more infected than it already is. Please keep us in your prayers.
-Melissa
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Update on Harper
Kalvin and I dropped Harper off at the pet hospital this morning about 9:00. Kalvin was very tearful and upset when they took Harper into the back. Those of you who know Kal, know that he isn't talking much at all. He got his point across though, he just kept repeating "Per (Harper) Momma Per" and he said with a great amount of authority "NO!" when the tech was petting Harper and getting ready to take him into the back. He didn't want anyone else touching his dog and he was very upset to leave the office without Harper. (so much so that he threw himself onto the sidewalk in typical toddler fashion)
I got a call at 10:00 reporting that Harper's lymph nodes appear to be unaffected by the cancer so we proceeded with surgery to remove the tumor. Surgery took a long time (almost 3 hours) but seemingly went well. They think that they were able to achieve clear margins but won't know for sure until they examine the tumor and the surrounding tissue that was removed. I picked Harper up at 5:00 and he was in pretty tough shape. He is having difficulty walking and has been very anxious. (Just the opposite of what I expected.) I anticipated him being very groggy throughout the evening and "sleeping off" the anesthesia. Hopefully he will settle down and rest throughout the night. His incision is stapled shut and is bleeding a bit with all of his recent activity. We go in 10-14 days to remove the staples.
Thanks to all who have kept us in your thoughts and or prayers. It is very much appreciated.
-Melissa
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Harper
Hello All.
We have some sad news to share about Harper. Those of you who have seen Harper in the past 5 years know that he has had a tumor on his hind leg. We have taken him to veterinarians in both Orlando and in Odessa and all opinions were that the tumor was harmless and removing it would serve a cosmetic purpose only. Therefore, we have left it alone.
Last Friday we took him to the vet as the tumor had doubled in size in just 5 days. It had gotten so big that it was broken open and bleeding. They were able to withdraw cells from the tumor and determine that it was indeed cancer. It is actually called a Mast Cell Tumor. We take him in tomorrow morning to have some further testing and possibly have it removed. We are going to have the lymph nodes checked to see if the cancer has already progressed to that point. Dependant on those results we may have the tumor removed. We won't be doing any further treatment for the cancer, believe it or not they recommend chemotherapy and radiation for dogs too, as he is already almost 9 years old.
At the present time, Harper is in good spirits and is doing very well. In fact, if you couldn't see the tumor you'd never know that he is ill. He still romps and runs with Kalvin, energetically runs around the yard, snuggles with his daddy, and is eating as well as he ever has. I know that complicating the decision making process.
We'll write another post after tomorrow's appointment. In the mean time, please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. As you all know, Harper is a part of the family and we all love him dearly. He is Kalvin's best friend and he holds a very special spot in Kelsey's heart. It goes without saying that this news has been difficult for all of us.
More to come-
Melissa
We have some sad news to share about Harper. Those of you who have seen Harper in the past 5 years know that he has had a tumor on his hind leg. We have taken him to veterinarians in both Orlando and in Odessa and all opinions were that the tumor was harmless and removing it would serve a cosmetic purpose only. Therefore, we have left it alone.
Last Friday we took him to the vet as the tumor had doubled in size in just 5 days. It had gotten so big that it was broken open and bleeding. They were able to withdraw cells from the tumor and determine that it was indeed cancer. It is actually called a Mast Cell Tumor. We take him in tomorrow morning to have some further testing and possibly have it removed. We are going to have the lymph nodes checked to see if the cancer has already progressed to that point. Dependant on those results we may have the tumor removed. We won't be doing any further treatment for the cancer, believe it or not they recommend chemotherapy and radiation for dogs too, as he is already almost 9 years old.
At the present time, Harper is in good spirits and is doing very well. In fact, if you couldn't see the tumor you'd never know that he is ill. He still romps and runs with Kalvin, energetically runs around the yard, snuggles with his daddy, and is eating as well as he ever has. I know that complicating the decision making process.
We'll write another post after tomorrow's appointment. In the mean time, please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. As you all know, Harper is a part of the family and we all love him dearly. He is Kalvin's best friend and he holds a very special spot in Kelsey's heart. It goes without saying that this news has been difficult for all of us.
More to come-
Melissa
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
waiting for warm weather....
Hello again!!
Since our last post we have had experienced a few exciting events. First, Mimi and Papa Pickering came to visit and we spent an unseasonably nice day at the zoo. Mimi bought me a new zoo hat (the one from last summer was expectedly too small). They also brought the fire engine bed with them that they had bought for my older cousin Kellen when he was a little boy. I don't sleep in it as I require more wiggle room than it provides but I have a fun time playing in it!
After Mimi and Papa's visit we went to Ohio to see Mommy's side of the family and to celebrate Aunt Chris' 30th birthday. Aside from a very long drive, we had a great time. Mommy and I visited Aunt Chris at work and I got to sit in the pilot seat of a few different airplanes. We also got a great view of a couple airplanes taking off and landing. I liked it so much that I had a meltdown when it was time to leave! While in Ohio I had my first sleepover. My cousins Ryan, Andrew, and I stayed with my Poppie and Nonnie. Understandably, Nonnie didn't get a great nights sleep contenting with Wiggle (Ryan) and Thrash (ME) !! Mommy was so proud when she got home as both Poppie and Nonnie had a good report for her! Daddy didn't get to go with us because he had to work but when we got back he was on Spring Break. We spent the week hanging out around the house as we had some rainy, cold weather to contend with.
We celebrated my second Easter and I had my very first Easter egg hunt!!! Mommy could not believe how quickly I caught on to the concept. Daddy hid the eggs around the front yard and I had a blast finding them. (There are pictures and video on dropshots.) I especially enjoyed coming inside to find out that there were TREATS inside of the eggs. Mommy stuffed the eggs with fruit snacks, peppermints, and money. When Mommy took me to the store to pick out the candy I grabbed a handful of peppermints and stuffed them into the bag. She asked me what else I wanted but I was completely content with the peppermints. I proudly carried them to the cashier and even paid for my treats all by myself! To Mommy's delight, I enjoyed the fruit snacks, obviously wanted the peppermints, and I was totally unimpressed with the money. Mommy and Daddy can only hope that I keep with that trend!
We hope that you all had a blessed Easter and enjoyed your family and friends. Mommy promises not to go so long before our next post so needless to say it won't be as long or incorporate so many different topics.
Hugs and Kisses,
Kalvin (and Mommy)
Since our last post we have had experienced a few exciting events. First, Mimi and Papa Pickering came to visit and we spent an unseasonably nice day at the zoo. Mimi bought me a new zoo hat (the one from last summer was expectedly too small). They also brought the fire engine bed with them that they had bought for my older cousin Kellen when he was a little boy. I don't sleep in it as I require more wiggle room than it provides but I have a fun time playing in it!
After Mimi and Papa's visit we went to Ohio to see Mommy's side of the family and to celebrate Aunt Chris' 30th birthday. Aside from a very long drive, we had a great time. Mommy and I visited Aunt Chris at work and I got to sit in the pilot seat of a few different airplanes. We also got a great view of a couple airplanes taking off and landing. I liked it so much that I had a meltdown when it was time to leave! While in Ohio I had my first sleepover. My cousins Ryan, Andrew, and I stayed with my Poppie and Nonnie. Understandably, Nonnie didn't get a great nights sleep contenting with Wiggle (Ryan) and Thrash (ME) !! Mommy was so proud when she got home as both Poppie and Nonnie had a good report for her! Daddy didn't get to go with us because he had to work but when we got back he was on Spring Break. We spent the week hanging out around the house as we had some rainy, cold weather to contend with.
We celebrated my second Easter and I had my very first Easter egg hunt!!! Mommy could not believe how quickly I caught on to the concept. Daddy hid the eggs around the front yard and I had a blast finding them. (There are pictures and video on dropshots.) I especially enjoyed coming inside to find out that there were TREATS inside of the eggs. Mommy stuffed the eggs with fruit snacks, peppermints, and money. When Mommy took me to the store to pick out the candy I grabbed a handful of peppermints and stuffed them into the bag. She asked me what else I wanted but I was completely content with the peppermints. I proudly carried them to the cashier and even paid for my treats all by myself! To Mommy's delight, I enjoyed the fruit snacks, obviously wanted the peppermints, and I was totally unimpressed with the money. Mommy and Daddy can only hope that I keep with that trend!
We hope that you all had a blessed Easter and enjoyed your family and friends. Mommy promises not to go so long before our next post so needless to say it won't be as long or incorporate so many different topics.
Hugs and Kisses,
Kalvin (and Mommy)
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Hello, and Welcome!
Hello! I have thought for some time (23 months to be exact) that we should start a blog that will serve several purposes. It will not only help keep family and friends informed of our family happenings but will also serve as a journal of sorts that we can look back on to recall funny little moments from Kal's toddler years. I wanted to, but didn't, keep up on one throughout his infancy and regret not having done so. Luckily, I did keep a journal and a very accurate baby book so I will have those to cherish and read throughout the coming years. I have finally taken the time to sit down and figure this out, so now I would like to welcome you to the Pickering family's blog (The Kelsey Pickering family that is!)
For those of you who haven't kept up (I can't imagine why you wouldn't be able to do so- we have only lived in 3 different states in 5 years) we are now in Edwardsville, Illinois. We live about 20 minutes northeast of St. Louis. Kelsey took a job here for the 2008-2009 school year. He is a football coach and PE teacher at the high school. So far, we love the community and we feel very fortunate to be part of such a great school district.
I am still staying at home with our curious, vivacious little guy, Kalvin. I'm so grateful to be able to do so! Our days are filled with all kinds of little boy's joys. Of course we have the never-ending chores and responsibilites but we never pass up the opportunity to get outside and enjoy the nice weather; play with trains, trucks, and blocks; ride our bikes; pick up sticks, rocks, and leaves; read books; take walks; explore a new playground; feed the ducks; or just sit in a field watching birds and airplanes. Often times our chores get put off for a fun day at the park but I justify this by saying the chores will always be there :) Kalvin is now 19.5 months old. He has the most beautiful personality and it is rare to find a stranger that he doesn't wave to and try to kiss (we're still working on this). Needless to say he wins the hearts of nearly everyone that he comes across and it warms my heart to just sit back and watch him in action. Kal is getting bigger everyday and loves to run, jump, and climb. He isn't talking much, very little actually, but he gets his point across very well through non-verbal communication (in other words- there is no reason for him to put forth the effort to talk). He signs to us and has a few basic words that get our attention everytime. His signs include help, more, please, thankyou, milk, papa, and poppie. He says bye, more, mama- or MA if he's scared, upset, or needs help, Per for Harper- the family dog, Da for daddy, and he trys to say milk and banana- two staples of his diet! He is a smart little boy that comprehends much more than we give him credit for sometimes. He may not speak but he comprehends the meaning of hundreds of words! Kelsey and I both say that once he does start talking he won't stop! I truely cannot imagine what I did before we had Kal. My life must have been so dull and boring! He keeps me laughing, keeps me on my toes, and keeps life interesting in the best possible way!
For those of you who haven't kept up (I can't imagine why you wouldn't be able to do so- we have only lived in 3 different states in 5 years) we are now in Edwardsville, Illinois. We live about 20 minutes northeast of St. Louis. Kelsey took a job here for the 2008-2009 school year. He is a football coach and PE teacher at the high school. So far, we love the community and we feel very fortunate to be part of such a great school district.
I am still staying at home with our curious, vivacious little guy, Kalvin. I'm so grateful to be able to do so! Our days are filled with all kinds of little boy's joys. Of course we have the never-ending chores and responsibilites but we never pass up the opportunity to get outside and enjoy the nice weather; play with trains, trucks, and blocks; ride our bikes; pick up sticks, rocks, and leaves; read books; take walks; explore a new playground; feed the ducks; or just sit in a field watching birds and airplanes. Often times our chores get put off for a fun day at the park but I justify this by saying the chores will always be there :) Kalvin is now 19.5 months old. He has the most beautiful personality and it is rare to find a stranger that he doesn't wave to and try to kiss (we're still working on this). Needless to say he wins the hearts of nearly everyone that he comes across and it warms my heart to just sit back and watch him in action. Kal is getting bigger everyday and loves to run, jump, and climb. He isn't talking much, very little actually, but he gets his point across very well through non-verbal communication (in other words- there is no reason for him to put forth the effort to talk). He signs to us and has a few basic words that get our attention everytime. His signs include help, more, please, thankyou, milk, papa, and poppie. He says bye, more, mama- or MA if he's scared, upset, or needs help, Per for Harper- the family dog, Da for daddy, and he trys to say milk and banana- two staples of his diet! He is a smart little boy that comprehends much more than we give him credit for sometimes. He may not speak but he comprehends the meaning of hundreds of words! Kelsey and I both say that once he does start talking he won't stop! I truely cannot imagine what I did before we had Kal. My life must have been so dull and boring! He keeps me laughing, keeps me on my toes, and keeps life interesting in the best possible way!
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