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| Honestly, I didn't do it. I'm the "Good" one! |
| 1/15/2004 -- After months of trying to determine the problem, my beautiful boy was diagnosed with Cushing's Disease and (secondary) Diabetes Insipidous on 1/08/2004. The battle is currently in full swing and I will post updates as I have time (and the mental ability). Your prayers and thoughts are most appreciated. |
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| 4/22/2004 -- It has been a long hard battle. Willy crashed following a Lysodren overload and had to be supported with IV and sub-q liquids for several weeks. He lost over 7 lbs. -- quite a bit for a little fellow. Fortunately, he is currently stable and has gained back his weight. He was put on daily Prednisone following the crash in Jan. and we are now weaning him off. At this point, he is considered Addisonian, but will have another ACTH test as soon as Prednisone effects are minimized enough to get accurate results. Then we will know more about what long-term treatment is best for him. |
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8/10/2004 -- Willy is no longer considered either Cushings or Addisons and has been off all meds for the past several months. His last 2 ACTH test results have been in normal range, his activity level is good, and he has maintained a consistent weight. He is on a natural (not raw) diet which is supplemented with milk thistle and Missing Link. He still suffers from Diabetes Insipidous (turns out it is primary, not secondary to the Cushings) which causes him to need excessive amounts of water, which, of course, causes frequent urination. He also has extremely dry skin and coat due to this condition, but the natural diet seems to help to a degree. I wish he could tell me how he feels --- Most days he seems to be his normal energetic self, but sometimes I see a sadness in his expressive little face that makes me wonder. Although he still loves playtime with his ball and his Frisbee, he tires out more quickly nowdays and recovery takes longer. He's always been such a happy spirit and is quick to adapt to whatever is asked of him. Such an agreeable fellow --- the "gentleman" of our pack. We pray that we can get the Diabetes Insipidous under control and that this delightful little boy remains stable. |
12/01/2004 --- We started Willy on Desmopressin, a drug used to treat Diabetes Insipidous, in September. It has been extremely successful! The excessive water consumption and frequent urination problems are relieved, and we are all back to sleeping through the night! Willy's energy level and his stamina have greatly improved and, except for the greying on his muzzle, you would never realize that he is an "older" gentleman! He loves to run, jump, and play, and is forever ready for a game of chase (and catch) the ball or Frisbee. His Cushing's remains under control and ACTH tests continue to show his cortisol levels within normal range. So our favorite little fellow has come through these recent battles with his zest for life strong and undiminished. He and Maggie are looking forward to a wonderful Christmas with lots of toys, treats, and festivities! WAY-TO-GO WILLY!!!! |
| 5/12/2005 --- Willy lost his battle on 2/24/2005. Although he had overcome the Cushings, and the Diabietes Insipidous was under control, the pituitary tumor remained and continued to spread its poison. Following 17 hours of battling with ever-increasing seizures, I set my little man free. My world is a dimmer place. To see my farewell page, click here. |