Re: Slinky - Please add to the CLS

2007-04-05 Thread Gina WN
You made me tear up Beth.  I found a little lock of fur in my house after my 
Buddy died and I kept it.  I like to pet it now and again.  I totally 
understand where you are coming from.
   
  Gina
  

Gussies mom [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
I'm so sorry..
  I know how hard it is. If my boyfriend hadn't bee holding me when I put my 
second FeLV kitty to sleep I really think I would have snatched her from the 
table and ran, even though I knew it was the right thing to do.
   
  I had the vet shave some hair from the belly of one of my FeLV cats after he 
was PTS. He had the most beautiful golden belly fur. I put it in the jar with 
his ashes. Now I can pet him any time I want.
   
  Beth

Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
Hi all.  I guess I need to complete the updates on Slinky, huh?  
   
  Yes, he went to the bridge last night.  I was having second thoughts all day 
yesterday...he, of course, perked up a bit, sat in the window sill again 
(hadn't done that in ages), and was still drinking, eating, and breathing fine. 
 I even started to wonder if his nose looked pinker.
   
  But I decided to go to the vet appointment and ask her what she thought - and 
that all important question, what would you do if he were your kitty?  
   
  Right before we left I think I finally understood that it really was time.  
It occurred to me that on Sunday he was very cuddly with me and initiating some 
cuddle time on his own.  But yesterday he didn't want anything to do with me.  
And when we left the vet on Monday, someone said he'd tell me when it was time, 
and I remember thinking, I think he already has told me but I didn't want to 
believe it.  I think his spirit left on Sunday...I think all that cuddling was 
him saying goodbye and beginning to get ready for the journey.
   
  So we went to the vet and I asked her if she thought his nose looked pinker.  
She looked at his gums, etc. and assured me that they were not.  I was tempted 
to have her do another CBC, but that seemed like just adding to the torture 
he'd already been through.  Without my even asking, the vet said, If this were 
my cat, this is what I would be doing.  Not only is he not getting any better, 
but he's actually getting steadily worse...and he's just going to suffer if we 
wait much longer.  She of course pointed out that I had the option of waiting, 
but that seemed like it would just drag out the inevitable.  He was so weak the 
last couple days that he couldn't even get back on the bed once he'd gotten 
down.
   
  The vet explained everything in detail and even shaved some of his fur for me 
since I'd forgotten I wanted a sample (good cuz what she got was way better 
than anything I could've gotten with a scissors).  Then she gave him the 
tranquilizer (I think she did it quickly so I wouldn't have time to change my 
mind...knowing that was best for me and for Slinky).  She said it would take a 
few minutes for it to work, so they left and I just held him and cried and told 
him how much I loved him.  Thanked him for letting me share in his life and 
told him I was giving him the only gift I could at this point.  The room we 
were in had a beautiful painting of the bridge, so I showed it to him and told 
him that was where he was going.  
   
  They had put a sheep skin-like pad on the table and when they came back I 
laid him on that and put his head on his favorite pillow (he loved to knead on 
this sqush pillow I have).  She thought they might have to put a catheter in 
his front leg to get the needle in since his veins were so small, but she was 
able to do it in his back leg.  Once it was in, I just held him and cried and 
cried some more.  But I know he was in peace.
   
  He visited me this morning - as I was waking up I could hear the birds 
outside my window and I distinctly heard a meow (I remember thinking that I 
didn't know of a bird that meowed).  When it happened I got chills.  And when I 
woke up fully I realized that he was letting me know that he's happy and he 
loves me.  
   
  I'm actually doing much better than I expected to be.  After the vet 
appointment my friend took me out to dinner and then to ben and jerry's 
(self-medicating is always good!), which distracted me and that helped a lot.  
Of course when I got home I completely lost it, but I knew that would happen.  
I called dad and he was wondeful about telling me I did all the right things, 
that he loves me, and not to worry about paying all those bills back 'till some 
time in the future.  
   
  Today I relaxed in the morning and then went and got my hair cut (my stylist 
is dad's partner and the owner of the salon...so he has lots of experience 
with losing kitties) and did some shopping.  I got a stuffed kitty that looks 
just like Slinky, so he'll be my new sleeping buddy.  I thought I would lose it 
when I came home tonight, but I just choked up for a bit and really was okay.  
I know all the prayers and thoughts everyone is sending me are 

Re: Slinky - Please add to the CLS

2007-03-31 Thread catatonya
Marissa, 
   
  I'm so sorry to hear that you lost your Slinky.  He is still there with you 
and will wait for you at the bridge.
   
  tonya

Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
Hi all.  I guess I need to complete the updates on Slinky, huh?  
   
  Yes, he went to the bridge last night.  I was having second thoughts all day 
yesterday...he, of course, perked up a bit, sat in the window sill again 
(hadn't done that in ages), and was still drinking, eating, and breathing fine. 
 I even started to wonder if his nose looked pinker.
   
  But I decided to go to the vet appointment and ask her what she thought - and 
that all important question, what would you do if he were your kitty?  
   
  Right before we left I think I finally understood that it really was time.  
It occurred to me that on Sunday he was very cuddly with me and initiating some 
cuddle time on his own.  But yesterday he didn't want anything to do with me.  
And when we left the vet on Monday, someone said he'd tell me when it was time, 
and I remember thinking, I think he already has told me but I didn't want to 
believe it.  I think his spirit left on Sunday...I think all that cuddling was 
him saying goodbye and beginning to get ready for the journey.
   
  So we went to the vet and I asked her if she thought his nose looked pinker.  
She looked at his gums, etc. and assured me that they were not.  I was tempted 
to have her do another CBC, but that seemed like just adding to the torture 
he'd already been through.  Without my even asking, the vet said, If this were 
my cat, this is what I would be doing.  Not only is he not getting any better, 
but he's actually getting steadily worse...and he's just going to suffer if we 
wait much longer.  She of course pointed out that I had the option of waiting, 
but that seemed like it would just drag out the inevitable.  He was so weak the 
last couple days that he couldn't even get back on the bed once he'd gotten 
down.
   
  The vet explained everything in detail and even shaved some of his fur for me 
since I'd forgotten I wanted a sample (good cuz what she got was way better 
than anything I could've gotten with a scissors).  Then she gave him the 
tranquilizer (I think she did it quickly so I wouldn't have time to change my 
mind...knowing that was best for me and for Slinky).  She said it would take a 
few minutes for it to work, so they left and I just held him and cried and told 
him how much I loved him.  Thanked him for letting me share in his life and 
told him I was giving him the only gift I could at this point.  The room we 
were in had a beautiful painting of the bridge, so I showed it to him and told 
him that was where he was going.  
   
  They had put a sheep skin-like pad on the table and when they came back I 
laid him on that and put his head on his favorite pillow (he loved to knead on 
this sqush pillow I have).  She thought they might have to put a catheter in 
his front leg to get the needle in since his veins were so small, but she was 
able to do it in his back leg.  Once it was in, I just held him and cried and 
cried some more.  But I know he was in peace.
   
  He visited me this morning - as I was waking up I could hear the birds 
outside my window and I distinctly heard a meow (I remember thinking that I 
didn't know of a bird that meowed).  When it happened I got chills.  And when I 
woke up fully I realized that he was letting me know that he's happy and he 
loves me.  
   
  I'm actually doing much better than I expected to be.  After the vet 
appointment my friend took me out to dinner and then to ben and jerry's 
(self-medicating is always good!), which distracted me and that helped a lot.  
Of course when I got home I completely lost it, but I knew that would happen.  
I called dad and he was wondeful about telling me I did all the right things, 
that he loves me, and not to worry about paying all those bills back 'till some 
time in the future.  
   
  Today I relaxed in the morning and then went and got my hair cut (my stylist 
is dad's partner and the owner of the salon...so he has lots of experience 
with losing kitties) and did some shopping.  I got a stuffed kitty that looks 
just like Slinky, so he'll be my new sleeping buddy.  I thought I would lose it 
when I came home tonight, but I just choked up for a bit and really was okay.  
I know all the prayers and thoughts everyone is sending me are helping a ton!!! 
 I think half the population of the US is praying for me and checking on me!
   
  You guys have been absolutely amazing and having people to talk to who've 
been there and understand how this is has been an unbelievable help!  Thank you 
all so much for all your support!!!
   
  I know this is kinda long, but since you've all been reading so much about 
Slink, I thought you might want to know some of the details of his crossing.  
Thanks again for everything...I know I couldn't get through this without you!!
   
  Love to you and 

Re: Slinky - Please add to the CLS

2007-03-29 Thread dede hicken
Marissa, I am so sorry you had to go through this. I
know Slinky knows how much you loved him.  I pray you
find peace in the days ahead.

Dede and Ki


--- Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED]
wrote:

 Hi all.  I guess I need to complete the updates on
 Slinky, huh?  

 

When you are in the service of your fellow beings, you are only in the service 
of your God
   Mosiah 2:17


 

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Check out Tonight's Picks on Yahoo! TV.
http://tv.yahoo.com/



Re: Slinky - Please add to the CLS

2007-03-29 Thread wendy
Hey Marissa,

I cried reading your post this morning.  I am hoping
the kids who are testing across the library from me
aren't watching.  That old familiar lump kept popping
up in my throat as I read along, first when you talked
about giving him the only gift you could at that
point, then when you spoke of laying him on his pillow
while they did the catheter and crying, and then again
when you spoke of your dad, and how wonderfully
understanding and kind he was to you.  That kind of
kindness is just invaluable.  I laughed when you said
that you thought half the u.s. population is praying
for you.  I felt that way too when I came here when
Cricket was sick.  After he died, people here told me
that he would visit me again.  A few mornings after
Cricket died, I woke up and looked down beside my bed
and there was a cricket there.  Granted, it was not
alive, but still...usually we have a lot of crickets
around november in texas and we just didn't have a
cricket season that year.  I hadn't seen any, so it
shocked me to see this lone cricket by my bed.  And
Cricket was always 'different'...lol, so it would not
surprise me that he would leave a dead cricket by my
bed to try to communicate with me.  

I just want to tell you how much I think of you that
you did all you could for Slinky.  Bless you for your
unconditional and endless love for Slinky.

:)
Wendy

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the 
world: Indeed it is the only thing that ever has! ~~~ Margaret Meade ~~~


 

Don't pick lemons.
See all the new 2007 cars at Yahoo! Autos.
http://autos.yahoo.com/new_cars.html 



Re: Slinky - Please add to the CLS

2007-03-29 Thread Gina WN
Marissa,
   
  My heart aches for your loss of Slinky.
   
  Gina
  

Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
Hi all.  I guess I need to complete the updates on Slinky, huh?  
   
  Yes, he went to the bridge last night.  I was having second thoughts all day 
yesterday...he, of course, perked up a bit, sat in the window sill again 
(hadn't done that in ages), and was still drinking, eating, and breathing fine. 
 I even started to wonder if his nose looked pinker.
   
  But I decided to go to the vet appointment and ask her what she thought - and 
that all important question, what would you do if he were your kitty?  
   
  Right before we left I think I finally understood that it really was time.  
It occurred to me that on Sunday he was very cuddly with me and initiating some 
cuddle time on his own.  But yesterday he didn't want anything to do with me.  
And when we left the vet on Monday, someone said he'd tell me when it was time, 
and I remember thinking, I think he already has told me but I didn't want to 
believe it.  I think his spirit left on Sunday...I think all that cuddling was 
him saying goodbye and beginning to get ready for the journey.
   
  So we went to the vet and I asked her if she thought his nose looked pinker.  
She looked at his gums, etc. and assured me that they were not.  I was tempted 
to have her do another CBC, but that seemed like just adding to the torture 
he'd already been through.  Without my even asking, the vet said, If this were 
my cat, this is what I would be doing.  Not only is he not getting any better, 
but he's actually getting steadily worse...and he's just going to suffer if we 
wait much longer.  She of course pointed out that I had the option of waiting, 
but that seemed like it would just drag out the inevitable.  He was so weak the 
last couple days that he couldn't even get back on the bed once he'd gotten 
down.
   
  The vet explained everything in detail and even shaved some of his fur for me 
since I'd forgotten I wanted a sample (good cuz what she got was way better 
than anything I could've gotten with a scissors).  Then she gave him the 
tranquilizer (I think she did it quickly so I wouldn't have time to change my 
mind...knowing that was best for me and for Slinky).  She said it would take a 
few minutes for it to work, so they left and I just held him and cried and told 
him how much I loved him.  Thanked him for letting me share in his life and 
told him I was giving him the only gift I could at this point.  The room we 
were in had a beautiful painting of the bridge, so I showed it to him and told 
him that was where he was going.  
   
  They had put a sheep skin-like pad on the table and when they came back I 
laid him on that and put his head on his favorite pillow (he loved to knead on 
this sqush pillow I have).  She thought they might have to put a catheter in 
his front leg to get the needle in since his veins were so small, but she was 
able to do it in his back leg.  Once it was in, I just held him and cried and 
cried some more.  But I know he was in peace.
   
  He visited me this morning - as I was waking up I could hear the birds 
outside my window and I distinctly heard a meow (I remember thinking that I 
didn't know of a bird that meowed).  When it happened I got chills.  And when I 
woke up fully I realized that he was letting me know that he's happy and he 
loves me.  
   
  I'm actually doing much better than I expected to be.  After the vet 
appointment my friend took me out to dinner and then to ben and jerry's 
(self-medicating is always good!), which distracted me and that helped a lot.  
Of course when I got home I completely lost it, but I knew that would happen.  
I called dad and he was wondeful about telling me I did all the right things, 
that he loves me, and not to worry about paying all those bills back 'till some 
time in the future.  
   
  Today I relaxed in the morning and then went and got my hair cut (my stylist 
is dad's partner and the owner of the salon...so he has lots of experience 
with losing kitties) and did some shopping.  I got a stuffed kitty that looks 
just like Slinky, so he'll be my new sleeping buddy.  I thought I would lose it 
when I came home tonight, but I just choked up for a bit and really was okay.  
I know all the prayers and thoughts everyone is sending me are helping a ton!!! 
 I think half the population of the US is praying for me and checking on me!
   
  You guys have been absolutely amazing and having people to talk to who've 
been there and understand how this is has been an unbelievable help!  Thank you 
all so much for all your support!!!
   
  I know this is kinda long, but since you've all been reading so much about 
Slink, I thought you might want to know some of the details of his crossing.  
Thanks again for everything...I know I couldn't get through this without you!!
   
  Love to you and all your furkids!
   
  MJ

-
  

Re: Slinky - Please add to the CLS

2007-03-29 Thread Gussies mom
I'm so sorry..
  I know how hard it is. If my boyfriend hadn't bee holding me when I put my 
second FeLV kitty to sleep I really think I would have snatched her from the 
table and ran, even though I knew it was the right thing to do.
   
  I had the vet shave some hair from the belly of one of my FeLV cats after he 
was PTS. He had the most beautiful golden belly fur. I put it in the jar with 
his ashes. Now I can pet him any time I want.
   
  Beth

Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
Hi all.  I guess I need to complete the updates on Slinky, huh?  
   
  Yes, he went to the bridge last night.  I was having second thoughts all day 
yesterday...he, of course, perked up a bit, sat in the window sill again 
(hadn't done that in ages), and was still drinking, eating, and breathing fine. 
 I even started to wonder if his nose looked pinker.
   
  But I decided to go to the vet appointment and ask her what she thought - and 
that all important question, what would you do if he were your kitty?  
   
  Right before we left I think I finally understood that it really was time.  
It occurred to me that on Sunday he was very cuddly with me and initiating some 
cuddle time on his own.  But yesterday he didn't want anything to do with me.  
And when we left the vet on Monday, someone said he'd tell me when it was time, 
and I remember thinking, I think he already has told me but I didn't want to 
believe it.  I think his spirit left on Sunday...I think all that cuddling was 
him saying goodbye and beginning to get ready for the journey.
   
  So we went to the vet and I asked her if she thought his nose looked pinker.  
She looked at his gums, etc. and assured me that they were not.  I was tempted 
to have her do another CBC, but that seemed like just adding to the torture 
he'd already been through.  Without my even asking, the vet said, If this were 
my cat, this is what I would be doing.  Not only is he not getting any better, 
but he's actually getting steadily worse...and he's just going to suffer if we 
wait much longer.  She of course pointed out that I had the option of waiting, 
but that seemed like it would just drag out the inevitable.  He was so weak the 
last couple days that he couldn't even get back on the bed once he'd gotten 
down.
   
  The vet explained everything in detail and even shaved some of his fur for me 
since I'd forgotten I wanted a sample (good cuz what she got was way better 
than anything I could've gotten with a scissors).  Then she gave him the 
tranquilizer (I think she did it quickly so I wouldn't have time to change my 
mind...knowing that was best for me and for Slinky).  She said it would take a 
few minutes for it to work, so they left and I just held him and cried and told 
him how much I loved him.  Thanked him for letting me share in his life and 
told him I was giving him the only gift I could at this point.  The room we 
were in had a beautiful painting of the bridge, so I showed it to him and told 
him that was where he was going.  
   
  They had put a sheep skin-like pad on the table and when they came back I 
laid him on that and put his head on his favorite pillow (he loved to knead on 
this sqush pillow I have).  She thought they might have to put a catheter in 
his front leg to get the needle in since his veins were so small, but she was 
able to do it in his back leg.  Once it was in, I just held him and cried and 
cried some more.  But I know he was in peace.
   
  He visited me this morning - as I was waking up I could hear the birds 
outside my window and I distinctly heard a meow (I remember thinking that I 
didn't know of a bird that meowed).  When it happened I got chills.  And when I 
woke up fully I realized that he was letting me know that he's happy and he 
loves me.  
   
  I'm actually doing much better than I expected to be.  After the vet 
appointment my friend took me out to dinner and then to ben and jerry's 
(self-medicating is always good!), which distracted me and that helped a lot.  
Of course when I got home I completely lost it, but I knew that would happen.  
I called dad and he was wondeful about telling me I did all the right things, 
that he loves me, and not to worry about paying all those bills back 'till some 
time in the future.  
   
  Today I relaxed in the morning and then went and got my hair cut (my stylist 
is dad's partner and the owner of the salon...so he has lots of experience 
with losing kitties) and did some shopping.  I got a stuffed kitty that looks 
just like Slinky, so he'll be my new sleeping buddy.  I thought I would lose it 
when I came home tonight, but I just choked up for a bit and really was okay.  
I know all the prayers and thoughts everyone is sending me are helping a ton!!! 
 I think half the population of the US is praying for me and checking on me!
   
  You guys have been absolutely amazing and having people to talk to who've 
been there and understand how this is has been an unbelievable 

Re: Slinky - Please add to the CLS

2007-03-28 Thread elizabeth trent

Marissa,
It just leaves such a big hole in your heart, I know.   They do let you
know.  It is so hard to let them go, but to let him pass the way he did was
a gift of kindess and caring.  I am so glad he came to let you know.  Love
and hugs - I am crying with you.

elizabeth


On 3/28/07, Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:


Hi all.  I guess I need to complete the updates on Slinky, huh?

Yes, he went to the bridge last night.  I was having second thoughts all
day yesterday...he, of course, perked up a bit, sat in the window sill again
(hadn't done that in ages), and was still drinking, eating, and breathing
fine.  I even started to wonder if his nose looked pinker.

But I decided to go to the vet appointment and ask her what she thought -
and that all important question, what would you do if he were your kitty?


Right before we left I think I finally understood that it really was
time.  It occurred to me that on Sunday he was very cuddly with me and
initiating some cuddle time on his own.  But yesterday he didn't want
anything to do with me.  And when we left the vet on Monday, someone said
he'd tell me when it was time, and I remember thinking, I think he already
has told me but I didn't want to believe it.  I think his spirit left on
Sunday...I think all that cuddling was him saying goodbye and beginning to
get ready for the journey.

So we went to the vet and I asked her if she thought his nose looked
pinker.  She looked at his gums, etc. and assured me that they were not.  I
was tempted to have her do another CBC, but that seemed like just adding to
the torture he'd already been through.  Without my even asking, the vet
said, If this were my cat, this is what I would be doing.  Not only is he
not getting any better, but he's actually getting steadily worse...and he's
just going to suffer if we wait much longer.  She of course pointed out
that I had the option of waiting, but that seemed like it would just drag
out the inevitable.  He was so weak the last couple days that he couldn't
even get back on the bed once he'd gotten down.

The vet explained everything in detail and even shaved some of his fur for
me since I'd forgotten I wanted a sample (good cuz what she got was way
better than anything I could've gotten with a scissors).  Then she gave him
the tranquilizer (I think she did it quickly so I wouldn't have time to
change my mind...knowing that was best for me and for Slinky).  She said it
would take a few minutes for it to work, so they left and I just held him
and cried and told him how much I loved him.  Thanked him for letting me
share in his life and told him I was giving him the only gift I could at
this point.  The room we were in had a beautiful painting of the bridge, so
I showed it to him and told him that was where he was going.

They had put a sheep skin-like pad on the table and when they came back I
laid him on that and put his head on his favorite pillow (he loved to knead
on this sqush pillow I have).  She thought they might have to put a
catheter in his front leg to get the needle in since his veins were so
small, but she was able to do it in his back leg.  Once it was in, I just
held him and cried and cried some more.  But I know he was in peace.

He visited me this morning - as I was waking up I could hear the birds
outside my window and I distinctly heard a meow (I remember thinking that I
didn't know of a bird that meowed).  When it happened I got chills.  And
when I woke up fully I realized that he was letting me know that he's happy
and he loves me.

I'm actually doing much better than I expected to be.  After the vet
appointment my friend took me out to dinner and then to ben and jerry's
(self-medicating is always good!), which distracted me and that helped a
lot.  Of course when I got home I completely lost it, but I knew that would
happen.  I called dad and he was wondeful about telling me I did all the
right things, that he loves me, and not to worry about paying all those
bills back 'till some time in the future.

Today I relaxed in the morning and then went and got my hair cut (my
stylist is dad's partner and the owner of the salon...so he has lots of
experience with losing kitties) and did some shopping.  I got a stuffed
kitty that looks just like Slinky, so he'll be my new sleeping buddy.  I
thought I would lose it when I came home tonight, but I just choked up for a
bit and really was okay.  I know all the prayers and thoughts everyone is
sending me are helping a ton!!!  I think half the population of the US is
praying for me and checking on me!

You guys have been absolutely amazing and having people to talk to who've
been there and understand how this is has been an unbelievable help!  Thank
you all so much for all your support!!!

I know this is kinda long, but since you've all been reading so much about
Slink, I thought you might want to know some of the details of his
crossing.  Thanks again for everything...I know I couldn't get through this
without 

Re: Slinky - Please add to the CLS

2007-03-28 Thread Lance

Marissa,

Thanks for letting us know about Slink. Even though I was expecting  
to read this, I prayed that the situation would turn around for him,  
somehow. Pretty normal to hope until the last, but you obviously did  
the right thing for him by helping him to leave. I'm glad you got a  
meow from him. Take care.


Lance


On Mar 28, 2007, at 10:04 PM, Marissa Johnson wrote:


Hi all.  I guess I need to complete the updates on Slinky, huh?

Yes, he went to the bridge last night.  I was having second  
thoughts all day yesterday...he, of course, perked up a bit, sat in  
the window sill again (hadn't done that in ages), and was still  
drinking, eating, and breathing fine.  I even started to wonder if  
his nose looked pinker.


But I decided to go to the vet appointment and ask her what she  
thought - and that all important question, what would you do if he  
were your kitty?


Right before we left I think I finally understood that it really  
was time.  It occurred to me that on Sunday he was very cuddly with  
me and initiating some cuddle time on his own.  But yesterday he  
didn't want anything to do with me.  And when we left the vet on  
Monday, someone said he'd tell me when it was time, and I remember  
thinking, I think he already has told me but I didn't want to  
believe it.  I think his spirit left on Sunday...I think all that  
cuddling was him saying goodbye and beginning to get ready for the  
journey.


So we went to the vet and I asked her if she thought his nose  
looked pinker.  She looked at his gums, etc. and assured me that  
they were not.  I was tempted to have her do another CBC, but that  
seemed like just adding to the torture he'd already been through.   
Without my even asking, the vet said, If this were my cat, this is  
what I would be doing.  Not only is he not getting any better, but  
he's actually getting steadily worse...and he's just going to  
suffer if we wait much longer.  She of course pointed out that I  
had the option of waiting, but that seemed like it would just drag  
out the inevitable.  He was so weak the last couple days that he  
couldn't even get back on the bed once he'd gotten down.


The vet explained everything in detail and even shaved some of his  
fur for me since I'd forgotten I wanted a sample (good cuz what she  
got was way better than anything I could've gotten with a  
scissors).  Then she gave him the tranquilizer (I think she did it  
quickly so I wouldn't have time to change my mind...knowing that  
was best for me and for Slinky).  She said it would take a few  
minutes for it to work, so they left and I just held him and cried  
and told him how much I loved him.  Thanked him for letting me  
share in his life and told him I was giving him the only gift I  
could at this point.  The room we were in had a beautiful painting  
of the bridge, so I showed it to him and told him that was where he  
was going.


They had put a sheep skin-like pad on the table and when they came  
back I laid him on that and put his head on his favorite pillow (he  
loved to knead on this sqush pillow I have).  She thought they  
might have to put a catheter in his front leg to get the needle in  
since his veins were so small, but she was able to do it in his  
back leg.  Once it was in, I just held him and cried and cried some  
more.  But I know he was in peace.


He visited me this morning - as I was waking up I could hear the  
birds outside my window and I distinctly heard a meow (I remember  
thinking that I didn't know of a bird that meowed).  When it  
happened I got chills.  And when I woke up fully I realized that he  
was letting me know that he's happy and he loves me.


I'm actually doing much better than I expected to be.  After the  
vet appointment my friend took me out to dinner and then to ben and  
jerry's (self-medicating is always good!), which distracted me and  
that helped a lot.  Of course when I got home I completely lost it,  
but I knew that would happen.  I called dad and he was wondeful  
about telling me I did all the right things, that he loves me, and  
not to worry about paying all those bills back 'till some time in  
the future.


Today I relaxed in the morning and then went and got my hair cut  
(my stylist is dad's partner and the owner of the salon...so he  
has lots of experience with losing kitties) and did some shopping.   
I got a stuffed kitty that looks just like Slinky, so he'll be my  
new sleeping buddy.  I thought I would lose it when I came home  
tonight, but I just choked up for a bit and really was okay.  I  
know all the prayers and thoughts everyone is sending me are  
helping a ton!!!  I think half the population of the US is praying  
for me and checking on me!


You guys have been absolutely amazing and having people to talk to  
who've been there and understand how this is has been an  
unbelievable help!  Thank you all so much for all your support!!!


I know this is kinda long, but since you've 

Re: Slinky - Please add to the CLS

2007-03-28 Thread Marylyn
Slinky knew just exactly what to do and gave you a special time with him.  






 If you have men who will 
exclude any of God's creatures
 from the shelter of compassion 
and pity, you will have men who 
 will deal likewise with their 
fellow man.
  St. Francis
  - Original Message - 
  From: Marissa Johnson 
  To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org 
  Sent: Wednesday, March 28, 2007 10:04 PM
  Subject: Slinky - Please add to the CLS


  Hi all.  I guess I need to complete the updates on Slinky, huh?  

  Yes, he went to the bridge last night.  I was having second thoughts all day 
yesterday...he, of course, perked up a bit, sat in the window sill again 
(hadn't done that in ages), and was still drinking, eating, and breathing fine. 
 I even started to wonder if his nose looked pinker.

  But I decided to go to the vet appointment and ask her what she thought - and 
that all important question, what would you do if he were your kitty?  

  Right before we left I think I finally understood that it really was time.  
It occurred to me that on Sunday he was very cuddly with me and initiating some 
cuddle time on his own.  But yesterday he didn't want anything to do with me.  
And when we left the vet on Monday, someone said he'd tell me when it was time, 
and I remember thinking, I think he already has told me but I didn't want to 
believe it.  I think his spirit left on Sunday...I think all that cuddling was 
him saying goodbye and beginning to get ready for the journey.

  So we went to the vet and I asked her if she thought his nose looked pinker.  
She looked at his gums, etc. and assured me that they were not.  I was tempted 
to have her do another CBC, but that seemed like just adding to the torture 
he'd already been through.  Without my even asking, the vet said, If this were 
my cat, this is what I would be doing.  Not only is he not getting any better, 
but he's actually getting steadily worse...and he's just going to suffer if we 
wait much longer.  She of course pointed out that I had the option of waiting, 
but that seemed like it would just drag out the inevitable.  He was so weak the 
last couple days that he couldn't even get back on the bed once he'd gotten 
down.

  The vet explained everything in detail and even shaved some of his fur for me 
since I'd forgotten I wanted a sample (good cuz what she got was way better 
than anything I could've gotten with a scissors).  Then she gave him the 
tranquilizer (I think she did it quickly so I wouldn't have time to change my 
mind...knowing that was best for me and for Slinky).  She said it would take a 
few minutes for it to work, so they left and I just held him and cried and told 
him how much I loved him.  Thanked him for letting me share in his life and 
told him I was giving him the only gift I could at this point.  The room we 
were in had a beautiful painting of the bridge, so I showed it to him and told 
him that was where he was going.  

  They had put a sheep skin-like pad on the table and when they came back I 
laid him on that and put his head on his favorite pillow (he loved to knead on 
this sqush pillow I have).  She thought they might have to put a catheter in 
his front leg to get the needle in since his veins were so small, but she was 
able to do it in his back leg.  Once it was in, I just held him and cried and 
cried some more.  But I know he was in peace.

  He visited me this morning - as I was waking up I could hear the birds 
outside my window and I distinctly heard a meow (I remember thinking that I 
didn't know of a bird that meowed).  When it happened I got chills.  And when I 
woke up fully I realized that he was letting me know that he's happy and he 
loves me.  

  I'm actually doing much better than I expected to be.  After the vet 
appointment my friend took me out to dinner and then to ben and jerry's 
(self-medicating is always good!), which distracted me and that helped a lot.  
Of course when I got home I completely lost it, but I knew that would happen.  
I called dad and he was wondeful about telling me I did all the right things, 
that he loves me, and not to worry about paying all those bills back 'till some 
time in the future.  

  Today I relaxed in the morning and then went and got my hair cut (my stylist 
is dad's partner and the owner of the salon...so he has lots of experience 
with losing kitties) and did some shopping.  I got a stuffed kitty that looks 
just like Slinky, so he'll be my new sleeping buddy.  I thought I would lose it 
when I came home tonight, but I just choked up for a bit and really was okay.  
I know all the prayers and thoughts everyone is sending me are helping a ton!!! 
 I think half the population of the US is praying for me and checking on me!

  You guys have been 

Re: Slinky - Please add to the CLS

2007-03-28 Thread [EMAIL PROTECTED]
I'm so sorry for your loss Marissa. Slinky had a wonderful life with you,
and that sounds like the best and most peaceful euthanasia I've ever heard
of - everything seemed to just flow and work out. I'm so glad it went
smoothly, and he was so at peace. You absolutely did the right thing. I know
it's really hard, but please take solace in the fact that you did the VERY
BEST for him, and he is now at peace. My thoughts go out to you.

Phaewryn


Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-27 Thread Gussies mom
Marissa -
   
  I think these kitties become so precious to us in part because so many people 
view FeLV kitties as throw aways. We feel extra protective because people don't 
understand why we go through this. All my FeLV kitties that have passed were my 
most precious babies. 
  I didn't want to go through this again, but the FeLV kitty I took from the 
shelter needed me.(BTW our shelter does NOT euthanise just because a cat tests 
positive :)). I turned in my healthy foster so I could take the FeLV one. I set 
myself up for heartache, but I put myself aside so he could be happy.
   
  The most important lesson you have learned is that these kitties have as much 
to give as any healthy animal. Anytime I hear someone talk about an FeLV kitty 
I encourage them to keep them and make them a part of their life. I want people 
to know these animals can live with this virus. It has become a mission for me. 
You are now someone who can spread the word so more of these beautiful babies 
can know life.
   
  I know your heart is aching, but you did an amazing thing - you gave this 
beautiful boy a happy life.

  Beth
  
Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
Nina (and EVERYONE!), thank you soo much!  It is so helpful to know 
that those doubts are normal and that it won't be an indication that I made the 
wrong decision.  I honestly don't know how I would get through this time 
without all of you!
   
  MC and Barb have been absolutely amazing chatting with me online and helping 
me sort things out - thanks!
   
  And all of you, your words of encouragement and support mean so much to me!  
   
  I know this is going to be near impossible and that it's going to hurt a 
lot...but somehow I'll manage to get through it.  Thank you for sharing this 
journey with me and for lending me your strength!
   
  I've been telling Slink all about my other pets who are waiting for him at 
the Rainbow Bridge... and telling him that I'm gonna help him get rid of his 
tired weak body and feel wonderful again.  I hope he'll carry a piece of my 
heart with me...and I know I'll have him in my heart forever.  
   
  He'll always be my most precious kitty...the kitty of my heart.  I truly 
don't think I understood the depths of love and responsibility I was capable of 
feeling until he came into my life.  He has taught me S MUCH (which I'll 
write more about someday) and I will cherish those lessons always.  I can only 
hope I've been able to show him the same depth of love, acceptance, and 
security he has shown me.
   
  Thank you again for being here with me.  I've got less than 24 hours now to 
be with my precious baby, so I'm going to make the most of it.  GLOW to you and 
your babies!
   
  MJ
   
  

Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
  Marissa,
I'm so sorry. My eyes filled with tears when I read your news this 
morning. I had such high hopes for a miracle for you and your Slinky 
boy. I know you haven't come to this decision lightly and that the only 
reason you would even consider this is to spare him any unnecessary 
suffering. MC has a quote that has given me comfort, something about it 
being better to let them go a day too soon than an hour too late. 

I have been on both sides of this terrible coin; waiting with hope only 
to have them suffer, and living afterward with the fear that I made the 
decision to help them cross too soon. No matter what we do in these 
circumstances we may be plagued by the possibility that we did the wrong 
thing, (the dreaded what ifs). I just wanted to let you know that I 
understand, and that I don't believe that it is possible to do the 
wrong thing when these hard decisions are made from our hearts. When 
we lose the hope of recovery, then letting them go is the last gift of 
love we can bestow on them. The last act of protection we can provide. 

I had such terrible regrets when I helped my Jazzy cross, but in the 
weeks that followed I found myself replacing my self-recriminations with 
acceptance. Even if I hadn't made the decision I did, she most likely 
would have been gone by then. Finally, I was able to forgive myself, 
not so much for the decisions I made, but for not being able to control 
the circumstances of our time together. I was able to forgive myself 
for not being able to save her. At least I can know that because I made 
the decision I did, when I did, her suffering was not prolonged. I know 
that she knows I will always love her, that I'm grateful for the time 
she graced my life and that no matter how many tears I shed, I will 
never be sorry I took her in. I can rest easier knowing that my sweet 
bottle baby, whom I had protected and nurtured from the time I became 
her surrogate mom, never had a moment of fear or want. Not even at the 
end of her all too short life.

I'm glad that you've made it possible to spend this time in Slinky's 
company. With how hard you've both fought, with all you and your family 
have done for your darling Slink, I'm praying that 

Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-27 Thread catatonya
Marissa,
   
  You and Slinky are in my prayers.
   
  tonya

Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
Hi all.  Thank you so much for all the GLOW and well wishes.  Slinky and I 
just got back from the vet (and a spin through the park).  I am sad to report 
that his HCT has dropped to just over 5!  It was a little above 7 on Friday.  
The vet didn't even want to give him the IR shot today because she said his 
platlettes (sp?) are so low that when they stick him in the vein he just 
bleeds.  She thought an IV injection would do more harm than good.
   
  She agrees with me that it's best to let him go.  She said she's never seen a 
cat with HCT that low who was still awake and breathing ok (which, amazingly, 
he is).  But she also indicated that as the RBC's drop, his organs will shut 
down and things will just get worse.
   
  Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this will happen.  I needed to bring him 
home right now so I'd have some time to say goodbye and do some of his favorite 
things.  But I have a HGE day at work tomorrow and am not sure I'll get 
through it if I put him down tonight.  Tomorrow night I have an evening meeting 
for work that I can't get out of!  So it might have to be Wednesday.  I don't 
know...I'd just die if he gets worse before then, but some things can't be 
rescheduled (I've already missed several days of work to take care of him and 
be with him).  
   
  He's pretty much the same...still breathing fine, eating, drinking, and using 
his box.  So I guess for now I'll just see how it goes.  They said they'd fit 
me in any time.  
   
  Thanks again for all your support!  I will be getting another kitty 
eventually (he is my only and my first as an adult!!)...but I don't think I'm 
up for another FeLV pos.  I'm thinking maybe one who's missing an eye or has a 
bad leg or is deaf or something.  Something that makes them difficult to adopt 
but isn't life threatening...I just don't think I can go through this again 
right now.
   
  I hope all your furkids are well.  I'll let you know when I need to add 
Slinky to the CLS.
   
  Thanks!
   
  MJ and Slinky

-
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Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-27 Thread Beth Noren

Marissa,
Thinking of you and Slinky at this difficult time, so glad that he was able
to spend his life with such a good friend at his side.  Peace and hugs to
you both,

Beth N.


On 3/26/07, Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:


Nina (and EVERYONE!), thank you soo much!  It is so helpful to know
that those doubts are normal and that it won't be an indication that I made
the wrong decision.  I honestly don't know how I would get through this time
without all of you!

MC and Barb have been absolutely amazing chatting with me online and
helping me sort things out - thanks!

And all of you, your words of encouragement and support mean so much to
me!

I know this is going to be near impossible and that it's going to hurt a
lot...but somehow I'll manage to get through it.  Thank you for sharing this
journey with me and for lending me your strength!

I've been telling Slink all about my other pets who are waiting for him at
the Rainbow Bridge... and telling him that I'm gonna help him get rid of his
tired weak body and feel wonderful again.  I hope he'll carry a piece of my
heart with me...and I know I'll have him in my heart forever.

He'll always be my most precious kitty...the kitty of my heart.  I truly
don't think I understood the depths of love and responsibility I was capable
of feeling until he came into my life.  He has taught me S MUCH (which
I'll write more about someday) and I will cherish those lessons always.  I
can only hope I've been able to show him the same depth of love, acceptance,
and security he has shown me.

Thank you again for being here with me.  I've got less than 24 hours now
to be with my precious baby, so I'm going to make the most of it.  GLOW to
you and your babies!

MJ



*Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED]* wrote:

Marissa,
I'm so sorry. My eyes filled with tears when I read your news this
morning. I had such high hopes for a miracle for you and your Slinky
boy. I know you haven't come to this decision lightly and that the only
reason you would even consider this is to spare him any unnecessary
suffering. MC has a quote that has given me comfort, something about it
being better to let them go a day too soon than an hour too late.

I have been on both sides of this terrible coin; waiting with hope only
to have them suffer, and living afterward with the fear that I made the
decision to help them cross too soon. No matter what we do in these
circumstances we may be plagued by the possibility that we did the wrong
thing, (the dreaded what ifs). I just wanted to let you know that I
understand, and that I don't believe that it is possible to do the
wrong thing when these hard decisions are made from our hearts. When
we lose the hope of recovery, then letting them go is the last gift of
love we can bestow on them. The last act of protection we can provide.

I had such terrible regrets when I helped my Jazzy cross, but in the
weeks that followed I found myself replacing my self-recriminations with
acceptance. Even if I hadn't made the decision I did, she most likely
would have been gone by then. Finally, I was able to forgive myself,
not so much for the decisions I made, but for not being able to control
the circumstances of our time together. I was able to forgive myself
for not being able to save her. At least I can know that because I made
the decision I did, when I did, her suffering was not prolonged. I know
that she knows I will always love her, that I'm grateful for the time
she graced my life and that no matter how many tears I shed, I will
never be sorry I took her in. I can rest easier knowing that my sweet
bottle baby, whom I had protected and nurtured from the time I became
her surrogate mom, never had a moment of fear or want. Not even at the
end of her all too short life.

I'm glad that you've made it possible to spend this time in Slinky's
company. With how hard you've both fought, with all you and your family
have done for your darling Slink, I'm praying that you will be spared
the torture of any what ifs. Hold that angel close and know that he
has worked his way into all our hearts.
Much love to you,
Nina

Marissa Johnson wrote:
 Thanks for that reminder Phaewryn. I've actually been able to
 postpone tomorrow's meeting (my boss had asked if I wanted to this
 morning because I've been sick, but like a dope I said I'd be
 okay!...but I was able to call everyone and tell them we're postponing
 it. I think it's for the best all the way around). So I've made the
 appointment for tomorrow evening at 6:40 - the last appointment of the
 day - and have found a friend to go with me.

 I can't believe I'm doing this. It seems so...FINAL. And I guess it
 is, but...wow. I know it's what's best but that doesn't make it any
 easier.

 Anyway, Slink and I have the rest of tonight and all of tomorrow to be
 with each other. Thanks again for all your support!

 MJ



 --
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Browse Top Cars by Green 

Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread wendy
Marissa,

My heart just dropped when I saw your subject line,
but was happy to hear that Slinky had not yet passed. 
I am the ever hopeful type, and usually refuse to give
up.  Some people call that stubborn; I call it
perseverance.  I just don't want to give up on Slinky
yet; he's fighting so hard.  I hope that over the next
few days, you are able to do all you need to do and
stay relatively sane.  If you need ANYTHING, just ask.
 We're here for you and Slinky.  Prayers going out for
Slinky and you.  Here's to a miracle turnaround...

:)
Wendy


--- Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED]
wrote:

 Hi all.  Thank you so much for all the GLOW and well
 wishes.  Slinky and I just got back from the vet
 (and a spin through the park).  I am sad to report
 that his HCT has dropped to just over 5!  It was a
 little above 7 on Friday.  The vet didn't even want
 to give him the IR shot today because she said his
 platlettes (sp?) are so low that when they stick him
 in the vein he just bleeds.  She thought an IV
 injection would do more harm than good.

   She agrees with me that it's best to let him go. 
 She said she's never seen a cat with HCT that low
 who was still awake and breathing ok (which,
 amazingly, he is).  But she also indicated that as
 the RBC's drop, his organs will shut down and things
 will just get worse.

   Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this will happen.
  I needed to bring him home right now so I'd have
 some time to say goodbye and do some of his favorite
 things.  But I have a HGE day at work tomorrow
 and am not sure I'll get through it if I put him
 down tonight.  Tomorrow night I have an evening
 meeting for work that I can't get out of!  So it
 might have to be Wednesday.  I don't know...I'd just
 die if he gets worse before then, but some things
 can't be rescheduled (I've already missed several
 days of work to take care of him and be with him).  

   He's pretty much the same...still breathing fine,
 eating, drinking, and using his box.  So I guess for
 now I'll just see how it goes.  They said they'd fit
 me in any time.  

   Thanks again for all your support!  I will be
 getting another kitty eventually (he is my only and
 my first as an adult!!)...but I don't think I'm up
 for another FeLV pos.  I'm thinking maybe one who's
 missing an eye or has a bad leg or is deaf or
 something.  Something that makes them difficult to
 adopt but isn't life threatening...I just don't
 think I can go through this again right now.

   I hope all your furkids are well.  I'll let you
 know when I need to add Slinky to the CLS.

   Thanks!

   MJ and Slinky
 
  
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RE: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread MacKenzie, Kerry N.
Dear Marissa, 
Your Slinky is truly amazing, a walking miracle, defying all the odds.
Enjoy every possible moment with your brave little trooper. Try not to
even think of his passing. I'm glad he has such an upbeat, loving mom.
big hugs to you both, Kerry
-Original Message-
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Marissa
Johnson
Sent: Monday, March 26, 2007 12:03 PM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: Slinky - Sad News


Hi all.  Thank you so much for all the GLOW and well wishes.  Slinky and
I just got back from the vet (and a spin through the park).  I am sad to
report that his HCT has dropped to just over 5!  It was a little above 7
on Friday.  The vet didn't even want to give him the IR shot today
because she said his platlettes (sp?) are so low that when they stick
him in the vein he just bleeds.  She thought an IV injection would do
more harm than good.
 
She agrees with me that it's best to let him go.  She said she's never
seen a cat with HCT that low who was still awake and breathing ok
(which, amazingly, he is).  But she also indicated that as the RBC's
drop, his organs will shut down and things will just get worse.
 
Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this will happen.  I needed to bring
him home right now so I'd have some time to say goodbye and do some of
his favorite things.  But I have a HGE day at work tomorrow and am
not sure I'll get through it if I put him down tonight.  Tomorrow night
I have an evening meeting for work that I can't get out of!  So it might
have to be Wednesday.  I don't know...I'd just die if he gets worse
before then, but some things can't be rescheduled (I've already missed
several days of work to take care of him and be with him).  
 
He's pretty much the same...still breathing fine, eating, drinking, and
using his box.  So I guess for now I'll just see how it goes.  They said
they'd fit me in any time.  
 
Thanks again for all your support!  I will be getting another kitty
eventually (he is my only and my first as an adult!!)...but I don't
think I'm up for another FeLV pos.  I'm thinking maybe one who's missing
an eye or has a bad leg or is deaf or something.  Something that makes
them difficult to adopt but isn't life threatening...I just don't think
I can go through this again right now.
 
I hope all your furkids are well.  I'll let you know when I need to add
Slinky to the CLS.
 
Thanks!
 
MJ and Slinky

  _  

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Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread Kelly L

At 10:02 AM 3/26/2007, you wrote:


I am so very sorry about SLinky and all the sadness and pain right 
now. My thought will be with you...and hope for a gently journey into 
the light.

Kelly


Hi all.  Thank you so much for all the GLOW and well wishes.  Slinky 
and I just got back from the vet (and a spin through the park).  I 
am sad to report that his HCT has dropped to just over 5!  It was a 
little above 7 on Friday.  The vet didn't even want to give him the 
IR shot today because she said his platlettes (sp?) are so low that 
when they stick him in the vein he just bleeds.  She thought an IV 
injection would do more harm than good.


She agrees with me that it's best to let him go.  She said she's 
never seen a cat with HCT that low who was still awake and breathing 
ok (which, amazingly, he is).  But she also indicated that as the 
RBC's drop, his organs will shut down and things will just get worse.


Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this will happen.  I needed to 
bring him home right now so I'd have some time to say goodbye and do 
some of his favorite things.  But I have a HGE day at work 
tomorrow and am not sure I'll get through it if I put him down 
tonight.  Tomorrow night I have an evening meeting for work that I 
can't get out of!  So it might have to be Wednesday.  I don't 
know...I'd just die if he gets worse before then, but some things 
can't be rescheduled (I've already missed several days of work to 
take care of him and be with him).


He's pretty much the same...still breathing fine, eating, drinking, 
and using his box.  So I guess for now I'll just see how it 
goes.  They said they'd fit me in any time.


Thanks again for all your support!  I will be getting another kitty 
eventually (he is my only and my first as an adult!!)...but I don't 
think I'm up for another FeLV pos.  I'm thinking maybe one who's 
missing an eye or has a bad leg or is deaf or something.  Something 
that makes them difficult to adopt but isn't life threatening...I 
just don't think I can go through this again right now.


I hope all your furkids are well.  I'll let you know when I need to 
add Slinky to the CLS.


Thanks!

MJ and Slinky


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Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread Leslie Lawther

*Marissa... every loss on this list feels like I've lost one of my own!  I'm
so, so sorry... hugs to you and to Slinky*
*Leslie =^..^=*


On 3/26/07, MacKenzie, Kerry N. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:


 Dear Marissa,
Your Slinky is truly amazing, a walking miracle, defying all the odds.
Enjoy every possible moment with your brave little trooper. Try not to even
think of his passing. I'm glad he has such an upbeat, loving mom. big hugs
to you both, Kerry
 -Original Message-
*From:* [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:
[EMAIL PROTECTED] *On Behalf Of *Marissa Johnson
*Sent:* Monday, March 26, 2007 12:03 PM
*To:* felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
*Subject:* Slinky - Sad News

Hi all.  Thank you so much for all the GLOW and well wishes.  Slinky and I
just got back from the vet (and a spin through the park).  I am sad to
report that his HCT has dropped to just over 5!  It was a little above 7 on
Friday.  The vet didn't even want to give him the IR shot today because she
said his platlettes (sp?) are so low that when they stick him in the vein he
just bleeds.  She thought an IV injection would do more harm than good.

She agrees with me that it's best to let him go.  She said she's never
seen a cat with HCT that low who was still awake and breathing ok (which,
amazingly, he is).  But she also indicated that as the RBC's drop, his
organs will shut down and things will just get worse.

Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this will happen.  I needed to bring him
home right now so I'd have some time to say goodbye and do some of his
favorite things.  But I have a HGE day at work tomorrow and am not sure
I'll get through it if I put him down tonight.  Tomorrow night I have an
evening meeting for work that I can't get out of!  So it might have to be
Wednesday.  I don't know...I'd just die if he gets worse before then, but
some things can't be rescheduled (I've already missed several days of work
to take care of him and be with him).

He's pretty much the same...still breathing fine, eating, drinking, and
using his box.  So I guess for now I'll just see how it goes.  They said
they'd fit me in any time.

Thanks again for all your support!  I will be getting another kitty
eventually (he is my only and my first as an adult!!)...but I don't think
I'm up for another FeLV pos.  I'm thinking maybe one who's missing an eye or
has a bad leg or is deaf or something.  Something that makes them difficult
to adopt but isn't life threatening...I just don't think I can go through
this again right now.

I hope all your furkids are well.  I'll let you know when I need to add
Slinky to the CLS.

Thanks!

MJ and Slinky

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patch, or an improved social condition - that is to have succeeded.  That
only one life breathed easier because you lived - that is success.
---Ralph Waldo Emerson


Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread elizabeth trent

Marissa, my heart hurts with you.

elizabeth


On 3/26/07, Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:


Hi all.  Thank you so much for all the GLOW and well wishes.  Slinky and I
just got back from the vet (and a spin through the park).  I am sad to
report that his HCT has dropped to just over 5!  It was a little above 7 on
Friday.  The vet didn't even want to give him the IR shot today because she
said his platlettes (sp?) are so low that when they stick him in the vein he
just bleeds.  She thought an IV injection would do more harm than good.

She agrees with me that it's best to let him go.  She said she's never
seen a cat with HCT that low who was still awake and breathing ok (which,
amazingly, he is).  But she also indicated that as the RBC's drop, his
organs will shut down and things will just get worse.

Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this will happen.  I needed to bring him
home right now so I'd have some time to say goodbye and do some of his
favorite things.  But I have a HGE day at work tomorrow and am not sure
I'll get through it if I put him down tonight.  Tomorrow night I have an
evening meeting for work that I can't get out of!  So it might have to be
Wednesday.  I don't know...I'd just die if he gets worse before then, but
some things can't be rescheduled (I've already missed several days of work
to take care of him and be with him).

He's pretty much the same...still breathing fine, eating, drinking, and
using his box.  So I guess for now I'll just see how it goes.  They said
they'd fit me in any time.

Thanks again for all your support!  I will be getting another kitty
eventually (he is my only and my first as an adult!!)...but I don't think
I'm up for another FeLV pos.  I'm thinking maybe one who's missing an eye or
has a bad leg or is deaf or something.  Something that makes them difficult
to adopt but isn't life threatening...I just don't think I can go through
this again right now.

I hope all your furkids are well.  I'll let you know when I need to add
Slinky to the CLS.

Thanks!

MJ and Slinky

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Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread Kelley Saveika

Marissa,

I'm so sorry.

kelley


On 3/26/07, elizabeth trent [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:


Marissa, my heart hurts with you.

elizabeth


 On 3/26/07, Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:

 Hi all.  Thank you so much for all the GLOW and well wishes.  Slinky and
 I just got back from the vet (and a spin through the park).  I am sad to
 report that his HCT has dropped to just over 5!  It was a little above 7 on
 Friday.  The vet didn't even want to give him the IR shot today because she
 said his platlettes (sp?) are so low that when they stick him in the vein he
 just bleeds.  She thought an IV injection would do more harm than good.

 She agrees with me that it's best to let him go.  She said she's never
 seen a cat with HCT that low who was still awake and breathing ok (which,
 amazingly, he is).  But she also indicated that as the RBC's drop, his
 organs will shut down and things will just get worse.

 Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this will happen.  I needed to bring
 him home right now so I'd have some time to say goodbye and do some of his
 favorite things.  But I have a HGE day at work tomorrow and am not sure
 I'll get through it if I put him down tonight.  Tomorrow night I have an
 evening meeting for work that I can't get out of!  So it might have to be
 Wednesday.  I don't know...I'd just die if he gets worse before then, but
 some things can't be rescheduled (I've already missed several days of work
 to take care of him and be with him).

 He's pretty much the same...still breathing fine, eating, drinking, and
 using his box.  So I guess for now I'll just see how it goes.  They said
 they'd fit me in any time.

 Thanks again for all your support!  I will be getting another kitty
 eventually (he is my only and my first as an adult!!)...but I don't think
 I'm up for another FeLV pos.  I'm thinking maybe one who's missing an eye or
 has a bad leg or is deaf or something.  Something that makes them difficult
 to adopt but isn't life threatening...I just don't think I can go through
 this again right now.

 I hope all your furkids are well.  I'll let you know when I need to add
 Slinky to the CLS.

 Thanks!

 MJ and Slinky

 --
 8:00? 8:25? 8:40? Find a flick in no time
 with theYahoo! Search movie showtime shortcut.






--
Rescuties - Saving the world, one cat at a time.

http://www.rescuties.org

Vist the Rescuties store and save a kitty life!

http://astore.amazon.com/rescuties-20

Please help Joey!
http://rescuties.chipin.com/joey-autoimmune-hemolytic-anemia


Re: SLINKY

2007-03-26 Thread Marissa Johnson
Aw.  Glad you liked his site.  Unforunately, though, he's actually only 11 
months and I've only had him for 8 months!!!  I had to set his age as over 14 
to give him a myspace, so i just made it 20 for fun...and maybe wishful 
thinking. 
   
  Thanks again!!
   
  MJ

Kelly L [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
  I just visited his site, WHat a very very special boy,,,He looks just 
like MAXX my FELV boy and what a tribute to the wonderful care that 
he lived such a very very long contented life, My heart really goes 
out to you as this is the decision I had to make twice this month and 
I am still not recovered,
We are here 24 hours a day for you
Kelly




 
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Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread dede hicken
My thoughts and prayers are with you both.

Dede and Ki

--- Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED]
wrote:

 Hi all.  Thank you so much for all the GLOW and well
 wishes.  Slinky and I just got back from the vet
 (and a spin through the park).  I am sad to report
 that his HCT has dropped to just over 5!  It was a
 little above 7 on Friday.  The vet didn't even want
 to give him the IR shot today because she said his
 platlettes (sp?) are so low that when they stick him
 in the vein he just bleeds.  She thought an IV
 injection would do more harm than good.

   She agrees with me that it's best to let him go. 
 She said she's never seen a cat with HCT that low
 who was still awake and breathing ok (which,
 amazingly, he is).  But she also indicated that as
 the RBC's drop, his organs will shut down and things
 will just get worse.

   Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this will happen.
  I needed to bring him home right now so I'd have
 some time to say goodbye and do some of his favorite
 things.  But I have a HGE day at work tomorrow
 and am not sure I'll get through it if I put him
 down tonight.  Tomorrow night I have an evening
 meeting for work that I can't get out of!  So it
 might have to be Wednesday.  I don't know...I'd just
 die if he gets worse before then, but some things
 can't be rescheduled (I've already missed several
 days of work to take care of him and be with him).  

   He's pretty much the same...still breathing fine,
 eating, drinking, and using his box.  So I guess for
 now I'll just see how it goes.  They said they'd fit
 me in any time.  

   Thanks again for all your support!  I will be
 getting another kitty eventually (he is my only and
 my first as an adult!!)...but I don't think I'm up
 for another FeLV pos.  I'm thinking maybe one who's
 missing an eye or has a bad leg or is deaf or
 something.  Something that makes them difficult to
 adopt but isn't life threatening...I just don't
 think I can go through this again right now.

   I hope all your furkids are well.  I'll let you
 know when I need to add Slinky to the CLS.

   Thanks!

   MJ and Slinky
 
  
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  with theYahoo! Search movie showtime shortcut.


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of your God
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Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread Lance
Marissa,

I'm saddened to read that Slinky is so anemic and not doing well. It's
wonderful that you've be able to spend some time with him doing things
he likes, and that he is somehow managing to hang in there. I'm also
sorry that you have a tough day at work tomorrow right after what may be
his last night with you. You two will be in my thoughts and prayers. He
looks like a very sweet boy. Thank you for posting the pics.

Lance


On Mon, 26 Mar 2007 10:02:44 -0700 (PDT), Marissa Johnson
[EMAIL PROTECTED] said:
 Hi all.  Thank you so much for all the GLOW and well wishes.  Slinky and
 I just got back from the vet (and a spin through the park).  I am sad to
 report that his HCT has dropped to just over 5!  It was a little above 7
 on Friday.  The vet didn't even want to give him the IR shot today
 because she said his platlettes (sp?) are so low that when they stick him
 in the vein he just bleeds.  She thought an IV injection would do more
 harm than good.

   She agrees with me that it's best to let him go.  She said she's never
   seen a cat with HCT that low who was still awake and breathing ok
   (which, amazingly, he is).  But she also indicated that as the RBC's
   drop, his organs will shut down and things will just get worse.

   Unfortunately, I'm not sure when this will happen.  I needed to bring
   him home right now so I'd have some time to say goodbye and do some of
   his favorite things.  But I have a HGE day at work tomorrow and am
   not sure I'll get through it if I put him down tonight.  Tomorrow night
   I have an evening meeting for work that I can't get out of!  So it
   might have to be Wednesday.  I don't know...I'd just die if he gets
   worse before then, but some things can't be rescheduled (I've already
   missed several days of work to take care of him and be with him).  

   He's pretty much the same...still breathing fine, eating, drinking, and
   using his box.  So I guess for now I'll just see how it goes.  They
   said they'd fit me in any time.  

   Thanks again for all your support!  I will be getting another kitty
   eventually (he is my only and my first as an adult!!)...but I don't
   think I'm up for another FeLV pos.  I'm thinking maybe one who's
   missing an eye or has a bad leg or is deaf or something.  Something
   that makes them difficult to adopt but isn't life threatening...I just
   don't think I can go through this again right now.

   I hope all your furkids are well.  I'll let you know when I need to add
   Slinky to the CLS.

   Thanks!

   MJ and Slinky
 
  
 -
 8:00? 8:25? 8:40?  Find a flick in no time
  with theYahoo! Search movie showtime shortcut.
-- 
  Lance Linimon
  [EMAIL PROTECTED]




Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread [EMAIL PROTECTED]
When I lost Moogie, I had to drop her off at the vet and go to work. They
called and told me that she was dying and there wasn't anything else to
do... I rushed back over, but only got about 30 minutes with her. I wish I
would have blown off work and spent that morning with her. You can't get
that time back.

My thoughts are with you.

Phaewryn

http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html
Special Needs Cat Resources


Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread Marissa Johnson
Thanks for that reminder Phaewryn.  I've actually been able to postpone 
tomorrow's meeting (my boss had asked if I wanted to this morning because I've 
been sick, but like a dope I said I'd be okay!...but I was able to call 
everyone and tell them we're postponing it.  I think it's for the best all the 
way around).  So I've made the appointment for tomorrow evening at 6:40 - the 
last appointment of the day - and have found a friend to go with me.
   
  I can't believe I'm doing this.  It seems so...FINAL.  And I guess it is, 
but...wow.  I know it's what's best but that doesn't make it any easier.
   
  Anyway, Slink and I have the rest of tonight and all of tomorrow to be with 
each other.  Thanks again for all your support!
   
  MJ

[EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
  When I lost Moogie, I had to drop her off at the vet and go to work. 
They called and told me that she was dying and there wasn't anything else to 
do... I rushed back over, but only got about 30 minutes with her. I wish I 
would have blown off work and spent that morning with her. You can't get that 
time back.
   
  My thoughts are with you. 
  
Phaewryn
   
  http://ucat.us/domesticcatlinks.html 
Special Needs Cat Resources


 
-
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Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread Nina

Marissa,
I'm so sorry.  My eyes filled with tears when I read your news this 
morning.  I had such high hopes for a miracle for you and your Slinky 
boy.  I know you haven't come to this decision lightly and that the only 
reason you would even consider this is to spare him any unnecessary 
suffering.  MC has a quote that has given me comfort, something about it 
being better to let them go a day too soon than an hour too late. 

I have been on both sides of this terrible coin; waiting with hope only 
to have them suffer, and living afterward with the fear that I made the 
decision to help them cross too soon.  No matter what we do in these 
circumstances we may be plagued by the possibility that we did the wrong 
thing, (the dreaded what ifs).  I just wanted to let you know that I 
understand, and that I don't believe that it is possible to do the 
wrong thing when these hard decisions are made from our hearts.  When 
we lose the hope of recovery, then letting them go is the last gift of 
love we can bestow on them.  The last act of protection we can provide.

I had such terrible regrets when I helped my Jazzy cross, but in the 
weeks that followed I found myself replacing my self-recriminations with 
acceptance.  Even if I hadn't made the decision I did, she most likely 
would have been gone by then.  Finally, I was able to forgive myself, 
not so much for the decisions I made, but for not being able to control 
the circumstances of our time together.  I was able to forgive myself 
for not being able to save her.  At least I can know that because I made 
the decision I did, when I did, her suffering was not prolonged.  I know 
that she knows I will always love her, that I'm grateful for the time 
she graced my life and that no matter how many tears I shed, I will 
never be sorry I took her in.  I can rest easier knowing that my sweet 
bottle baby, whom I had protected and nurtured from the time I became 
her surrogate mom, never had a moment of fear or want.  Not even at the 
end of her all too short life.


I'm glad that you've made it possible to spend this time in Slinky's 
company.  With how hard you've both fought, with all you and your family 
have done for your darling Slink, I'm praying that you will be spared 
the torture of any what ifs.  Hold that angel close and know that he 
has worked his way into all our hearts. 
Much love to you,

Nina

Marissa Johnson wrote:
Thanks for that reminder Phaewryn.  I've actually been able to 
postpone tomorrow's meeting (my boss had asked if I wanted to this 
morning because I've been sick, but like a dope I said I'd be 
okay!...but I was able to call everyone and tell them we're postponing 
it.  I think it's for the best all the way around).  So I've made the 
appointment for tomorrow evening at 6:40 - the last appointment of the 
day - and have found a friend to go with me.
 
I can't believe I'm doing this.  It seems so...FINAL.  And I guess it 
is, but...wow.  I know it's what's best but that doesn't make it any 
easier.
 
Anyway, Slink and I have the rest of tonight and all of tomorrow to be 
with each other.  Thanks again for all your support!
 
MJ





Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread TenHouseCats

beautiful, nina.

On 3/26/07, Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:


Marissa,
I'm so sorry.  My eyes filled with tears when I read your news this
morning.  I had such high hopes for a miracle for you and your Slinky
boy.  I know you haven't come to this decision lightly and that the only
reason you would even consider this is to spare him any unnecessary
suffering.  MC has a quote that has given me comfort, something about it
being better to let them go a day too soon than an hour too late.

I have been on both sides of this terrible coin; waiting with hope only
to have them suffer, and living afterward with the fear that I made the
decision to help them cross too soon.  No matter what we do in these
circumstances we may be plagued by the possibility that we did the wrong
thing, (the dreaded what ifs).  I just wanted to let you know that I
understand, and that I don't believe that it is possible to do the
wrong thing when these hard decisions are made from our hearts.  When
we lose the hope of recovery, then letting them go is the last gift of
love we can bestow on them.  The last act of protection we can provide.

I had such terrible regrets when I helped my Jazzy cross, but in the
weeks that followed I found myself replacing my self-recriminations with
acceptance.  Even if I hadn't made the decision I did, she most likely
would have been gone by then.  Finally, I was able to forgive myself,
not so much for the decisions I made, but for not being able to control
the circumstances of our time together.  I was able to forgive myself
for not being able to save her.  At least I can know that because I made
the decision I did, when I did, her suffering was not prolonged.  I know
that she knows I will always love her, that I'm grateful for the time
she graced my life and that no matter how many tears I shed, I will
never be sorry I took her in.  I can rest easier knowing that my sweet
bottle baby, whom I had protected and nurtured from the time I became
her surrogate mom, never had a moment of fear or want.  Not even at the
end of her all too short life.

I'm glad that you've made it possible to spend this time in Slinky's
company.  With how hard you've both fought, with all you and your family
have done for your darling Slink, I'm praying that you will be spared
the torture of any what ifs.  Hold that angel close and know that he
has worked his way into all our hearts.
Much love to you,
Nina

Marissa Johnson wrote:
 Thanks for that reminder Phaewryn.  I've actually been able to
 postpone tomorrow's meeting (my boss had asked if I wanted to this
 morning because I've been sick, but like a dope I said I'd be
 okay!...but I was able to call everyone and tell them we're postponing
 it.  I think it's for the best all the way around).  So I've made the
 appointment for tomorrow evening at 6:40 - the last appointment of the
 day - and have found a friend to go with me.

 I can't believe I'm doing this.  It seems so...FINAL.  And I guess it
 is, but...wow.  I know it's what's best but that doesn't make it any
 easier.

 Anyway, Slink and I have the rest of tonight and all of tomorrow to be
 with each other.  Thanks again for all your support!

 MJ






--
Spay  Neuter Your Neighbors!
Maybe That'll Make The Difference

MaryChristine

AIM / YAHOO: TenHouseCats
MSN: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
ICQ: 289856892


Re: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread Marissa Johnson
Nina (and EVERYONE!), thank you soo much!  It is so helpful to know that 
those doubts are normal and that it won't be an indication that I made the 
wrong decision.  I honestly don't know how I would get through this time 
without all of you!
   
  MC and Barb have been absolutely amazing chatting with me online and helping 
me sort things out - thanks!
   
  And all of you, your words of encouragement and support mean so much to me!  
   
  I know this is going to be near impossible and that it's going to hurt a 
lot...but somehow I'll manage to get through it.  Thank you for sharing this 
journey with me and for lending me your strength!
   
  I've been telling Slink all about my other pets who are waiting for him at 
the Rainbow Bridge... and telling him that I'm gonna help him get rid of his 
tired weak body and feel wonderful again.  I hope he'll carry a piece of my 
heart with me...and I know I'll have him in my heart forever.  
   
  He'll always be my most precious kitty...the kitty of my heart.  I truly 
don't think I understood the depths of love and responsibility I was capable of 
feeling until he came into my life.  He has taught me S MUCH (which I'll 
write more about someday) and I will cherish those lessons always.  I can only 
hope I've been able to show him the same depth of love, acceptance, and 
security he has shown me.
   
  Thank you again for being here with me.  I've got less than 24 hours now to 
be with my precious baby, so I'm going to make the most of it.  GLOW to you and 
your babies!
   
  MJ
   
   

Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
  Marissa,
I'm so sorry. My eyes filled with tears when I read your news this 
morning. I had such high hopes for a miracle for you and your Slinky 
boy. I know you haven't come to this decision lightly and that the only 
reason you would even consider this is to spare him any unnecessary 
suffering. MC has a quote that has given me comfort, something about it 
being better to let them go a day too soon than an hour too late. 

I have been on both sides of this terrible coin; waiting with hope only 
to have them suffer, and living afterward with the fear that I made the 
decision to help them cross too soon. No matter what we do in these 
circumstances we may be plagued by the possibility that we did the wrong 
thing, (the dreaded what ifs). I just wanted to let you know that I 
understand, and that I don't believe that it is possible to do the 
wrong thing when these hard decisions are made from our hearts. When 
we lose the hope of recovery, then letting them go is the last gift of 
love we can bestow on them. The last act of protection we can provide. 

I had such terrible regrets when I helped my Jazzy cross, but in the 
weeks that followed I found myself replacing my self-recriminations with 
acceptance. Even if I hadn't made the decision I did, she most likely 
would have been gone by then. Finally, I was able to forgive myself, 
not so much for the decisions I made, but for not being able to control 
the circumstances of our time together. I was able to forgive myself 
for not being able to save her. At least I can know that because I made 
the decision I did, when I did, her suffering was not prolonged. I know 
that she knows I will always love her, that I'm grateful for the time 
she graced my life and that no matter how many tears I shed, I will 
never be sorry I took her in. I can rest easier knowing that my sweet 
bottle baby, whom I had protected and nurtured from the time I became 
her surrogate mom, never had a moment of fear or want. Not even at the 
end of her all too short life.

I'm glad that you've made it possible to spend this time in Slinky's 
company. With how hard you've both fought, with all you and your family 
have done for your darling Slink, I'm praying that you will be spared 
the torture of any what ifs. Hold that angel close and know that he 
has worked his way into all our hearts. 
Much love to you,
Nina

Marissa Johnson wrote:
 Thanks for that reminder Phaewryn. I've actually been able to 
 postpone tomorrow's meeting (my boss had asked if I wanted to this 
 morning because I've been sick, but like a dope I said I'd be 
 okay!...but I was able to call everyone and tell them we're postponing 
 it. I think it's for the best all the way around). So I've made the 
 appointment for tomorrow evening at 6:40 - the last appointment of the 
 day - and have found a friend to go with me.
 
 I can't believe I'm doing this. It seems so...FINAL. And I guess it 
 is, but...wow. I know it's what's best but that doesn't make it any 
 easier.
 
 Anyway, Slink and I have the rest of tonight and all of tomorrow to be 
 with each other. Thanks again for all your support!
 
 MJ




 
-
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 Browse Top Cars by Green Rating at Yahoo! Autos' Green Center.  

RE: Slinky - Sad News

2007-03-26 Thread Diane Rosenfeldt
Marissa -- 
 
I know how bittersweet this next day will be for you.  Comfort vibes to you.
Slinky knows how very deeply he is loved.  How could he not when it shines
out of every word you write?  We will look forward to your Slink stories
when you are ready.
 
Diane R.

  _  

From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Marissa Johnson
Sent: Monday, March 26, 2007 6:17 PM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: Re: Slinky - Sad News


Nina (and EVERYONE!), thank you soo much!  It is so helpful to know that
those doubts are normal and that it won't be an indication that I made the
wrong decision.  I honestly don't know how I would get through this time
without all of you!
 
MC and Barb have been absolutely amazing chatting with me online and helping
me sort things out - thanks!
 
And all of you, your words of encouragement and support mean so much to me!

 
I know this is going to be near impossible and that it's going to hurt a
lot...but somehow I'll manage to get through it.  Thank you for sharing this
journey with me and for lending me your strength!
 
I've been telling Slink all about my other pets who are waiting for him at
the Rainbow Bridge... and telling him that I'm gonna help him get rid of his
tired weak body and feel wonderful again.  I hope he'll carry a piece of my
heart with me...and I know I'll have him in my heart forever.  
 
He'll always be my most precious kitty...the kitty of my heart.  I truly
don't think I understood the depths of love and responsibility I was capable
of feeling until he came into my life.  He has taught me S MUCH (which
I'll write more about someday) and I will cherish those lessons always.  I
can only hope I've been able to show him the same depth of love, acceptance,
and security he has shown me.
 
Thank you again for being here with me.  I've got less than 24 hours now to
be with my precious baby, so I'm going to make the most of it.  GLOW to you
and your babies!
 
MJ
 


Nina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:

Marissa,
I'm so sorry. My eyes filled with tears when I read your news this 
morning. I had such high hopes for a miracle for you and your Slinky 
boy. I know you haven't come to this decision lightly and that the only 
reason you would even consider this is to spare him any unnecessary 
suffering. MC has a quote that has given me comfort, something about it 
being better to let them go a day too soon than an hour too late. 

I have been on both sides of this terrible coin; waiting with hope only 
to have them suffer, and living afterward with the fear that I made the 
decision to help them cross too soon. No matter what we do in these 
circumstances we may be plagued by the possibility that we did the wrong 
thing, (the dreaded what ifs). I just wanted to let you know that I 
understand, and that I don't believe that it is possible to do the 
wrong thing when these hard decisions are made from our hearts. When 
we lose the hope of recovery, then letting them go is the last gift of 
love we can bestow on them. The last act of protection we can provide. 

I had such terrible regrets when I helped my Jazzy cross, but in the 
weeks that followed I found myself replacing my self-recriminations with 
acceptance. Even if I hadn't made the decision I did, she most likely 
would have been gone by then. Finally, I was able to forgive myself, 
not so much for the decisions I made, but for not being able to control 
the circumstances of our time together. I was able to forgive myself 
for not being able to save her. At least I can know that because I made 
the decision I did, when I did, her suffering was not prolonged. I know 
that she knows I will always love her, that I'm grateful for the time 
she graced my life and that no matter how many tears I shed, I will 
never be sorry I took her in. I can rest easier knowing that my sweet 
bottle baby, whom I had protected and nurtured from the time I became 
her surrogate mom, never had a moment of fear or want. Not even at the 
end of her all too short life.

I'm glad that you've made it possible to spend this time in Slinky's 
company. With how hard you've both fought, with all you and your family 
have done for your darling Slink, I'm praying that you will be spared 
the torture of any what ifs. Hold that angel close and know that he 
has worked his way into all our hearts. 
Much love to you,
Nina

Marissa Johnson wrote:
 Thanks for that reminder Phaewryn. I've actually been able to 
 postpone tomorrow's meeting (my boss had asked if I wanted to this 
 morning because I've been sick, but like a dope I said I'd be 
 okay!...but I was able to call everyone and tell them we're postponing 
 it. I think it's for the best all the way around). So I've made the 
 appointment for tomorrow evening at 6:40 - the last appointment of the 
 day - and have found a friend to go with me.
 
 I can't believe I'm doing this. It seems so...FINAL. And I guess it 
 is, but...wow. I know it's what's best

Re: Slinky is Home...but Feverish again

2007-03-20 Thread Belinda

MJ,
  I'm not sure why nobody has suggested trying to find out what is 
causing the anemia, and I guarantee you clavamox and baytril will not 
take care of the heamobartonella as well as the doxy if they will at 
all.  The tetracycline group of drugs is what is need to treat hemo.


Here are some documents to back this up:

To treat Haemobartonella Felis, antibiotics such as tetracycline, 
oxytetracycline, or doxycycline are given for three weeks. Although it 
may seem contradictory, in cats with a rapid course of disease, large 
doses of prednisolone (a steroid) may sometimes be given to suppress 
the destruction of the red blood cells by the body. In some animals, 
it is necessary to give one or multiple transfusions. A glucose rich 
intravenous fluid may be life saving in very weak and debilitated 
pets. Some cats cannot tolerate tetracycline and will develop fever, 
vomiting, or diarrhea. If this occurs, the veterinarian may lower the 
dosage or choose another antibiotic. Only the veterinarian should make 
changes in treatment.

http://www.geocities.com/pvis1960/hemobartonella.html

Specific treatment for feline infectious anemia includes tetracycline 
antibiotics and prednisone. Patients may require supportive care, 
including blood transfusion. Although treatment does not eliminate the 
infection completely, cats that survive are thought to have a good 
long-term outlook.

http://www.missionmedvet.com/encyclopedia/haemobartonellosis.htm


*What are the symptoms of haemobartonellosis?*

Symptoms vary depending on the  number of red blood cells infected, 
the stage of the parasitic infection,  the health status of the cat  
the rapidity  of infection, but can include; 


   *

  Anaemia 


   *

  Loss of appetite

   *

  Weakness

   *

  Pale mucous membranes (ie: pale gums)

   *

  Weight loss

   *

  Jaundice

   *

  Fever

   *

  Enlarged lymph nodes

   *

  Enlarged spleen

Untreated, FIA can cause death.

*How is haemobartonellosis treated?*

Antibiotics oxytetracycline or doxycycline.

Treatment with a glucocorticoid such as prednisolone may also be 
prescribed to diminish the immune-mediated component of the disease 
process.


Severely anaemic cats may require blood transfusions. 


http://www.cat-world.com.au/FelineInfectiousAnaemia.htm

It can be treated with tetracycline class antibiotics with good 
success but even treated cats should be considered to be carriers of 
the disease and may experience recurrences later. Supportive care is 
often necessary for several days in cats with this condition and 
during the acute infection if may be necessary to use corticosteroids 
despite the immune suppression associated with these medications. It 
is very important to control fleas and other blood sucking organisms 
in a multiple cat household in which one member is found to have 
hemobartonellosis. It is a good idea to occasionally do followup 
bloodwork to make sure anemia is not recurring.
Mike Richards, DVM 

http://www.vetinfo.com/catpara.html#Hemobartonellosis

I have NEVER heard of or read of treating heamobartonella with clavamox 
or baytril.



Bailey was on doxy, prednisolone and epogen for his anemia.  He had a 
bone marrow aspirate to find out why he was anemic.  He did not have 
hemo but we treated for it just in case.  He got the doxy for about 6 weeks.


--

Belinda
happiness is being owned by cats ...

Be-Mi-Kitties
http://bemikitties.com

Post Adoptable FeLV/FIV/FIP Cats/Kittens
http://adopt.bemikitties.com

FeLV Candlelight Service
http://bemikitties.com/cls

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http://HostDesign4U.com



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http://bmk.bemikitties.com



RE: Slinky is Home...but Feverish again

2007-03-19 Thread MacKenzie, Kerry N.
Dear Marissa
I'm so happy for you and Slinky that you have him at home now.  Have a
wonderful day with Slinky. Enjoy every moment you have with him!
Sending zillions of prayes and healing vibes, hugs, Kerry  PS: I wrote
you last night but my server wdn't release it from the outbox. You'll
prob get it today if I can get their tech support to release remotely
for me. There will be a lot in the archives on IR--Michelle (Lerner)
shared a ton of information with us on IR.
 
-Original Message-
From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Marissa
Johnson
Sent: Sunday, March 18, 2007 7:18 PM
To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
Subject: Slinky is Home...but Feverish again


Hi all!!!  Just wanted to give you all the latest update.  I brought
Slinky home this afternoon  The doctor called me this morning and
said he was doing great and could go home.  I stopped and saw him on my
way to church and he was wanting to jump out of his cage and go home.
:)  
 
I went back this afternoon and they said his temp is normal (101 - was
102 when I went in the morning), his BP, respirations, heart rate, etc.
were all normal.  He even ate quite a bit of his dry food after I left
in the morning.  He was alert and looking around.  His gums are still
pale but they're definitely pinker!  
 
When we got home I took him out of his carrier...and watched my baby boy
run across the living room floor, jump up on the couch, and perch on the
window sill!!!  :)  Considering that I wasn't sure I'd even get to bring
him home, I just about burst into tears!  
 
The bill was actually pretty close to the estimate and they're going to
have me continue his clavamox and baytril and give him sub-q fluids if I
need them.  My friend who's a vet tech will be here tonight to help me
take care of him and keep an eye on him for the week.  We have a
follow-up appointment Thursday night to run another CBC and see where we
stand.
 
Throughout all of it, the hospital was absolutely amazing!  I called 2-3
times last night for updates and they were great about getting them to
me.  They actually THANKED me for the opportunity to work with him and
told me what a wonderful cat he is.  :)  
 
Now for the not-so-happy news.  He was really alert and energetic for a
while...but I noticed he was starting to feel warm again.  I took his
temp and it got to 104 and then he moved and it came out and he wouldn't
let me get it in again.  :(  I called the hospital to make sure I was
supposed to give him his abx tonight (wanted to make sure I wasn't
overdosing him after he'd been on IV abx).  The doctor said to give him
the abx and go ahead with sub-q fluids...but also said that she's
concerned about his ability to regenerate and that she thinks I've done
all I can for him...and it may be that if he's eating and alert that's a
good day for him.  
 
We gave him the clavamox, baytril, some C and L-Lysine, and Hi-Vite and
then started the sub-q's.  Took the temp after the fluids were done and
it was 104.4.  I'm hoping it will go down by the time the fluid absorbs.
He's seeming a bit more lethargic and sleepy now.  I hate to keep poking
and prodding him...it has to be frustrating for him!
 
I'm feeling a bit discouraged...everything seemed to be going so well
when I picked him up!  But my friend (the vet tech) is saying that his
body needs time to adjust to the new blood.  I'm hoping that's what's
happening...and not that his body is killing the new blood cells.
Please keep up the prayers and good thoughts!  I know we've done
everything we can...but I really want this to work!  I got my baby back
for a few hours...and I want more!  
 
Thanks again for all your support and love.  I'll send more info when I
have it.
 
MJ

  _  

Don't get soaked. Take a quick peek at the forecast
http://tools.search.yahoo.com/shortcuts/?fr=oni_on_mail#news 
with theYahoo! Search weather shortcut.
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Re: Slinky is Home...but Feverish again

2007-03-19 Thread Nina
Hello Marissa and Slinky.  I just wanted you to know that, like everyone 
else on the list, I'm praying for Slinky and you.  It is no small thing 
that your family and friends have rallied around you in your time of 
need.  Everything seems to have fallen into place to give Slinky the 
best opportunity to recover and I know you recognize how truly blessed 
you are and how special your little angel is in your life.  C'mon 
Slinky, keep on fighting!  Please keep us posted when you can,

Nina

Marissa Johnson wrote:
Hi all!!!  Just wanted to give you all the latest update.  I brought 
Slinky home this afternoon  The doctor called me this morning and 
said he was doing great and could go home.  I stopped and saw him on 
my way to church and he was wanting to jump out of his cage and go 
home.  :) 
 
I went back this afternoon and they said his temp is normal (101 - was 
102 when I went in the morning), his BP, respirations, heart rate, 
etc. were all normal.  He even ate quite a bit of his dry food after I 
left in the morning.  He was alert and looking around.  His gums are 
still pale but they're definitely pinker! 
 
When we got home I took him out of his carrier...and watched my baby 
boy run across the living room floor, jump up on the couch, and perch 
on the window sill!!!  :)  Considering that I wasn't sure I'd even get 
to bring him home, I just about burst into tears! 
 
The bill was actually pretty close to the estimate and they're going 
to have me continue his clavamox and baytril and give him sub-q fluids 
if I need them.  My friend who's a vet tech will be here tonight to 
help me take care of him and keep an eye on him for the week.  We have 
a follow-up appointment Thursday night to run another CBC and see 
where we stand.
 
Throughout all of it, the hospital was absolutely amazing!  I called 
2-3 times last night for updates and they were great about getting 
them to me.  They actually THANKED me for the opportunity to work with 
him and told me what a wonderful cat he is.  :) 
 
Now for the not-so-happy news.  He was really alert and energetic for 
a while...but I noticed he was starting to feel warm again.  I took 
his temp and it got to 104 and then he moved and it came out and he 
wouldn't let me get it in again.  :(  I called the hospital to make 
sure I was supposed to give him his abx tonight (wanted to make sure I 
wasn't overdosing him after he'd been on IV abx).  The doctor said to 
give him the abx and go ahead with sub-q fluids...but also said that 
she's concerned about his ability to regenerate and that she thinks 
I've done all I can for him...and it may be that if he's eating and 
alert that's a good day for him. 
 
We gave him the clavamox, baytril, some C and L-Lysine, and Hi-Vite 
and then started the sub-q's.  Took the temp after the fluids were 
done and it was 104.4.  I'm hoping it will go down by the time the 
fluid absorbs.  He's seeming a bit more lethargic and sleepy now.  I 
hate to keep poking and prodding him...it has to be frustrating for him!
 
I'm feeling a bit discouraged...everything seemed to be going so well 
when I picked him up!  But my friend (the vet tech) is saying that his 
body needs time to adjust to the new blood.  I'm hoping that's what's 
happening...and not that his body is killing the new blood cells.  
Please keep up the prayers and good thoughts!  I know we've done 
everything we can...but I really want this to work!  I got my baby 
back for a few hours...and I want more! 
 
Thanks again for all your support and love.  I'll send more info when 
I have it.
 
MJ



Don't get soaked. Take a quick peek at the forecast 
http://tools.search.yahoo.com/shortcuts/?fr=oni_on_mail#news
with theYahoo! Search weather shortcut. 
http://tools.search.yahoo.com/shortcuts/?fr=oni_on_mail#news 





Re: Slinky is Home...but Feverish again

2007-03-19 Thread wendy
Hi Marissa,

I loved reading your post.  I'm so glad that Slinky is
home again.  Did you ask the doctor about Epogen and
when will they start it? 

:)
Wendy

--- Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED]
wrote:

 Hi all!!!  Just wanted to give you all the latest
 update.  I brought Slinky home this afternoon 
 The doctor called me this morning and said he was
 doing great and could go home.  I stopped and saw
 him on my way to church and he was wanting to jump
 out of his cage and go home.  :)  

   I went back this afternoon and they said his temp
 is normal (101 - was 102 when I went in the
 morning), his BP, respirations, heart rate, etc.
 were all normal.  He even ate quite a bit of his dry
 food after I left in the morning.  He was alert and
 looking around.  His gums are still pale but they're
 definitely pinker!  

   When we got home I took him out of his
 carrier...and watched my baby boy run across the
 living room floor, jump up on the couch, and perch
 on the window sill!!!  :)  Considering that I wasn't
 sure I'd even get to bring him home, I just about
 burst into tears!  

   The bill was actually pretty close to the estimate
 and they're going to have me continue his clavamox
 and baytril and give him sub-q fluids if I need
 them.  My friend who's a vet tech will be here
 tonight to help me take care of him and keep an eye
 on him for the week.  We have a follow-up
 appointment Thursday night to run another CBC and
 see where we stand.

   Throughout all of it, the hospital was absolutely
 amazing!  I called 2-3 times last night for updates
 and they were great about getting them to me.  They
 actually THANKED me for the opportunity to work with
 him and told me what a wonderful cat he is.  :)  

   Now for the not-so-happy news.  He was really
 alert and energetic for a while...but I noticed he
 was starting to feel warm again.  I took his temp
 and it got to 104 and then he moved and it came out
 and he wouldn't let me get it in again.  :(  I
 called the hospital to make sure I was supposed to
 give him his abx tonight (wanted to make sure I
 wasn't overdosing him after he'd been on IV abx). 
 The doctor said to give him the abx and go ahead
 with sub-q fluids...but also said that she's
 concerned about his ability to regenerate and that
 she thinks I've done all I can for him...and it may
 be that if he's eating and alert that's a good day
 for him.  

   We gave him the clavamox, baytril, some C and
 L-Lysine, and Hi-Vite and then started the sub-q's. 
 Took the temp after the fluids were done and it was
 104.4.  I'm hoping it will go down by the time the
 fluid absorbs.  He's seeming a bit more lethargic
 and sleepy now.  I hate to keep poking and prodding
 him...it has to be frustrating for him!

   I'm feeling a bit discouraged...everything seemed
 to be going so well when I picked him up!  But my
 friend (the vet tech) is saying that his body needs
 time to adjust to the new blood.  I'm hoping that's
 what's happening...and not that his body is killing
 the new blood cells.  Please keep up the prayers and
 good thoughts!  I know we've done everything we
 can...but I really want this to work!  I got my baby
 back for a few hours...and I want more!  

   Thanks again for all your support and love.  I'll
 send more info when I have it.

   MJ
 
  
 -
 Don't get soaked.  Take a quick peek at the forecast
 
  with theYahoo! Search weather shortcut.



 

Food fight? Enjoy some healthy debate 
in the Yahoo! Answers Food  Drink QA.
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Re: Slinky is Home...but Feverish again

2007-03-18 Thread elizabeth trent

Thanks for the update.  Love and prayers for you and Slinky.

elizabeth


On 3/18/07, Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:


Hi all!!!  Just wanted to give you all the latest update.  I brought
Slinky home this afternoon  The doctor called me this morning and said
he was doing great and could go home.  I stopped and saw him on my way to
church and he was wanting to jump out of his cage and go home.  :)

I went back this afternoon and they said his temp is normal (101 - was 102
when I went in the morning), his BP, respirations, heart rate, etc. were all
normal.  He even ate quite a bit of his dry food after I left in the
morning.  He was alert and looking around.  His gums are still pale but
they're definitely pinker!

When we got home I took him out of his carrier...and watched my baby boy
run across the living room floor, jump up on the couch, and perch on the
window sill!!!  :)  Considering that I wasn't sure I'd even get to bring him
home, I just about burst into tears!

The bill was actually pretty close to the estimate and they're going to
have me continue his clavamox and baytril and give him sub-q fluids if I
need them.  My friend who's a vet tech will be here tonight to help me take
care of him and keep an eye on him for the week.  We have a follow-up
appointment Thursday night to run another CBC and see where we stand.

Throughout all of it, the hospital was absolutely amazing!  I called 2-3
times last night for updates and they were great about getting them to me.
They actually THANKED me for the opportunity to work with him and told me
what a wonderful cat he is.  :)

Now for the not-so-happy news.  He was really alert and energetic for a
while...but I noticed he was starting to feel warm again.  I took his temp
and it got to 104 and then he moved and it came out and he wouldn't let me
get it in again.  :(  I called the hospital to make sure I was supposed to
give him his abx tonight (wanted to make sure I wasn't overdosing him after
he'd been on IV abx).  The doctor said to give him the abx and go ahead with
sub-q fluids...but also said that she's concerned about his ability to
regenerate and that she thinks I've done all I can for him...and it may be
that if he's eating and alert that's a good day for him.

We gave him the clavamox, baytril, some C and L-Lysine, and Hi-Vite and
then started the sub-q's.  Took the temp after the fluids were done and it
was 104.4.  I'm hoping it will go down by the time the fluid absorbs.
He's seeming a bit more lethargic and sleepy now.  I hate to keep poking and
prodding him...it has to be frustrating for him!

I'm feeling a bit discouraged...everything seemed to be going so well when
I picked him up!  But my friend (the vet tech) is saying that his body needs
time to adjust to the new blood.  I'm hoping that's what's happening...and
not that his body is killing the new blood cells.  Please keep up the
prayers and good thoughts!  I know we've done everything we can...but I
really want this to work!  I got my baby back for a few hours...and I want
more!

Thanks again for all your support and love.  I'll send more info when I
have it.

MJ

--
Don't get soaked. Take a quick peek at the forecast
with theYahoo! Search weather shortcut.




Re: Slinky - latest update

2007-03-17 Thread elizabeth trent

Thank you so much for keeping us posted - so glad you have some good news.
All good thoughts and prayers to you and Slinky.
elizabeth



On 3/17/07, Marissa Johnson [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:


Hi again!  The hospital just called and said the transfusion is done and
he's doing well.  HALLELUJAH  It took 5 hours - a little longer than
usual cuz they went slowly, but it went well.  They said his gums are a
little pinker and his heart rate and breathing are strong.  His temp was a
little high (103 - which after 106 is NOTHING!), but they're running an IV
with ice water to bring it down.  They said he's been munching on his food a
bit (yay!) and he has water and they're giving him fluids.  He looks good
and is stable.  :)

I told them I might call if I wake up and they gave me the name of the
doctor who'll be with him tonight.  I told the tech to give him a kiss for
me and she said she'd be back in the morning and looks forward to seeing
me.

Too early to know how much it's helped, but they'll run another CBC in the
morning and we'll go from there.  I plan to at least stop in on my way to
church...and may stay depending on how he's doing.  Maybe I could even take
him home after church if he's doing well.  :)

Re: my family.  Yes, they are AMAZING  My real dad (biological, the
one i lived with growing up) does think Im crazy!  I haven't told him yet
that I did the transfusion but he kept saying that i should save the money
for my next cat!  GEESH!!!  But this chosen dad really gets it and really
wanted to help.  He's always been there when I've needed him most!

I'm just SO RELIEVED to know he's doing well!!!  I think I might actually
sleep tonight - for the first time in 3 nights!  He's a fighter and it looks
like he's gonna win this one!  I hope it will buy us much more time
together, and time to figure out some other strategies.

This hospital is incredible - they have 17 vets on staff not counting
specialists, techs, and the wellness team!  And they really seem on top of
the care and are very sensitive to the owners - kept preparing me for seeing
him in isolation with a gown on, etc. and made sure to call and update me.
So I'm thankful to have a great hospital, incredible family, and one AMAZING
furbaby!!!  Be encouraged: miracles DO happen!  Praise God!!  :)

Thanks again for all your support!  Hang in there everyone.

Hugs for all the fur kids!

MJ

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RE: Slinky Update: Good News

2006-08-03 Thread Rosenfeldt, Diane



Slinky is a GREAT boy. Congratulations on such a good 
vet visit.

Diane R.


From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Marissa 
JohnsonSent: Wednesday, August 02, 2006 7:13 PMTo: 
felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Slinky Update: Good 
News

Hi again all. Just thought I'd let you know that all is well with 
Slinky. I went up to get his meds today and decided to take him with to 
have them weigh him. He's actually gained about 1/2 a pound, maybe a 
little more since I was last there a week and a half ago. And the nurse 
looked at him and said he looked perfect. :) She also cleaned out 
his ears (which were quitegoopy since I've been giving him mitricide). 
The doctor even came out and talked with me a bit (he didn't think the 
chemicals used for the roaches would be a problem for him since they're not for 
other cats...said they tend not to affect mammals much). He also gave him 
the first of the 2 Drontal tablets so I wouldn't have to try to get him to take 
it. So that was helpful!!!

My baby did GREAT. Didn't even make much noise in the car and didn't 
flinch at all when they cleaned his ears and gave him the pill. Such a 
good boy!!!

I told both the nurse and the vet about this group so that if they have 
others who have positive cats, they can pass on the info. The nurse was 
thrilled...and shocked to hear that some vets recommend immediate 
euthanasia. The doctor was already familiar with the site. He said 
that there's really nothing you can do to boost his immune system, but that 
nothing I did would hurt him (not a great response, but ok). But he kept 
reiterating that he has every chance of having a normal life expectancy and 
staying healthy...or of testing negative in a few months. So that was 
helpful! I told him I was going to keep up with the natural food, 
supplements, etc. so that at least I'd feel like I was doing something to help 
him. 

Anyway...just thought I'd share. Thanks for all your help with trying 
to figure out his weight and "bonyness" issues. I appreciate it!!! 


MJ


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RE: Slinky Update: Good News

2006-08-03 Thread MacKenzie, Kerry N.
Title: Message




Great news about Slinky!
Re: He said that there's 
really nothing you can do to boost his immune system, 
I guess if he's right what we're doing is 
trying to make sure it's not further depressed?


-Original Message-From: 
[EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] 
On Behalf Of Marissa JohnsonSent: Wednesday, August 02, 2006 
7:13 PMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Slinky 
Update: Good News
Hi again all. Just thought I'd let you know that all is well with 
Slinky. I went up to get his meds today and decided to take him with to 
have them weigh him. He's actually gained about 1/2 a pound, maybe a 
little more since I was last there a week and a half ago. And the nurse 
looked at him and said he looked perfect. :) She also cleaned out 
his ears (which were quitegoopy since I've been giving him mitricide). 
The doctor even came out and talked with me a bit (he didn't think the 
chemicals used for the roaches would be a problem for him since they're not for 
other cats...said they tend not to affect mammals much). He also gave him 
the first of the 2 Drontal tablets so I wouldn't have to try to get him to take 
it. So that was helpful!!!

My baby did GREAT. Didn't even make much noise in the car and didn't 
flinch at all when they cleaned his ears and gave him the pill. Such a 
good boy!!!

I told both the nurse and the vet about this group so that if they have 
others who have positive cats, they can pass on the info. The nurse was 
thrilled...and shocked to hear that some vets recommend immediate 
euthanasia. The doctor was already familiar with the site. He said 
that there's really nothing you can do to boost his immune system, but that 
nothing I did would hurt him (not a great response, but ok). But he kept 
reiterating that he has every chance of having a normal life expectancy and 
staying healthy...or of testing negative in a few months. So that was 
helpful! I told him I was going to keep up with the natural food, 
supplements, etc. so that at least I'd feel like I was doing something to help 
him. 

Anyway...just thought I'd share. Thanks for all your help with trying 
to figure out his weight and "bonyness" issues. I appreciate it!!! 


MJ


See the all-new, redesigned Yahoo.com. Check it 
out. 

IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE. Any advice expressed above as to tax matters was neither written nor intended by the sender or Mayer, Brown, Rowe  Maw LLP to be used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax law. If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any taxpayer, then (i) the advice was written to support the promotion or marketing (by a person other than Mayer, Brown, Rowe  Maw LLP) of that transaction or matter, and (ii) such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayers particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor

This email and any files transmitted with it are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail. 


Re: Slinky Update: Good News (boosting the immune system)

2006-08-03 Thread Nina




Of course you can boost the immune system! What he means is there is
nothing that he believes will boost the immune system.
Which is still a ludicrous statement. What about the use of immune
boosters for human cancer patients? What about Vita supplements??
What's that? A multi million dollar hoax, built on the placebo
effect?? Anytime I've asked a specialist, esp a surgeon about
supplements and immune boosters, their eyes kind of glaze over. That's
one of the problems with the medical world vs. the "real" world. They
are very reluctant to give credence to anything that has not been
clinically proven. They aren't that interested, usually, in anequdotal
success stories. They want hard, validated proof that something works
before they feel comfortable recommending it to others, (and very few
are willing to fund costly studies unless there's the hope of a pot of
gold sitting at the end of it). The best I can get out of most of them
is "Well, I guess it couldn't hurt". How many times do we have to
prove the "experts" wrong before we stop listening to them nay say?
Nina

MacKenzie, Kerry N. wrote:

  
  Message
  
  
  Great news about Slinky!
  Re: He said that
there's really nothing you can do to boost his immune system, 
  I guess if he's right what
we're doing is trying to make sure it's not further depressed?
  





Re: Slinky Update: Good News (boosting the immune system)

2006-08-03 Thread Marissa Johnson
Yep, Nina. That's exactly what he meant! And that's exactly what I got out of him: "Nothing you do will hurt him." I completely agree with you. We know about the positive effects of supplements and vitamins for humans (otherwise why would OB's tell pregnant women to take PRENATAL vitamins, why did my dr. tell me to take folic acid), so why would it be so different for other animals? But...I guess what he doesn't believe won't hurt him! lol Actually, though, it can. But at least he does believe he could throw it off or live a full and healthy life even with a pos test. And I'm certainly not going to listen to him...I believe diet and sups, etc. will help my Slink. It is frustrating though!!!MarissaNina [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:  Of course
 you can boost the immune system! What he means is there is nothing that he believes will boost the immune system. Which is still a ludicrous statement. What about the use of immune boosters for human cancer patients? What about Vita supplements?? What's that? A multi million dollar hoax, built on the placebo effect?? Anytime I've asked a specialist, esp a surgeon about supplements and immune boosters, their eyes kind of glaze over. That's one of the problems with the medical world vs. the "real" world. They are very reluctant to give credence to anything that has not been clinically proven. They aren't that interested, usually, in anequdotal success stories. They want hard, validated proof that something works before they feel comfortable recommending it to others, (and very few are willing to fund costly studies unless there's the hope of a pot of gold sitting at the end of it).
 The best I can get out of most of them is "Well, I guess it couldn't hurt". How many times do we have to prove the "experts" wrong before we stop listening to them nay say?NinaMacKenzie, Kerry N. wrote: Great news about Slinky!  Re: He said that there's really nothing you can do to boost his immune system,   I guess if he's right what we're doing is trying to make sure it's not further depressed? 
		Do you Yahoo!? Everyone is raving about the  all-new Yahoo! Mail Beta.

RE: Slinky Update: Good News (boosting the immune system)

2006-08-03 Thread MacKenzie, Kerry N.
Title: Message




Thanks 
Nina!

-Original Message-From: 
[EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] 
On Behalf Of NinaSent: Thursday, August 03, 2006 11:33 
AMTo: felvtalk@felineleukemia.orgSubject: Re: Slinky 
Update: Good News (boosting the immune system)Of course you 
can boost the immune system! What he means is there is nothing that 
he believes will boost the immune system. Which is still a 
ludicrous statement. What about the use of immune boosters for human 
cancer patients? What about Vita supplements?? What's 
that? A multi million dollar hoax, built on the placebo effect?? 
Anytime I've asked a specialist, esp a surgeon about supplements and immune 
boosters, their eyes kind of glaze over. That's one of the problems with 
the medical world vs. the "real" world. They are very reluctant to give 
credence to anything that has not been clinically proven. They aren't that 
interested, usually, in anequdotal success stories. They want hard, 
validated proof that something works before they feel comfortable recommending 
it to others, (and very few are willing to fund costly studies unless there's 
the hope of a pot of gold sitting at the end of it). The best I can get 
out of most of them is "Well, I guess it couldn't hurt". How many times do 
we have to prove the "experts" wrong before we stop listening to them nay 
say?NinaMacKenzie, Kerry N. wrote: 

  
  
  Great news about Slinky!
  Re: He said that there's 
  really nothing you can do to boost his immune system, 
  I guess if he's right what we're doing is 
  trying to make sure it's not further 
depressed?

IRS CIRCULAR 230 NOTICE. Any advice expressed above as to tax matters was neither written nor intended by the sender or Mayer, Brown, Rowe  Maw LLP to be used and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed under U.S. tax law. If any person uses or refers to any such tax advice in promoting, marketing or recommending a partnership or other entity, investment plan or arrangement to any taxpayer, then (i) the advice was written to support the promotion or marketing (by a person other than Mayer, Brown, Rowe  Maw LLP) of that transaction or matter, and (ii) such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayers particular circumstances from an independent tax advisor

This email and any files transmitted with it are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the system manager. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail. 


RE: Slinky Update: Good News

2006-08-03 Thread wendy
Great news MJ!  Good for Slinky!  About your vet's
immunity statment: tell that vet I asked if he'd
personally do an experiment with L-lyine on some
symptomatic feline herpes kitties (test group vs.
non-test group) and then tell me that you can't boost
their immune systems!  If you can boost our immune
systems, why couldn't you boost an animal's?  Isn't
that what different HIV+ patients are doing when they
take anti-virals and other meds???  I can't believe he
made that statment.  Sorry about the vent.  Again, so
happy for Slinky!

:)
Wendy

 
 From: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
 [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On
 Behalf Of Marissa
 Johnson
 Sent: Wednesday, August 02, 2006 7:13 PM
 To: felvtalk@felineleukemia.org
 Subject: Slinky Update: Good News
 
 
 Hi again all.  Just thought I'd let you know that
 all is well with
 Slinky.  I went up to get his meds today and decided
 to take him with to
 have them weigh him.  He's actually gained about 1/2
 a pound, maybe a
 little more since I was last there a week and a half
 ago.  And the nurse
 looked at him and said he looked perfect.  :)  She
 also cleaned out his
 ears (which were quite goopy since I've been giving
 him mitricide).  The
 doctor even came out and talked with me a bit (he
 didn't think the
 chemicals used for the roaches would be a problem
 for him since they're
 not for other cats...said they tend not to affect
 mammals much).  He
 also gave him the first of the 2 Drontal tablets so
 I wouldn't have to
 try to get him to take it.  So that was helpful!!!
  
 My baby did GREAT.  Didn't even make much noise in
 the car and didn't
 flinch at all when they cleaned his ears and gave
 him the pill.  Such a
 good boy!!!
  
 I told both the nurse and the vet about this group
 so that if they have
 others who have positive cats, they can pass on the
 info.  The nurse was
 thrilled...and shocked to hear that some vets
 recommend immediate
 euthanasia.  The doctor was already familiar with
 the site.  He said
 that there's really nothing you can do to boost his
 immune system, but
 that nothing I did would hurt him (not a great
 response, but ok).  But
 he kept reiterating that he has every chance of
 having a normal life
 expectancy and staying healthy...or of testing
 negative in a few months.
 So that was helpful!  I told him I was going to keep
 up with the natural
 food, supplements, etc. so that at least I'd feel
 like I was doing
 something to help him.  
  
 Anyway...just thought I'd share.  Thanks for all
 your help with trying
 to figure out his weight and bonyness issues.  I
 appreciate it!!!  
  
 MJ
 
 
 
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 attachments are confidential and may be privileged. 
 
 They should be read or retained only by the intended
 recipient.  If you have received this 
 transmission in error, please notify the sender
 immediately and delete the transmission from 
 your system.  In addition, in order to comply with
 Treasury Circular 230, we are required to 
 inform you that unless we have specifically stated
 to the contrary in writing, any advice we 
 provide in this email or any attachment concerning
 federal tax issues or submissions is not 
 intended or written to be used, and cannot be used,
 to avoid federal tax penalties.
 


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Re: Slinky Update: Good News

2006-08-02 Thread ETrent




This is such good news! Thank you for the update. Please give 
Slinky a big kitty kiss from me and the kids.

elizabeth



In a message dated 8/2/2006 5:13:02 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, 
[EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:

  Hi again all. Just thought I'd let you know that all is well with 
  Slinky. I went up to get his meds today and decided to take him with to 
  have them weigh him. He's actually gained about 1/2 a pound, maybe a 
  little more since I was last there a week and a half ago. And the nurse 
  looked at him and said he looked perfect. :) She also cleaned out 
  his ears (which were quitegoopy since I've been giving him mitricide). 
  The doctor even came out and talked with me a bit (he didn't think the 
  chemicals used for the roaches would be a problem for him since they're not 
  for other cats...said they tend not to affect mammals much). He also 
  gave him the first of the 2 Drontal tablets so I wouldn't have to try to get 
  him to take it. So that was helpful!!!
  
  My baby did GREAT. Didn't even make much noise in the car and 
  didn't flinch at all when they cleaned his ears and gave him the pill. 
  Such a good boy!!!
  
  I told both the nurse and the vet about this group so that if they have 
  others who have positive cats, they can pass on the info. The nurse was 
  thrilled...and shocked to hear that some vets recommend immediate 
  euthanasia. The doctor was already familiar with the site. He said 
  that there's really nothing you can do to boost his immune system, but that 
  nothing I did would hurt him (not a great response, but ok). But he kept 
  reiterating that he has every chance of having a normal life expectancy and 
  staying healthy...or of testing negative in a few months. So that was 
  helpful! I told him I was going to keep up with the natural food, 
  supplements, etc. so that at least I'd feel like I was doing something to help 
  him. 
  
  Anyway...just thought I'd share. Thanks for all your help with 
  trying to figure out his weight and "bonyness" issues. I appreciate 
  it!!! 
  
  MJ