Thursday, November 18, 2010

Sweet Ruby


Our sweet Ruby was diagnosed with a malignant tumor in her elbow a couple of months ago. We were told that for more info, we could take her to an Oncologist. A quote for services from the oncology group was about $1300, simply for a consult and dx. I think not. I did some research instead and stumbled upon FOCC (Flax Seed Oil and Cottage Cheese). We also switched dog foods to a grain-free/high-priced variety. Within about a week, Ruby quit limping and became her old self. I kept this up for several weeks but then I got lazy or tired. About 2 weeks ago, Ruby began limping again. Then as quickly as that happened, she had a seizure. A week went by and then she had another. I called the Vet and he said to just keep an eye on her. It was possibly due to the pain in her arm but he doubted that it was the cancer spreading! I was kinda in disbelief but he said that this was not the type of tumor to spread. OK, you're the doctor. As soon as I hung up the phone, she had another seizure. She had about 6 more over the next 12 hours. I called the Vet back and he was out. We were referred to a Neurology group this time and they quoted me $2000+ to dx the cause of the seizures. HA! I called the Vet back and asked for phenobarbital. Ruby started on that, re-continued her Tramadol (pain meds) and of course, her FOCC. Last weekend wasn't pretty. She didn't have any more seizures but she was obviously wiped out. She barely moved and when she did, she was eliminating in random locations (Den, patio?, bedroom, etc). Well, just when I thought she was gone, she jumped up yesterday and just HAD to ride in the car to take the kids to school. YAY RUBY! She did it again today. Her limp is less, too.

Could the FOC really be that awesome? I don't know but something is helping her and I'm so thankful!

Kid updates


Wow, I'm a slacker. I haven't updated since July! I did start back to work and life just got busier.

Harper is now 6 months old and is doing great. She's attempting to army crawl - an inch here and there. She also gets up on all 4's and lurches forward to get something...usually something she shouldn't.

Spencer is loving his Pre-K class at The Rise School. His teacher is fantastic and really challenges him & it's obvious that he enjoys it. He is reading Level 1 readers at home and school and we started reading a chapter book at home and he is 'trying' to remain still and listen.

We recently discovered William in Spencer's top bunk! Yep, he figured out how to climb up. I wish he'd learned to climb down first though :). He started feeding himself over the last few months and with the help of his new teachers, he's doing better and better. It's an amazing relief to let him do it and frees up just a little bit of time for ME! He's also eating more challenging foods, though chewing well is still something we're working toward. He's trying hard to communicate, too. I think we're going to attempt potty training soon but I haven't decided 'when'. Maybe during the December/January break.

Both boys LOVE their baby sister and enjoy making her laugh. It's so fun to watch.