Friends

A Photo Tribute to Casey, our good friend

2006-06-16T18:49:00.002-05:00

We hope you enjoy the pictures of Casey's life. Casey has touched the lives of so many people. It was difficult to select a limited number of photos. Going through the pictures brought smiles, laughter and tears. Thank you to our niece, Shelby, for helping to select the photos to use.

Our Dude is now gone, but he lives in our hearts and in my computer. He made many friends effortlessly. With a warm smile, a gentle twinkle in his eye, he could melt the most stubborn of hearts.

Casey, we love and miss you. You will be in our hearts forever.

Love,

Tim and Pat

In Memory Of...

2006-06-11T20:47:00.000-05:00

Casey
April 5, 1995 - June 9, 2006

On Friday afternoon, June 9th, it was with great sadness that we decided it was time to help Casey move out of this life and into his next one.

His condition deteriorated rapidly after Wednesday. On Thursday, he didn't move around much at all. He got up to eat, go to the bathroom and go for his last Rodale visit. We both slept downstairs with him Thursday night. He seemed uncomfortable because he moved around a lot. His breathing became more labored. On Friday morning, the swelling in his head was unbelievable. We had never seen it like this before. He could hardly open his eyes. With a lot of coaxing and work, Tim did manage to get him into the car to take him for a ride. He didn't get up to look at the horse and ducks like he always did. And, when they came back, he didn't eat all his breakfast (first time). According to Tim, his breathing became more labored as the morning went on. Again, at lunchtime, he coaxed him to eat and to go outside. Tim called me at work around 1:00 and told me how bad it was getting. He then called Anita Curtis, who confirmed our thoughts that Casey was ready to move on. She said it was hard for him to breathe, and that he had a pounding headache and didn't want to open his eyes because of the brightness. I came home, and Casey did get up to greet me at the door. He managed a smile and wagging tail, but he laid back down again. Tim arranged for Dr. Cummings to come to our house after his last office appointment. Casey began breathing really hard. It was obviously difficult for him to breathe, and I told Tim that we couldn't let him breathe like this for several more hours until Dr. C would get here. We would have liked him to be at home when it happened, but we couldn't watch him struggle to breathe any longer, so we took him to the vet. When we asked Casey if he wanted to go to Dr. Cummings to help him, he got right up and managed to walk out to our patio. From that point, Tim had to carry him to the car. We were both with Casey when he passed into his new life. It was difficult, but it was also a relief to know that he now felt good again.

We all miss him terribly. Tim and I go to do usual things like give him his meals, pills, take him outside and realize we don't have to. We always took him with us as much as we could when we went away, and it was routine for me to move my seat front, so he would have room to step down on the back floor to get out of the car. Each time we have been in the car, I have gone to move my seat front for him to get out. It's those times that are difficult. Tigger and Roo are both showing subtle signs that someone is missing. They are both skittish when we come in the door or when they hear noises. Their alert system is gone. They knew Casey's different barks which told them when it was just us coming or when it was someone else. Tigger and Roo were not themselves for about the past week or so. Tigger was not eating well, and Roo who is usually inactive, was running around like a nut. After we came home Friday without Casey, Tigger ate all her dinner, and Roo hasn't been running around anymore. Roo, whose inflammatory bowel disease is triggered by stress, has started acting up again this morning. It had been under control for quite a while.

We want to thank everyone who affected Casey's life in some way. We can't name everyone but wish to thank some very special people:

Dr. Donna, thank you for taking care of Casey in many ways. You helped him with his skeletal and muscular problems over the years, and helped him feel better from his symptoms of the tumor with your energy work. Casey loved you, not only as a person who made his body feel better, but as a friend too. It was obvious by the excitement he showed each time we told him he was going to see you. We are grateful to you for everything you did for him and for all the occasions you made time to fit him into your schedule in these last months. Thank you, also, for recommending Dr. Cummings to us.

Thank you, Dr. Cummings, for taking care of Casey the second half of his life. Dr. C, you are an exceptional person, whom we are so grateful to have met and have taking care of our pets. Without you, Casey would not have lived as long as he did. You not only have an incredible amount of knowledge, but you truly love what you do. You have always been so compassionate whenever you had to deliver sad news and again in Casey's final minutes. Words cannot express our gratitude to you.

Anita Curtis, thank you for helping us to communicate with Casey. You have an incredible talent that is priceless. Without you, we would not have known some of the times when Casey had pain or was uncomfortable because he didn't show it. You also offered us advice on several occasions, which we appreciate. And, when Casey began having pressure from the weight of the fluid he was carrying, you told us about Chris Treml who could possibly help him.

Chris Treml, thank you so much for helping Casey get some relief and energy over the past two months. You gave him more quality to his life during this period and also helped us communicate with him regularly.

Thank you to all the people who have cared about and prayed for Casey and us during his battle. We met and became closer with many people because of Casey. We appreciate your love and support. It made going through this a little easier. Thank you also, to everyone who stayed with Casey when we didn't want to leave him alone, to everyone who wanted to see him (he wanted to see you just as much), and to everyone who did little things to brighten his life. How many dogs have a birthday party thrown for them by someone other than their owners? We are grateful to all of you.

Casey, you have brought so much joy to our lives. You were our protector, our teacher, and the most loyal and loving friend. You were a true fighter through your illness and you showed everyone who met you how to cope with sickness. You put on that happy face to the end. I never really liked dogs before I met you. It's amazing how you opened my heart in so many ways. You could always cheer me up when no one else could. You taught me to look at things differently and taught me things about myself that I didn't even know. Your life was way too short. I'm sure there was more you could have taught all of us. We miss you. You will be in our hearts forever.

Love,

Tim, Pat, Tigger and Roo

We are compiling pictures of Casey to do "his life in pictures". We hope to have it on the site by the end of the week. Please check back.

Another road trip....

2006-06-07T20:31:00.000-05:00

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There are two posts for today. Check out the next one also.

I am getting more tired each day, and it's getting harder to breathe. I don't sleep upstairs anymore. I do go in the basement to be with dad, but going back up the steps is really hard. I go a couple steps and then rest. It's really tiring until I reach the top. Dad is going to have to start carrying me up the steps from now on. I'm still eating, but things aren't moving out of my system like they should be.

On Tuesday afternoon, we went to see Dr. Donna. She said she didn't like the smell of my breath. That told her that things were not flowing through my intestines as they should. She did some work to try to open it, and it would open a bit more, but she couldn't get it to stay open. She said it will cause toxins to start backing up into my organs. We weren’t scheduled to see Dr. Cummings, but he had someone tell mom and dad that he didn't think it would be long until I pass on based on the symptoms told to him. I feel at ease with this now because mom and dad have started looking for a puppy.

Today we went to another breeder. It was Golden Acres, and the breeder is Sandy Lutcza. It was in Dingmans Ferry which is 1 1/2 hours north of where we live. It was cool again, but it was raining most of the trip. We saw mountains again, but they weren't as big as the ones we saw on Saturday. I didn't get out of the car at this place. Mom and dad went inside to see these puppies. They said there were 10 of them. They brought one out to the car for me to see. It was a female. I didn't show much interest, so mom and dad are trying to figure out what I thought. I tried to tell them I didn't want to scare her. Check out the pictures of the mom, Shiver, the dad, Nash, the puppies and mom smelling puppy breath for the first time. She didn't know me as a puppy so she never smelled puppy breath. After we left, mom and dad were trying to find a place where we wouldn't get wet to stop to feed me. We went to a car wash. That was fun! They used my ramp as a table for me to eat. Then dad had to take me to go potty. It was raining, and dad didn't bring a jacket so he put holes in a trash bag to make a poncho. He looked funny. We were supposed to stop at Rodale on the way back, but it was raining so we didn't. I think we're going there Thursday morning.

Since I don't know how long I'll feel like staying yet, I want to thank everyone who cares about me and has been praying for me. I've enjoyed meeting everyone. It lifted my spirits to see everyone, and it gave me more reason to stay as long as I possibly could. Thank you to my special friends at Rodale who wanted to see me at least once every week. I loved those visits and looked forward to them just like you did. I also want to thank Joey, Shelly, Shelby, Amanda, Donna and Grammy who all stayed with me at times when mom and dad had to go away. I was glad you stayed with me so I wasn't alone.

Life is short.
Cherish it.
Do what you want.
Treasure what you have.
And love who you want.

Love,
Casey

"Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot little puppies." - Gene Hill

Trip to Amy Lawson on Saturday, June 3, 2006

2006-06-07T18:53:00.000-05:00

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In the last update, there weren't many details or any pictures about our trip on Saturday. We went to McConnellsburg which is about 3 hours west of Emmaus. It was a long trip, but we stopped two times along the way. I got out of the car and stretched and did my business. It was a beautiful drive. It was cloudy and cool which I loved. There were a lot of mountains. We went through three tunnels that go through mountains. They were the Tuscarora Mountain tunnel, the Kittatinny tunnel, and the Blue Mountain tunnel. Amy lives on top of a beautiful mountain, and she breeds goldens and horses too! I didn't get out of the car because there were a lot of goldens that came running and had too much energy for me. We saw five puppies. They brought them out by the car so I could see them. There was also one puppy who was still there from the last litter. He was 13 weeks old, and he was adopted, but hadn't been picked up yet. I was feeling pretty good because I love to go for rides and because mom and dad started searching for a puppy.

A tiring time.....

2006-06-06T04:39:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry I haven't updated the website in a while. Things are getting more and more tiring for me. I don't go upstairs to bed with mom and dad anymore. One of them usually sleeps downstairs on the sofa to be with me.

Over the weekend, we went to visit a breeder to see puppies. I told mom and dad through Chris that they needed to start looking for a puppy because I wouldn't be here much longer, and they need to have a dog. Through Chris yesterday, I told mom and dad that I liked the lighter colored puppy, but mom and dad didn't know which one I meant because they didn't see a reaction from me when we were there. It was a long drive to get there, but I was happy, and the swelling in my face was really down. I didn't get out of the car when we were there though because those dogs had too much energy for me.

Yesterday, dad had to be away in the afternoon for work. Mom's mom stayed with me until mom came home from work. Grammy was worried about me. She just kept watching me. Mom came home early to be with me. She wanted to take me for a ride, but I didn't want to go. When she packed her lunch, I didn't even get up to go and have red peppers. She brought some to me though. I'm just so tired. After mom and dad had dinner, Donna stopped to see me for a few minutes. I managed enough energy for a short jog to go out back to meet her. Mom and dad told her it's the most energy they've seen from me in quite a while. She said it made her day. I'm glad when I make people happy because seeing people makes me happy too.

Love,
Casey

"Dogs are our link to paradise. They don't know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring--it was peace." - Milan Kundera

Another uncomfortable day....

2006-05-30T20:49:00.000-05:00

Last night it was hard going up the steps to go to bed again. I stood looking at the bed knowing I can't get up there anymore, but I wish I could. Mom and dad were sad too because they could tell what I was thinking. This morning, the swelling was worse than it's been. There was even fluid on the top of my head, and it doesn't even leave my face anymore. Going down the steps was even hard. I didn't want to eat or even move around. Then dad asked if I wanted to go for a ride. That sounded good. But, getting into the car was hard too. I got my front legs onto the ramp, and then I just stood there. I had to get up enough energy to lift my back legs up. They're huge now too. It's tiring carrying all this extra weight. Even though the ride doesn't make the swelling go away like it used to, it makes me feel better. After we came back, I felt like eating then. It was an uncomfortable day, and the heat makes it worse. I got ice cubes throughout the day. They taste good when it's hot. And, I always get up enough energy to go and have red peppers when mom packs her lunch. Tomorrow I have a session with Chris. Maybe she can help me feel better.

Love,
Casey

"Old dogs, like old shoes, are comfortable. They might be a bit out of shape and a little worn around the edges, but they fit well." - Bonnie Wilcox 'Old Dogs, Old Friends'

Memorial Weekend....

2006-05-29T19:40:00.000-05:00

My swelling over the past several days continues to get worse. My face is swollen most of the time now, and there is more in my back legs, chest and belly area. Rides help it go down in my face a little bit, but the swelling doesn't stay down for long. I'm really tired too. When I go up the steps, I have to rest two times until I get to the top. But, mom and dad coax me to go up at night to sleep because it's cooler upstairs. It is so hot outside for me now.

On Saturday, my face was huge when we woke up because it didn't go down much Friday. Mom and dad and I went for a ride in the morning. We went to the farm again and saw the animals, and then we watched two horses. One of them kept running back and forth in the field. Then we found a creek and sat and listened to it and watched squirrels playing. Dad forgot to take the camera along, so we don't have any pictures. Saturday afternoon, mom and dad went away for a big part of the day. Mom's sister Shelly, her daughter Shelby, and Shelby's friend Amanda came to stay with me when they were gone. After they got here, Shelly was crying because it made her sad how my face looked. Shelby and Amanda brought dolls along to play with, and they fed me treats. Shelby held green beans in her mouth instead of giving them to me with her hand. She likes to do that. One of the neighbors called and told Shelly that a skunk was in their yard and was nose to nose with their dog and then was running after their kids. They wanted to warn us to be careful when we went outside. But, we didn't see any skunk when I had to go out. Mom and dad came home for a while and fed me, Tigger and Roo. Tigger didn't want to eat though. Then they had to go away again, and Donna stayed with me later. She was reading, and sometimes she read out loud to me. And, when it got cooler outside, we sat outside for a while, but then I heard gunshots from the gun club and I wanted to go inside. She gave me treats too. I missed mom and dad because they were gone, but I got lots of attention and treats from everybody who stayed with me.

On Sunday, mom and dad had lots of errands to run. They took me along, and we had the air conditioning on in the car. I sat up a lot while we were driving, and every time we stopped at a place, one of them stayed in the car with me. My face went down after that, but it swelled again a few hours after we got home.

Today I felt about the same. Dad was clipping my nails, and he cut one too short, and it was bleeding for a long time. Dad kept holding the styptic pads on, but it kept bleeding. Mom was really upset at first, then she calmed down. She then held the pads on and pushed harder and held my foot up the air. It finally started slowing down, and she got it to stop. Then she took wet cloths to clean the dried blood out of the fur on my foot. She was being so careful so she wouldn't bump the nail. They were afraid it would start bleeding again. After she was done, she laid her head down next to mine, and I was licking her face and hand. I don't usually do that to her. She started to cry then. She said she knew I was saying thank you. Dad went away in the afternoon to a picnic with his relatives, and mom stayed home with me. I was happy when he got home. I don't like it when he's not here. I feel better when everybody is at home.

Till next time...

Love,
Casey

A week of visits....

2006-05-25T19:34:00.000-05:00

Things with me are about the same. My swelling seems to be slowly increasing. In the mornings now, I'm not very hungry when I wake up. They told dad that there is probably fluid around my belly so that's why I don't feel hungry. He gets me moving first, and that moves the fluid, so then I feel hungry. I don't go upstairs with mom and dad to bed every night anymore. Most days, I spend a lot of time just lying around, but I sometimes get little spurts of energy and want to play. I look forward to the great food I'm getting and the times when I get to see people.

On Tuesday, some of my friends from Rodale came to MY HOUSE to see me instead of me going to see them. The phone rang, and then dad told me we had to go outside because the girls from Rodale were coming to see me. I ran outside and waited in the alley for them to come. As soon as I saw the car, I was barking because I was so excited. When they got close enough, I could see it was Heather, Linette and Susan. They came into the yard with us. They said they didn't have any treats for me, so dad went inside to get some for them to give to me. They got to see Tigger and Roo at the door too.

Dad took me to Rodale on Thursday morning. A lot of people came out to see me. The usual people like Heather, Linette, Susan, Joanne, Melissa, and Ann were there. Andrea and Sharon came to see me again, and I met someone new -- Dennis who works in the mail room. Marian also came out to see me. Heather had red peppers for me again. I can always count on her to give me treats I love. And, Heather gave me a new ball too. She said it glows in the dark. I'll have to see tonight. Everybody was playing with me with my ball for a bit. I love all the attention everyone gives me. But then I heard a train coming, and I wanted to get back in the car. I don't like those loud noises. Soon after that, we came back home. Mom came home for lunch, and when she left to go back to work, I didn't feel like going outside to her car. It's getting hot for me, and it makes me really tired. When mom came home from work, my face was big again. She gave me ice cubes to chew and then some peanut butter in my bone. That was great, and it helped the swelling in my face go down a little bit. Now I'm just going to rest again.

I hope everyone has a nice, long weekend. Heather, you have a nice vacation next week.

Love,
Casey

2006-05-21T20:51:00.000-05:00

Friday wasn't a good day. My face was swollen all day, and I was mopey. Mom and dad took me for a ride, and that didn't even help. I didn't even want to sit up and stick my nose out the window. I didn't even go upstairs to sleep Friday night. My back legs are retaining a lot of fluid now just like my front legs, and there's more in my belly too. It makes it hard to go up the steps.

Saturday morning my face was really huge because it didn't go down much Friday, and it grew bigger over night. In the afternoon, mom was in her garden and flower beds so I sat outside. My face got better, but I didn't have much energy. We all went for a ride later in the day, and I got a little more energy and was happier after that.

Today was another so-so day. I don't seem to have a lot of energy the past few days like I did in the middle of last week. Mom and dad are upset because they try to get me to play, and I don't want to. I understand that this is the natural progression of this disease. Not much else to say.

Love,
Casey

Rodale visit, but later scary thunderstorms....

2006-05-19T06:47:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was an ok day. The morning started out good. After we all had breakfast, mom, dad and I went for a ride. They went into a building, and I could see them through the window. They wanted me to come in, but I didn't want to get out of the car. Then we went to see my friends at Rodale. Thank you, Heather, for having peppers for me again. You're swell! When we got back, mom and dad went away by themselves, but they told me they would be back for lunch. After lunch, mom was gone in the afternoon, and I was in the basement with dad while he worked. Then thunderstorms came. I don't like them. I was uneasy then. After dinner, mom and dad had to go away again. They're leaving me alone more than they were. I don't like being alone. I like to be with people. When they came back, my hips hurt, and it hurt when I walked. Mom was worried. She told dad I was walking funny. Dad said maybe I was stiff. Then they kept trying to get me to walk, and it did start to feel better.

This morning dad had to coax me to eat breakfast until we got to the good stuff in the can. My face is swollen again. I have had some pretty good days, so I have to expect that they won't all be good.

Have a good weekend, everyone.

Love,
Casey

Another pretty good day....

2006-05-18T05:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a pretty good day. We had a session with Chris, and I felt better after that. Some of the things Chris does are animal communication, energy work, kinesiology, and reiki (on humans too). We found Chris through Anita Curtis who also does animal communication. Anita has helped mom and dad know when I was having pain and other problems that they didn't know about. See links to their websites on the right side of the page under Links.

I didn't have very good days on the weekend, and Chris helped mom and dad realize that I was upset because dad was stressed about his one job. And, when dad was relieved, I was happier too. I try to talk to mom and dad, but sometimes they don't get it, and that's when Anita and Chris help them out. Chris also let mom and dad know that I really don't like one of the Chinese herbs because it's bitter. She also told them I do want to keep taking it though because it seems to be helping. I had more energy yesterday after the session too. We went to pick up dad's car at the garage, and before dad could set up the ramp, I jumped right into the car like I used to. It felt great to be able to do that again. Also, I've been having trouble going up the stairs at bedtime. Last night, I went right up the stairs without hesitating or stopping. I seem to be slowly feeling better and better.

Today when I woke up, my face had a little swelling, but less that it has been. It looks like today might be another good day.

Have a good day, everyone.

Love,
Casey

Today was a little better...

2006-05-16T22:02:00.000-05:00

This morning I had an appetite when I woke up. My face stayed swollen for over half the day, and I didn't feel like doing much. But, later in the day, the puffiness went down, and I had more energy. I played tug with dad a little bit. After dinner, we went to see Dr. Donna. She adjusted me and made me feel better. She said because of the larger amount of swelling on my left side, it's causing my muscles to work harder on that side and is moving bones in my spine. This is the first time she has seen me since I'm taking the Chinese herbs. She says it is working. She said the fluid is not so dense and hard. It is more like liquid now which is a good thing because that will help it to be moved out of my body. When I came home after seeing her, I wanted to play more. Thank you, Dr. Donna, for making me feel better.

Dr. Donna brought her dog, Zia to the vet because she has had diarrhea for over a week. We all hope and pray Zia will be ok.

Mom wanted to share the following quote with everyone. She heard it from her friend, Laurie Shenkman who lost her golden, Hank at the end of March.

"If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went." - Will Rogers

Love,
Casey

A not so good day....

2006-05-15T22:24:00.000-05:00

Today when I woke up, my face was really puffy and I wasn't hungry. Dad waited about an hour and tried to feed me again. He and mom were trying all different things to get me to eat. They did manage to get all my medicines in me either by putting them down my throat or mixing them with food. But, then my good food tastes yucky. I didn't want to do much today either. I did better with food and meds at lunch and dinner, but I just felt blah today. Mom was telling dad she thinks the humidity must be affecting me because the temperatures are low.

I must go to bed now. Last night I had a hard time going up the steps. I hope tonight is easier, and tomorrow is a better day.

Love to all,
Casey

Friends, Playing, and More New Friends.....

2006-05-14T19:14:00.000-05:00

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Thursday and Friday were good days. The swelling is still there, but I had energy. I even did a bit of a slow run in the yard both days. We went to Rodale on Friday morning, and there were signs in the window where Heather, Linette and Susan sit. In the pictures, you can see a picture of me focused on the door waiting for everyone to come out and see me. The usual people came out to see me, and Heather had peppers for me again. Later in the day on Friday, dad and I were playing tug with my sheet and towel. I love to play tug, and I'm happy I have the energy to do it again. Mom and dad said I have spunk in my step again.

Saturday was kind of a mopey day, but I didn't feel as bad as before I was taking the Chinese herbs. Saturday evening, we went for a ride back to the Da Bar farm. Lots of animals were out this time. They were near the barn and came running to the fence when we got there. They must have remembered our car. We were watching them, and a lady named Ann Miller who lives nearby came to feed them. Her horse and two pigs live on the farm. She told us the names of a lot of the animals. Mom was trying to write them down, but she missed some of them. The ones she got were: the two pigs are Millie and Winston (dark pig), the big goat with the huge horns is Ying, the chicken is Spike, the donkey is Lollipop, the white goat is Frosty, and the small black goat is Silverado. Mom says sorry she missed the names of the other goats. Ann told us she's a 1st grade teacher. Her horse is used to do carriage rides. They do the rides in Emmaus for the Old Fashioned Christmas. They also do hayrides and are available to rent for parties and other events. The name of the man who owns the farm is Dave, but I didn't catch his last name. They were coming back with the horse and carriage from an event in Lansdale. We didn't get a picture of Ann's horse because he went from his trailer into the barn. It was starting to thunder, and I got scared so I laid down in the car. The horse you see in the pictures is one we saw after we left the farm. Dad was trying to take his picture, and he kept walking along the fence. Dad had to keep backing up to try to take his picture. It was getting dark then so we went home.

Today was an ok day. I wasn't super mopey, but I didn't have as much energy as I did Thursday and Friday. Donna came, and I started barking and running to her, and I got a dizzy spell. Mom had to hold me steady until it passed. Dad came out in the middle of it, and he held onto me too. She wasn't here long. She came back later again, and she was hiding something behind her back. I knew it was for me. It was sardines. Dad said they're gross, but I loved 'em. Nothing else exciting happened today, but I got great food again. I don't really like those Chinese herbs (sometimes I spit it out), but the liver and the meaty stuff I get now are awesome. Mom has vacation this week, and she has a lot planned, and dad is really busy with work now too. But they said we'll try to get to Rodale to visit one day. Enjoy the pictures!

Till next time...keep love in your heart!

Casey

A Day of Road Trips to my Drs....

2006-05-10T19:46:00.000-05:00

Today was a good day. Even though it was pretty warm outside, I had energy and wanted to play. Maybe that yummy liver is giving me energy. Dad and I played a few times today. First in the morning after mom left for work we played, then we went to Dr. Cummings to pick up pills for me. Then we came back and dad worked until lunch time. After lunch, dad worked again. Late in the afternoon, we went to see Dr. Draper again. He thinks the swelling in my chest and belly is less dense than it was last week. My weight was the same so that probably means no more fluid accumulated (big word for a dog, huh!) since last week. He didn't stick me with any needles today, he just felt my body and listened to my heart. Now he gave me two more Chinese herbs that are supposed to attack the tumor. And, because of him, I get to eat all these yummy foods. I guess he's an ok guy.

When mom and dad were having dinner, mom said there were baby birds coming to the feeders now. She said some of those birds could have been born on my hair. That's cool -- those birds are comfy and warm thanks to my hair. :)

Till next time, be happy!

Casey

Liver, Chicken, Sardines...Yum Yum!

2006-05-09T20:44:00.000-05:00

Sorry, I haven't done updates for a few days. The days were mostly the same as usual. I get some energy, but mostly I rest.

My face was swollen again this morning. Dad took me for a ride because that usually helps the swelling go down. It did again. On the way back, we stopped at Rodale, one of my favorite places. So many people come out to see me. Today I met two new people -- Sharon and Andrea. They came out with Heather, Susan and mom. Then Joanne, Mel and Dennis came out too. I missed you, Linette. They said you were home because your son was sick. I hope he's feeling better. Mom didn't feel well yesterday either. She came home from work and went to bed without eating dinner. I could never do that. Food is one of the things that makes me feel better. Oh yeah, I forgot, thanks Heather, for bringing me red peppers again when we were at Rodale. And, tell Barb thank you for cutting them special for me. I'm getting to eat all kinds of good stuff since we went to Dr. Draper. He told mom and dad stuff to feed me to give me certain vitamins and iron. I got liver for dinner tonight, and I had sardines yesterday. And I got a new canned food that has chicken and turkey in it. Yum, I loved them all.

Dad talked to Dr. Draper today. He told him that there hasn't been much change since we started the Chinese herbs and vitamins. We go to see him Wednesday again because he has some other ideas to try. Even though I'm not feeling much different, I am enjoying the new foods I'm getting to eat.

Till next update...thank you again to everybody for caring about me.

Casey

Hot, Yucky Day...

2006-05-04T20:23:00.000-05:00

Today wasn't a good day. I woke up with a swollen face, and it stayed like that most of the day. It was hot for me too. I didn't want to go outside, didn't want to play or chew bones. I didn't want to do anything. The heat makes me feel really tired and worn out. When it started to cool down this evening, I finally started to feel a little better. But, I'm still tired. I got up from a nap to do an update. But, I think I'll go lie back down again.

Pigs, Goats, Horses, Chickens and Friends... Oh My!

2006-05-03T19:20:00.000-05:00

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On Monday, we went to Dr. Draper. We were there most of the afternoon. He gave me some new vitamins and minerals and some Chinese herbs that could help me have more energy and reduce the swelling. When we dropped mom off at work, Heather and Linette came out and brought me water and red peppers. They are so good to me. That tasted really good, and they knew just what I needed. We got to see pictures of Hailey's and Bella's doghouse that Heather built. It's really cool! Check it out in the pictures.

On Tuesday when I woke up, there wasn't much swelling in my face, but it got worse later in the day. But, I had energy that day. When mom came home, we were all playing. I was even fetching my squeaker ball for a little bit in the house. Dr. Donna called to see if Dr. Draper thought he could help me feel better. She is always so concerned about me.

Today my face was big when I woke up. I felt mopey and didn't feel like doing anything. I got an email from Heather this morning checking in to see how I was feeling. That made me feel a little better. She's always concerned about me too. Then dad took me for a ride on country roads again. We drove by farms and saw horses, goats, a pig, and a chicken. The goat had big things sticking out of the top of its head. It made me laugh. The chicken kept staring at me, and it was following us along the fence. Dad drove real slow and took pictures. Then we saw two horses far down in a field, then they came up to the fence to see us. My swelling went down a little bit after the ride. I didn't feel like doing much after that. I had a little more pep when mom got home. We went outside after dinner, and I was chewing a big stick. Tigger was out too, and mom had to keep chasing her because she would try to run out of the yard. Roo was on the upstairs porch. She doesn't come out in the yard with us. I think she's afraid, and she feels safe on the porch upstairs. I'm antsy now. I'm just pacing in the basement. Gotta go do something. Bye for now.

5 Day Update...

2006-04-30T20:43:00.000-05:00

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Wednesday, April 26th and Thursday, April 27th weren’t such good days. The swelling in my face didn’t go down much during the day, and I didn’t have much energy. I had more coughing these days, but it was less on Thursday. On Wednesday, we went to Rodale, and Heather showed me a model of the doghouse she was going to build for Hailey and Bella. She had pictures of Niko, Wyatt and me on the deck too.

Friday, April 28th was a good day. I had energy and no coughing. Dad played with me, and dad had to go get stuff so I got to go along for a ride. Then we made a surprise stop at Rodale. Lots of people came out to see me, but Heather wasn’t there. I missed you, Heather. Then a train came, and I didn’t like that. I lay down on the seat, and then some of the people went back to work. After the train passed, everyone else said bye to me and went back to work too. Then Dad took us home, and we had lunch. Then Dr. Donna came to see me. She said I was doing well today.

Saturday I was mopey in the morning. Mom wasn’t home, and dad was on the computer. When mom came home, we had lunch, and then dad went away. Mom and I went outside. She trimmed and weeded, and I was lying on the patio. When dad came home, we all went for a ride. I felt better after that. Rides always seem to make me feel better.

On Sunday morning mom and dad went for groceries like they usually do. They said they saw Heather and her friend, Kim. Dad saw them first, and Heather asked how I was doing. I don’t know Kim, but mom said she asked about me too. Heather told mom and dad she finished the house for Hailey and Bella. Bella, why don’t you go in your new house like Hailey does? Mom and dad took me for another ride today. We went on country roads so I could sniff out the window. We saw cows and horses and lots of nice houses with big yards. Mom and dad did work around the house when we came home, so I rested. They have been trying to get me to drink water, but I haven’t been thirsty. I have been hungry though. When they were having dinner, mom was throwing me beans. I was so focused on waiting for beans that I didn’t even care when Tigger laid her head on my leg. Check out the pictures from the past few days.

Today was a good day!

2006-04-25T19:08:00.000-05:00

I had some coughing throughout the day, but I was feeling good today, and I didn't get stressed when I was coughing. After some swelling when I woke up this morning, my face looked normal today. I had lots of energy today. I was outside chewing on sticks, I played with dad with my towels and balls, and I chewed on my bones. I got to have red peppers with Mom at lunch time today, and we saw more birds taking my hair for their nests. She came home for a couple hours around lunch time because dad went to jail for MDA today. He helped raise money for sick kids. It was a really good day for all of us! :)

Meet an exceptional man... my vet

2006-04-24T20:06:00.000-05:00

This is a picture of Dr. Cummings, the man who has made it possible for me to still be alive today. We found Dr. C through Dr. Donna Gigliotti (see her picture below) who has also played a big part in me feeling as good as I still do. Dr. C’s early diagnoses of problems I’ve had over the last five years have made it possible for me to live as long as I have. Thank you, Dr. Cummings, for all you have done for me. Mom, dad and I are so grateful to you that there aren’t words to convey it.

Dr. C saw me today after not seeing me for two months. He said things are progressing – the fluid has reached my abdomen, groin and back legs, and it’s taking a toll on my body. The muscles in my back are wasting, and my heartbeat is irregular. But, he said I have a great will to live. That is thanks to all the people who care about me and make life worth living.

After not having any coughing episodes in several months, I had some coughing yesterday and today, but it’s not too bad yet. When we took mom back to work after seeing Dr. C, Heather came out to see me, and I was coughing then. Joanne and Linette came to see me too. Heather and Linette said Susan wasn’t at work today. Sorry I missed you, Susan. I always enjoy seeing all of you.

The weekend...

2006-04-23T18:04:00.000-05:00

Mom and dad had errands to run on Friday, and they took me along. Friday after dinner, I got to see Dr. Donna, my chiropractor. She said I was looking pretty good that day, but she said that mom and dad should take me to the vet to see if they have stockings for my legs or anything else to keep the fluid out of them. She said if he can't do anything, she has the name of a vet who does acupuncture and Chinese herbs, and maybe one of those would help.

My swelling is getting worse. Saturday morning when I woke up, my face was bigger than it's ever been, and it hardly went down all day even though mom and dad were massaging it and playing with me. I wasn't very hungry when I woke up on Saturday or Sunday. My face was huge Sunday morning because it never really went down on Saturday. I didn't want much to eat at all. Mom and dad had to go away for a while in the afternoon, and when they came home, I had a coughing spell. This probably means the fluid is getting into my lungs. After it was over, mom and dad took me for a ride in the car. We drove slow on country roads so I could sniff. I would sniff for a while then have to lie down to rest, but then I would get up and stick my nose out the window again. I did that over and over. After we came back, mom noticed that the swelling in my face had gone down a lot. I was hungry, and I ate all my dinner. As I write this (I type pretty good, don't I?), it's been almost four hours since the coughing spell.

Mom said she has to go back to work tomorrow. But she has to leave early because on Monday afternoon, we're going to see my vet, Dr. Cummings. Mom and dad want to see if there's anything else he can do for the fluid or what to do if the coughing gets worse.

Hope everyone had a good weekend. Thank you again to everyone who likes to see me and who is praying for me. Seeing people and knowing how much you all care about me makes me happy. And even though I can't do a lot of what I used to do, I am still enjoying life. I hear mom cutting. My red peppers are calling me. Gotta go. :)

Diary Update....

2006-04-18T19:17:00.000-05:00

The swelling was bad again when I woke up Monday and Tuesday. It takes longer into the day for it to go down now. My legs are getting heavier too. I wasn't sure if I wanted to go up the steps to go to bed last night. But, I got enough energy to go up. Today I didn't feel like doing much, and I was sad because dad was gone most of the afternoon. Mom was home from work, so we spent time sitting out in the yard. She sits in the sun sometimes, but I sit in the shade. Tigger comes out with us sometimes. Mom puts her on a leash because she wouldn't stay in the yard like I do. Roo doesn't want to come outside. When Tigger wasn't out, we watched birds coming to the feeders to eat and to take my hair for their nests. They're taking a lot. It's good mom and dad saved it when they brush me. Today we were sitting real close to the feeders, and the birds still came. They know we won't hurt them. Mom shared her apple with me when we were outside, and she gives me red peppers at lunch. I was happier when dad came home, and I chewed on my bone and then played a little with mom.

I heard mom say she has to go to Rodale on Wednesday to pick up a hoagie sheet. I don't usually go away with just mom, but maybe I'll go along or maybe I'll ask dad to go too.

Happy Birthday Dad!

2006-04-17T05:31:00.000-05:00

Today is dad's birthday. Happy Birthday Dad from me, Tigger, Roo and Mom.

I've had a pretty good weekend. I was a little uncomfortable on Saturday when it got warm outside, but I still felt ok. On Sunday, it was my kind of weather. Mom and me were out in the yard for a few hours enjoying the weather. Some birds came to the feeders again while we were sitting close to them. Mom put out some of my hair and other stuff for the birds to take for their nests, and they were taking my hair. Little birdies will have my soft hair to be born on. I have been hungry every day when I wake up, and I eat all my food right away. My swelling is still there, but it isn't bothering me so much. Thank you to everybody who is praying for me. It's working.

Remember, next Tuesday dad gets locked up to raise money for MDA. If anyone wants to donate to help Jerry's kids, please see the link at the top right of the page or contact mom or dad. Thank you to all who donated so far.

Love, Casey

Feeling pretty good!

2006-04-14T20:53:00.000-05:00

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On Wednesday the 12th, Dad took me to Rodale again. We had to park in a different spot because there were trucks there. This time we had a special spot reserved for us. Lots of people came to see me. Having everybody come to see me keeps my spirits up and makes me feel so much better. Thanks to all of you for caring. Heather even brought more peppers for me. She was rubbing my ears in that spot that feels soooo good. That Heather, she's wonderful!

I was feeling really good that day. I have been feeling pretty good since then even though the swelling hasn't gone down. I have been wanting to play a lot. Here are some pictures dad took at Rodale and some pictures of me playing at home with my birthday balloon.

Happy Birthday Niko!

2006-04-12T21:13:00.000-05:00

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From: Hailey, Bella, Wyatt, and Casey.

The weekend...

2006-04-09T20:29:00.000-05:00

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I forgot to say thanks for the email on Friday, Heather. I’m sorry I didn’t reply. My dad was hogging the computer. It was nice of you to check on me.

Saturday morning was like the past days. My face was swollen again but worse. It wasn’t just my lips, but swollen up around my nose. Mom said my face looked round. Mom and dad massaged my face and legs a lot, and the fluid went down. It rained and snowed. I got to go out when it was snowing. Most of the time, we played in the house with my balls and my sheet. I also chewed my bone. I had another dizzy spell after I got excited when Brad (the neighbor boy) came into our yard. But, dad held me until it passed. Dad got me a new step to get into the car. It’s like a ramp so I don’t have to jump. We went for a ride so I could try it out. I was scared to step on it, but I did ok with it. When it was time to go to bed, I didn’t want to come up from the basement so I stayed there. During the night I moved onto my bed in the living room. That was the first night I didn’t sleep upstairs with mom and dad.

Sunday morning Mom came down and saw my face was big again. She kept rubbing it to drain the fluid. I ate some breakfast, but then I had to go outside. It was cold, the way I like it. I stayed out and just lay in the grass enjoying the cool air for a long time. Some birds even came to the feeders while I was lying out there. We went for another ride today, and I got to stick my nose out the window. I love doing that as long as we don’t go too fast. We played today too, and I chewed my bone. (Check out the pictures to see how I chewed down the bone.) Mom and dad had to go away after dinner. Joey (my human cousin) came to stay with me while they were gone. Most of the time I just waited at the door for them to come home. On the days mom is home, both mom and dad can rub my face more and drain the fluid faster so then I feel better earlier in the day. The weekend was pretty good.

Friday update...

2006-04-07T19:19:00.000-05:00

I saw Linda, our mail carrier, go by the basement window so I jumped up and started yelling and ran up the stairs. Dad was trying to calm me down, but I was too excited. I had to go see Linda. We went outside, and I ran into the front yard, and Linda came back to say hi to me. She said that I was really swollen now, then she got real quiet and I saw a tear in her eye. She lost her doggie last year, and I think she's still sad. Just then I started to feel dizzy, and dad and Linda supported me so I wouldn't fall over. It didn't last long, and then Linda said she had to go. Then I took a nap. I was happy to get my noon snack. Then I napped again in the afternoon. I felt better at dinner and ate everything. When mom came home from work, I was glad everyone was home. We were out in the yard for a while. I chewed on my bone, and my swelling went down some. After mom and dad ate dinner, dad said we should go for a ride. I was sitting up at the back window and sniffing as we were driving. That made me feel better.

An Update....

2006-04-07T08:10:00.000-05:00

When mom woke up Thursday, she saw my face was big again. Mom brought me my bone. I was still tired so I only chewed a little bit. Except for chewing my bone, it was a boring day compared to my birthday. Dad had to go away today so mom came home to be with me. She tried to play with me, but I was sad cause dad wasn’t here. I did share her apple with her though. It was good. My new bone has lots chewed off it already, and I didn’t show my teeth to dad anymore, Heather. I love to chew my bone (yum), and it makes my face feel better. The swelling doesn’t stay down long after chewing anymore though. Mom showed dad red on my skin near my back legs, and she seemed sad. Then she was feeling where it’s red. I think the fluid is back that far now. Not much else to say.

Today my face is really big again. I’m not very hungry either. And, I don’t feel like chewing my bone right now. Mom and dad keep trying to rub my face, but I don’t want to hold it up for them to do it. I’m just tired.

My Party...

2006-04-05T19:39:00.000-05:00

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Tuesday night when we were going up the stairs to go to bed, I got really tired. I had to stop and rest. That never happened before. My legs are so heavy to lift up the steps now.

When mom woke up Wednesday, she said Happy Birthday to me right away. Then dad did too. Mom started rubbing my face because it was puffy again. I wasn’t very hungry again either. Mom went to work. I took a nap while Dad worked. The phone rang, and dad surprised me with, “Casey, want to go to Rodale?” Duh, I thought. I got excited and ran up the steps. Excitement gives me energy.

We went to Rodale, and Mom and Joanne came out to meet dad and me at the car. I got to go inside again. We went in a different door this time. Heather and Linette were waiting for me at the door. There was a noisy truck there, and I was a little uncomfortable. On the door to the room, there was a sign that said Happy 11th Birthday Casey. We got in the room, and there was a SURPRISE BIRTHDAY PARTY for me. Mom and dad didn’t even know about it. There was a bag that I stuck my nose into, and I could smell good stuff. Oh boy! There were presents for me -- a balloon, red peppers, a tire, and a most excellent bone that smelled out of this world. I also got a card and a picture of Hailey and Bella. Heather unwrapped the bone for me and held it for me to chew on it. Mmmmm! It was so good. Then it was time for my birthday pepper. It was so red and juicy. Heather cut it and fed me. Mom usually washes them first, but I got to have it without it being washed. That Heather and Linette are so cool. That was the best birthday party ever! I missed Susan though. She wasn’t there. Mel, Ann Solt and Karen stopped in to see me too. Then everybody had to go back to work so we left. It was a great party!

Dad gave me the bone when we got home. I chewed it for a long time. I was getting mad at Dad because he wanted to take my bone away. I showed my teeth to him. Dad took it away when he gave me my lunch. Dad gave it back to me about an hour later (all of us can tell time). When dad worked, I took another nap. I got my bone back again when mom and dad ate dinner. They had to take it away again because my gums were bleeding from chewing so hard and long. My face feels great. The swelling is down a lot. Chewing that bone really helped. Tigger is having a ball with MY BALLOON. I’ll get it from her when I feel like it. I need another nap. It was a tiring but great day.

It's My Birthday!!!

2006-04-05T04:43:00.000-05:00

That's what mom and dad keep telling me. They're so excited. Mom has been talking about it for so long.

Dear Diary...

2006-04-04T19:33:00.000-05:00

I had a good weekend. I felt good and played with mom and dad a lot. We played with the squeaker ball, and I even chased and caught it a few times.

On Monday, I didn’t feel so good. My cheeks and legs were fat, and I wasn’t hungry. When mom came home from work, I got excited. When we were going to walk into the house, I almost fell over, but dad caught me. I’ve heard them say that excitement can make the tumor cause dizziness. I guess that’s what that strange feeling is that I get before I fall. Mom and dad were really upset today because they found out that Hank lost his battle to kidney failure. Hank is their friend’s golden angel, and he went to heaven. When mom was packing her lunch, I was waiting for red peppers, and she asked what she was going to do when I’m not here to make her feel better. I tried to tell her I’ll always be with her, but I don’t think she heard me.

Today, (Tuesday) my cheeks swelled over night. I felt like I didn’t have any energy. Dad was out of the shower so we went downstairs. He wanted to feed me, but I didn’t feel very hungry again. I do like the beans though. I just pick them out of the bowl when I’m not very hungry. Dad got a big stick for me this morning. It was very crunchy. I ripped the branches apart real fast. It was fun! Later dad took me to Daytimers so he could get something in a plastic bag. I couldn’t smell anything. This afternoon dad took me to see Dr. Donna. She said the weight of the fluid is pulling on my muscles. As usual, she made me feel better. She tried to drain the fluid, but it went right back into my legs again. She did get it out of my face though. She said mom and dad should keep working the fluid out of my legs and face. Dad asked her what she thought because Dr. C (my vet) thought I would go to heaven (like Hank did) sometime in April. She said she could feel more fluid in me since last week when she saw me. It could keep building or it could stay like this for a while. None of them really know. Mom and dad say I’m a miracle dog. I'm not ready yet. I still have a few more lessons for them.

Oh, I almost forgot. Tomorrow is my birthday! I'll be 11. Wonder what they'll get me?

Hank Shenkman

2006-04-04T08:57:00.000-05:00

1/15/1996 - 3/31/2006
A Memorial

Hank was a loyal family member of mom and dad’s friend.
He lost his battle to kidney failure recently. He will be sadly missed.

"Hank had such a beautiful spirit – he was very regal, dignified and wise. He protected us like a father." - Laurie Shenkman

The King cometh....

2006-04-01T20:37:00.000-05:00

but I have no court!

Attention!

2006-03-31T10:07:00.000-05:00

YO...DOGS...
THIS IS TIGGER...
CATS RULE!...

I AM DONE.

It's Official!

2006-03-30T15:49:00.000-05:00

Now I can get to the Cafe!

My Rodale Ladies...

2006-03-30T15:43:00.000-05:00

You all are sooo good to me!...
Same time tomorrow?

Pics from my road trip to Rodale...

2006-03-30T15:34:00.000-05:00

Yea thats it... a little to the left... oh yes!

Please help!

2006-03-29T15:22:00.000-05:00

My Dad is going to jail! You can help bail him out and help "Jerry's Kids®" at the same time!
Please use the link on the right hand side of this page. (See Links)

Thank You!

Casey

Hard Work...

2006-03-29T09:56:00.000-05:00

Casey playing football...

2006-03-25T16:43:00.000-05:00

Look what I got!

2006-03-23T14:55:00.000-05:00

Thanks Hailey & Bella! I love it!...
Mom & Dad love it too, cause it won't make a mess in the house!

Dr. Donna Rocks!

2006-03-22T20:47:00.000-05:00

This is Dr. Donna Gigliotti, my chiropractor (and more). She is helping me feel soooo much better through my ordeal. I get so excited when I hear we are going to see her. (I cry to get out of the car when I get there.)

Thank You Dr. Donna, You're the best!

'The girl next door'

2006-03-21T20:43:00.000-05:00

Her name is Pumkin...
I think she likes me.

6:00 pm....

2006-03-21T16:08:00.000-05:00

You're Home!

Spring is here!

2006-03-21T15:57:00.000-05:00

Mmmmmm.

It's 5:05...

2006-03-19T21:17:00.000-05:00

and i'm still here!

Even though....

2006-03-19T20:51:00.000-05:00

...my face is swelling, I'm happy and still smiling!

Casey's Landscaping Co. Inc.

2006-03-19T20:45:00.000-05:00

Hard at work!

Want to play?

2006-03-06T20:00:00.000-05:00

This is my favorite!

2006-03-06T19:57:00.000-05:00

Casey & his new ball!

2006-03-06T19:51:00.000-05:00

Thanks Heather!

That was goooood!

2006-03-06T19:50:00.000-05:00

Casey

2006-03-06T19:46:00.000-05:00

Jan '05

The Dude...

2006-03-06T19:38:00.000-05:00

June '04

Happy Birthday!

2006-02-27T16:14:00.000-05:00

Casey just loves balloons!

2006-02-26T20:47:00.000-05:00

Here is Casey back in April of 2004. This is one of my favorite pics!