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Thrown for a Loop

When I woke up this morning, I thought that today was going to be a regular Tuesday. I got up and got dressed, got the kids dressed, packed Payton's snack in her backpack, poured Payton some milk and got her breakfast, and then got in the car to take Payton to preschool. I went to the gym to work my co-op shift and then worked out while Austin remained in the room to play. We then went to the PX to get a Go Army! Beat Navy! flag for my dad for his office, and then we went to get Payton from preschool. On the way home, Adam calls.

The day took a turn that I wasn't expecting. Adam heard from the vet today and found out that Chance's mast cell tumor was Stage 2 and that he needs to see the oncologist to figure out what to do next. The cancer cells have spread to his lymph nodes so he will either need to undergo chemotherapy or radiation. Well, at least we hope those are the only two options.

Chance after his mast cell tumor removal surgery
Having a 1 year old and a 3 year old, it is impossible to explain to them what is going on with their dog. Payton, who is 3, somewhat understands but she still doesn't fully comprehend what is going on and why we are sad. Austin, our almost 1 year old, has no idea what is going on and just tries to play with Chance's cone of shame.

When our dog went in for surgery, I thought that was the worst thing we were going to have to face. I broke down and cried several times. One of the times I broke down was during a regular moment, when Austin was eating. As he usually does, he started throwing his food over the side of his tray and onto the floor. There was no dog around to eat up the food on the floor. It wasn't the mess that upset me; it was not having Chance around us.

Once again, I found myself crying today thinking about what we would find out when we go to see the oncologist. Luckily, I had to take a shower and so I could cry in there while Payton watched TV so that she wouldn't see me crying. I don't want her to worry.

As sad as we are as a family, at the end of the day today, we know that we got to spend another day with the best puppy ever. He's finally allowed on the furniture; it just took a little bout with cancer to make me change my rules. He's getting spoiled with wet dog food. It smells gross and looks super gross, but he gobbles it down and that's what matters. He's our puppy, best friend, and protector, but most importantly, he is our family.
The day we brought Chance home
Prayer for My Best Friend
Bless his nose, so wet and cold.
Bless his fur, so soft to hold.
Bless his tail, it wags so strong
When I tell him he may come along.
Bless those ears that stand so stout
Except when one’s turned inside out.
Bless those eyes so filled with love
That surely comes from God above.
For up in Heaven the Angels sing,
They fly with harps on silver wings.
But here on Earth there can be no doubt,
The Angels bark as they run about.

— Brennan Boyle, age 12

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