Sick child....

[Fuel]

...we consider out bird our child (had her since she was a baby and is now 14).

She went to the doctors two weeks ago for a check-up, the doctor noticed a bump her head. ( she didn't have the day before) Okay, we figure she hit her head. A week later the bump is getting better, she developed two black eyes (like punched in the face) and dilated eyes. Her eyes look much better today. Took her back to the doctor to have the bump drained, sent the blood to a lab. The test came positive Friday. The rate this thing is growing and the location (near her left eye), I doubt she has much time to live. :crying: She is young, this species lives around 25-30 years.

Going to try to get an appointment with a avian specialist for a consult, I doubt that this thing (about half the size of her head), could be removed. Unsure if I want to put her through that stress of surgery and/or tests. I feel helpless, she is not in pain and playing like nothing is wrong. I guess the only thing we can do is keep her comfortable.

[poppy]

Oh Fuel- I am sorry to hear about your sick baby.:crying: Hopefully the avian specialist can help. Have you tried flower essences. They can help with sick and stressed animals and can also help de-stress humans as well.

Poppy:hug2:

[Virgo6]

Oh, Fuel my thoughts are with you. My animals are like my children also and unlike my REAL children they love me faults and all. I recently had to put my Guinea Pig Rue to sleep. She was 8 yrs. old and the emergency Vet couldn't believe that. The oldest one he treated was 7. She didn't seem sick but she stopped eating, drinking her water and going to the bathroom. It was so hard to do but the Vet said that running tests would put more stress on her body. Her little body was just breaking down. What kind of bird is it? Our animals love us so much and they don't want us to know that they are in pain. Is the bird eating? What is its name so I can keep it in my prayers? I took my 6 yr. old cat Sage to have two teeth extracted Fri. and she is a tiny cat of only 5 3/4 lbs. I came on here to talk about her because I was worried. She was in pain and so weak Fri. night and all day yesterday, but much better today. Your heart will tell you the right thing to do. If you can go to a specialist maybe they will give you some more options. So sorry.

[snip the elf]

So sorry to hear the bad news. I hope things go ok for you and your family. What kind of a bird is it?
Hopefully it can pull through

[pocket]

I'm so sorry, Fuel. Anyone who loses a beloved family pet can commiserate. You say the blood test came back positive....positive for cancer? It sounds to be fluid filled, if they were able to drain it. I hope you get some good news from the specialist. If not, it's a blessing that she doesn't seem to be in pain.

[AvecLion]

Oh man, sorry to hear the news. I hope the specialist will have better news for you. It has to be hard when she's acting normal but you know something's wrong. What type of bird is she? :hug2:

[Slitter]

Fuel, I'm sorry to hear about your baby. A beloved pet absolutely is a member of the family. I will keep my fingers crossed that the specialist will have some good news for you. Meanwhile, at least she isn't suffering so it doesn't sound like her quality of life is being affected so far. That's at least a blessing. :hug2:

[Gabby]

Add me to the list of well-wishers.

:hug2:

I'm sorry to hear about this. I hope you get some answers soon.

[Sunburntbeatle]

((((((Fuel & Feathered Friend))))))

[Irishlass]

Like everyone else, I'm waiting for news about your feathered family member. Pets are so much a part of our families, it is so difficult when they become seriously ill. You are all in my thoughts.

[An-g_BB]

((((((fuel))))))
(((((FuelBirdie)))))))

sending many wishes of options with the specialist!!!

[Fuel]

Thanks everyone!

Called the vet today, got an appoitment at 1 PM. It is the best vet hospital around, driving there reminded me of visiting Moppy, it's about 2 hours away in Northern NJ. The doctor is very optomistic, she is going to remove it tomorrow morning (staying overnight). There are some risks, but if she pulls through this she'll be okay. I'll let everyone know how she did tomorrow.

[Pepper]

Fuel, sorry to hear about your pet. I hope all goes well with the speciallist. Dogs, cats,birds or bunnies...doesn't really matter. Pets find a special place in our hearts. I hope the poor little thing has many more years in store. Got my fingers crossed :luck: Good luck

[frawniemae]

Adding my good thoughts and prayers for you and yours, Fuel.

[Slitter]

That sounds very promising, Fuel. I'll be thinking about your baby tomorrow morning and sending good vibes her way. :hug2: I hope you can sleep ok tonight. Will you pick her up tomorrow or will they want to keep her for a day or so to make sure all is well?

[pocket]

...hoping for the best for your little guy, Fuel. I pray all goes well.

[AvecLion]

Keeping you and your baby in my thoughts, Fuel.

[UkraineMom]

It is always so hard when our loved ones are not well


sending warm thoughts and prayers

[Sunburntbeatle]

Lighting a candle for you and your feathered friend.....

[Jac-Kuch-ie]

I hope everything went well. (((Fuel)))

[Fuel]

Still waiting, her surgery was taking place around 11:30. So I wait....

Here is Minoko, an Indian Ringneck.

Taken last year.

http://www.the-shelleys.com/sitebuilder/images/Minok_Bell3-445x326.jpg

[pocket]

Pretty girl! I wish her well.

[An-g_BB]

AWWWW soo sweet!!! ~ y aknow, she looks like Tweety!!!! Hope shes doing ok!!!! (((FUEL)))
((((Minoko))))

[Fuel]

She made it through surgery with no problems. The doctor is very perplexed on what this was, it wasn't a mass like a tumor but some "odd" swelling. Perhaps a collection of blood clots. She will be fine, yesterday was talk of chemo not mentioned today, doesn't appear like cancer. The doctor needs to wait for the pathology report.

[Virgo6]

Fuel,
Hopeful the surgery went well and Minoko will be on the mend. She is such a pretty bird. Hugs and good thoughts going your way. Prayers too. :hug2: :hug2:

[Virgo6]

I guess you were posting as I wrote mine. Great news! you all must be so relieved. This might sound weird, but when my son was 10 something like that was found on his neck. He had surgery and what it was is exactly what you described on your baby..........a big jumble of blood clots. Erik was fine also, but it was a scary experience. Drs. had no clue it would be that when they operated. Keep us all posted. Hope she will be home soon.

[Gabby]

Woo hoo!

:luck:

[Slitter]

That's terrific news, Fuel. I know you are very relieved. I'm glad everything went so well for her.

[An-g_BB]

Ahhh SOoooO Glad to hear that the procedure went well!! im hopeing for more good news after the pathology is done!!!

:D

[tahitisweetie]

Great news!

[Sunburntbeatle]

I'm glad she's OK.

[Kramer]

She is beautiful Fuel, Im so glad that it doesn't look like cancer :hug2: I hope the pathology report comes back good and your sick kid soon returns to full health!! :lovey:

[Irishlass]

Great news, Fuel. She's a beautiful bird.

[AvecLion]

I'm so happy for you! I hope Minoko's tests come back negative and she stays healthy.

[pocket]

:luck: got everything crossed that everything will be fine.

[JayDee]

I'm so glad she is on the mend! Good thoughts to you and your baby!

[Fuel]

The doctor isn't sure what is going on with her. She will know more when the histology report comes back, doctor is really puzzled. If it is a sarcoma (cancer), then her time is short as chemo isn't an option due to its size.

[Kramer]

Still keeping her in my prayers!! :hug2:

[Pepper]

Still hoping for the best for you and your little buddy. Love the picture it shows her personality

[patchiepoopoo]

Thanks for posting that picture Fuel, it is apparant why you love your baby so, what a beauty.
My prayers go out to you for good results and that you will have many more years of love and happiness together for the 2 of you.
God Bless.

[Virgo6]

Fuel,
How is Minoko doing?

[Fuel]

Her lump has grown back already! :eek: Doctor said it might but 3 days later??? Still haven't rec'd word on the histology report.

She is in good spirits and no apparent disabilites at this point. She goes back to the vet on Thursday evening.

[WOODTURNER]

I suppose that whatever it is, it chose the weakest part of the body to migrate into...the incision area. When they find what it is, perhaps treatment will be obvious and all will be well.:)

Holding the very best thoughts for you all. J

[Virgo6]

Sorry, to hear that the lump has returned. I will keep you and your baby in my prayers. Please let us all know how she is doing. The gang here cares.

[Slitter]

That's really weird, Fuel. I hope the docs can figure out what the heck it is and can deal with it once and for all. :luck:

[snip the elf]

Glad to hear everything is ok! What such a lovel color too!!

[Fuel]

Just got the bad word from the doc.

Hemangiosarcoma is a rare, rapidly growing, highly invasive variety of cancer. It is a blood-fed sarcoma; that is, blood vessels grow directly into the tumor and it is typically filled with blood.

This is extremely rare tumor, I only found two documentated cases in pet birds. She only has a few weeks to live, and will probably have to be put to sleep.

[Slitter]

Oh, Fuel. I am so sorry to read this news. :hug2:

[Irishlass]

What a roller coaster ride this has been for you all. I'm so sorry it has turned out this way. At least now you know and you have some control over the end, as painful as that will be. Hugs to you and yours as you go through these last few days with your feathered friend.

[poppy]

Oh Fuel- So sorry to hear that news- enjoy your time together and the good times you did have- she is a beautiful bird.

Poppy:hug2:

[pocket]

Fuel, what sad news. I'm so sorry that it has turned out this way for your little friend. Enjoy the time you have left with her, bitter-sweet though it may be.

[Virgo6]

Fuel, my thoughts are with you and the family. So sorry to hear the sad news. She is a beautiful bird and I am sure has brought you so many wonderful times........she will always remain in your heart and in your memories.

[Gabby]

I'm so sorry to hear this.

[UkraineMom]

I am so sorry to hear your sad news....

((((((((((Fuel))))))))))

[AvecLion]

Aw, Fuel - I wish it didn't turn out like this.

[WOODTURNER]

For all the sadness and pain their leaving costs us, they have made us happy and contributed to our sensibilities and compassion. "Better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all:.

[Kramer]

Fuel, I am so very sorry to hear this (((hugs))) My thoughts and prayers are with your feathered baby and you. ((((hugs))))

[patchiepoopoo]

Fuel, My deepest, deepest, sympathy goes out to you at this very sad time in your life. I was praying you would not get this bad news. What a friendship you have shared together. I pray now that the end is peaceful with no pain and that you will have someone to help you get through this difficult situation.
{{{{{ Fuel }}}}}} hugs to you and your baby too.

[Sunburntbeatle]

I am so sorry to hear this. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts.

[tahitisweetie]

So sorry! I had hoped for better news for you and your precious child.

Thinking good thoughts for you all.

[Jac-Kuch-ie]

I'm so sorry, Fuel.

[Fuel]

I am in a whirl of emotions today. I decided to work from home and call the cemetary this afternoon. I let her out for lunch, and I think she is showing signs of discomfort. Her lump is the largest that I've ever seen it, I am really concerned that it might burst and she would bleed to death. We see the vet at 5, to discuss our next steps.

[Virgo6]

Fuel,
This is so hard for you I know. Poor Minoko. Did you get my email about the painting my animal artist daughter wants to send you as a gift? My whole family is a bunch of nature and animal lovers and I have been keeping her updated on your baby. She has a heart of gold and feels so badly for you.
She asked to see the photo you posted and I sent it to her. She made a painting to ease your pain.

[Gabby]

Sending more hugs your way. I know this is going to be a terribly difficult day for you.

[poppy]

That is a lovely thing of your daughter to do Virgo- We had a painting done of our beloved cat Avalon and she watches over us always.

Poppy:crying:

[tahitisweetie]

Ohhh, I know you are having an emotional day.

Keeping you in my thoughts this evening Fuel.

[frawniemae]

I was hoping that the news wouldn't be bad. I'm sorry for your pain.

[Fuel]

We put her to sleep last night. :crying:

Thank you everyone! Virgo, thanks...I'm sorry I haven't gotten that e-mail. Best to send a PM here.

I'lll be off-line for a few days. The cemetary is 90 miles away and we are staying over night in the area.

[Virgo6]

So sorry Fuel. I know how you will miss Minoko because she was a special friend. I will send you a PI about the painting. She knows you loved her and did what you knew was best for her. HUGS

[UkraineMom]

OH Fuel... I know your heart is breaking.... I am so sorry for you

Love and Prayers

[Slitter]

Fuel, I am so sorry you had to lose her. I'm sure it was a hard decision but probably the right one based on what you said. Hugs and warm thoughts to you and your wife.

[poppy]

Fuel- My thoughts are with you and your wife at this very difficult time.
:hearton: :hug2: :hearton:

[pocket]

I'm sorry Minoko couldn't be saved. But, you saved her from deteriorating and suffering, that's a good thing. I know it doesn't feel like it now. Just know most of us have had a pet we've had to put down, and know how you're feeling and grieve with you.

[patchiepoopoo]

My tears are for you and yours............this is such a sad situation. The only good thing is that your baby did not suffer at the end and went peacefully to the bridge where she will wait for you to join her one day.
I am so sorry for your loss.

[Sunburntbeatle]

(((((((Fuel and Mrs Fuel)))))))

[frawniemae]

:hug2: Fuel...Words don't really help much: just know I'm thinking of you and yours.

[WOODTURNER]

If it should be...

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep
Then you must do what must be done
For this last battle can't be won.
You will be sad, I understand,
Don't let your grief then stay your hand,
For this day, more than all the rest
Your love and friendship stands the test.
We've had so many happy years
What is to come can hold no fears
Would you want me to suffer? So
When that time comes please let me go.
Take me where my needs they'll tend
But stay beside me to the end
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time that you will see
The kindness that you do for me
Although my tail its last has waved
From pain and suffering I've been saved.
Do not grieve it must be you
Who must decide this thing to do
We've been so close, we two, these years
Remember joy among your tears.


Anonymous

Questions or comments... webmaster@catsprn.com

[Pepper]

Fuel, I'm so sorry about your loss.....

Virgo, that painting is a very nice sentiment....I'm sure it's beautiful

[JayDee]

Fuel - I am so sorry for your loss and am thinking of you.

[Fuel]

Thank you everybody. :hug2:

Virogo we would really appreciate that painting. Thanks!

Woodturner that was great to read.

Thursday/Friday was horrible. The pet memorial park was beautiful, it was in a very rural part of Nothern NJ. A setting we really enjoy. It wasn't too far, we will be able to visit often if we wish. As time goes by it will be easier on us. We just have to keep reminding ourselves that we did the right thing.

[Virgo6]

You did do the right thing Fuel and Minoko knows that. You will meet again someday. And Woodturner that was beautiful. I have never read that before. Thank you.

[Sunburntbeatle]

Fuel, you did do the right thing. Gentle hugs to you and your wife.

A couple of links that might help:

http://www.equineinfo.com/alison/connection.htm

http://indigo.org/rainbow/

[WOODTURNER]

...Thanks for the Rainbow Bridge--I'll hold on to those thoughts.

[Typhoonmary]

Just what I needed to pass on to a friend who just recently lost her Shitzu.

[Kramer]

:hug2: Fuel, Im so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your feathered baby :hug2:

[Slitter]

Woodturner, that is a really great poem. It made me remember all my pets that had to be "let go" - but in a good way. I never really doubted the decision but this says it from the other side and makes it seem like they understood it too. Silly perhaps, but also comforting.

[Typhoonmary]

If it should be...


For this day, more than all the rest
Your love and friendship stands the test.

When that time comes please let me go.
Take me where my needs they'll tend
But stay beside me to the end
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time that you will see
The kindness that you do for me
Although my tail its last has waved
From pain and suffering I've been saved.
Do not grieve it must be you
Who must decide this thing to do
We've been so close, we two, these years
Remember joy among your tears.

Anonymous

Thank you so much for sharing this. I have saved it in a file to give to others when they are grieving for a pet and have to take that final step.

[patchiepoopoo]

I've read that poem before and it sure touches the heart at a difficult time in life when we have to let go of our beloved furkids. Just beautiful.
Thanks for posting it here. Fuel, I know the pain in your heart is deep but you did the right thing for your baby and the fact that you traveled to that pet cemetary for the final resting place just fills me with emotion at your love. God bless you to get through this period of grief.

[Irishlass]

Fuel, I'm so sorry it ended this way. I'm sure you did the right thing. Eventually your pain will be replaced by only good memories of Minoko.
(((((Fuel)))))

[Fuel]

Virgo's daughter painted a great photo of Minoko. We finally had it framed a few weeks ago. Below the painting is her name plate that was on the cage, and one of her favorite bells. I tried to minimize the flash in Photoshop.

http://fuel.survivoraddicts.net/Minoko_Art.jpg

[Virgo6]

Oh, Fuel Kris will be so happy to see that. I sent her the link. The name and bell just sets it off so nicely. Thanks for posting it and I hope it brings you comfort.

[Irishlass]

WOW, what a beautiful memorial to a special pet. Virgo's daughter did a great job with the painting and the name plate and bell make it a wonderful grouping.

[WOODTURNER]

...Altogether beautiful.

Artist did a wonderful job--and I love the way you had it framed.

[tahitisweetie]

Beautiful!

[Sunburntbeatle]

That's so special. Thanks for sharing.

[Gabby]

Add me to the list of admirers!

[An-g_BB]

:hug2:

Fuel~ I am saddened by your loss. An what a beautiful rememberance of Minoko.

[Fuel]

We got lucky. We went to a local frame shop, and she knew exactly how these pieces should be displayed. We were very happy with the results.

[patchiepoopoo]

It is all just PURRfect :thumb:

:hug2:

[Slitter]

That's beautiful, Fuel. I love the way it is all arranged together. It's a wonderful memorial.

[pocket]

I love the display you put together, Fuel. Virgo, tell Kris she did a wonderful job on the painting. Just beautiful!

[AvecLion]

awesome tribute - v6, your daughter is a very special person. Fuel, the display is so fitting.

[Mouse9]

Ditto. It looks like it was very tastefully done. Nice job by Virgo's daughter and the framer.

[Pepper]

What a great job on the painting! It's beautiful. Such a nice memorial for a much loved pet.

[Kramer]

How beautiful, what a loving tribute to Minoko.