Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - Chance

It feels so odd to be starting my own thread title. I can't remember the last time I did that here.... I have been somewhat absent from Vetnet for the last few weeks. We lost Chance in the last days of March. His heart finally gave out. We are both very sad and Cassie is like a lost little soul. Chance was a one-of-a-kind dog. He was a therapy dog all of his life and probably greeted over 300 or more folks at the nursing home in that time. He was also loved by our whole village. People who I didn't even know knew his name and would call it out as we walked by! I never found anyone who was afraid of a 100lb Giant Schnauzer named Chance.... He seemed to have 9 lives and recovered from several illnesses including one of the most severe cases of non-regenerative anemia and neutropenia our specialist had ever seen. Each day after he recovered was a bonus day to me. He survived over two years after that. Mark took him for a walk on the day before he died and he met up with a family and their dog that he had always gone to visit when he was well. He did his therapy dog routine even on that day, greeting and wagging his tail, looking to be petted. I have been coming out to read posts here irregularly. I have to say that I feel so proud when I read responses from folks who have been coming here to help others. I read "echoes" of advice that I have given in the past. It makes me feel so good to know that you are here carrying on while I am unable to face it. It truly is about responding to the emotional needs of desperate owners in a timely manner. my best patrice Skansen's Lucky Chance 1998-2010

Patrice NYS

you are the best Patrice, God bless Chance

Josh California

So sorry to hear this news Patrice,Chance sounds as though he will be missed by many people, not just his immediately family... what an impression he made with his life. The comfort and happiness he gave to people, I hope will fill your heart and help to fill the gap he has left there. Maybe in time you will find a friend for Cassie, as it must be so hard for her, I wonder if she understands what has happened to her life long companion...although I'm sure she'll pick up on your sadness. Chance wanted to stay with you as long as he could and he knew you were fighting along with him...if it wasn't for you willing to learn as much as possible about his imha he probably wouldn't have made it the 2 years and more that he did.In the end he was as my Dad said 3 days before he died in October there...'just tired' Please continue to come here and help as you have been and I hope and pray that you and Mark and Cassie find comfort in the wonderful memories. Take care Kathleen and Nollaig

Kathleen North Ayrshire

Dear Patrice I echo what Josh said "you are the best". When I saw the thread, I was too scared to open it, but knew that I must. I am so sad for you on the passing of Chance, as I know full well - we all do - just how much you loved Chance and how much you did for him, absorbing medical text books and knowing just what to do with all that information. I was indeed lucky to be the beneficiary of your knowledge to be able to apply it to Riley, and your information was always on the money. It must be reassuring to you to see the "Patrice" comments that go on and on, and I know I have done that myself. Chance was indeed a "one of a kind" dog - he was yours. Rest easy now dear Chance - you are not only missed by your family, but also the extended family here. Thank you Patrice, and thank you Chance. As the Aussies say, and perhaps the Brits, Im not sure - "a great innings". Silka XXXXX

Silka Melbourne Australia

Patrice, I am so saddened to learn of the loss of your most beloved Chance. Please know that you, Mark and Cassie are in my thoughts and prayers during these most very difficult days.

Joanne MN

Patrice, I'm so sorry to hear about Chance. You have been such a wealth of help and information to everyone on this forum. Hopefully we can help you with your loss as you have helped so many of us before. Steve

Steve VA

Patrice and Family Please accept my heartfelt condolences in the loss of your Chance. Chance touched the lives of so many he met and some he never had met, myself included. Chance was Ginger's inspiration when she was first diagnosed in 2007 and I will never forget how helpful you were to us using Chance as an example. My heart aches for you as I know how you feel right now, but over time the pain will lesson and the memories of the wonderful times you had together will begin to replace your sadness. Chance has truly earned his wings and will have a very special place in Heaven until you met again. Please when you are ready continue to offer your valuable advice and experiences on this forum, as you like Chance are making a big difference in peoples lives. Cheryl & Ginger

Cheryl & Ginger Pinevile Pa

Dear Patrice, I am so sorry you lost your special boy. Chance truly had a purpose in life. Not only as a therapy dog visiting all these people, but through his illness so many of our dogs got help from YOU! The lives of many people and dogs on this forum were saved and improved because of the two of you. Chance was indeed a lucky boy to have had a most wonderful life with you, Mark and Cassie. I am sure you will say the same that you were lucky to have had him, the big boy with the big heart. Please know that you, Mark and Cassie are in my thoughts. With sincere condolences, Brigitte & the poodle boys

Brigitte BC Canada

Patrice, I am so sorry to hear your loss of Chance. He was a very special dog, and I'm sure he will have a special place in the great beyond. When you say one-of-a-kind dog I understand completely. Toqua is my never-have-another-like-her dog. Please find comfort knowing the positive affect Chance had on so many lives, and that he is running happy and healthy in the fields of the Bridge. I hope the wonderful memories of your dear friend comfort your heart during this time. You and your family are in our thoughts. Our deepest condolences, Jessi & Toqua

Jessi BC

It brought a tear to my eye reading this Patrice. We all know how special Chance was to you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this tough time. My deepest sympathies and condolences, Johnny & Tessy

Johnny

Dear Patrice, I'm so sorry to hear your sad news about Chance.You've been an inspiration and wealth of advice to others including myself, Kind thoughts and love, Corrie and Joey.xx

Corrie Dagenham Essex UK

Patrice & family, I know how special Chance was to you and in fact how all dogs are special to you as you have helped us all so much through your experiences with Chance. But the fact that he was a therapy dog made him more a true champion in every way! He did earn his wings with the help of you and your family! Please know you are in our prayers and thoughts! Sincerely,Linda & Holly Beyond the Rainbow As much as I loved the life we had and all the times we played, I was so very tired and knew my time on earth would fade. I saw a wonderous image then of a place that's trouble-free Where all of us can meet again to spend eternity. I saw the most beautiful Rainbow, and on the other side Were meadows rich and beautiful--lush and green and wide! And running through the meadows as far as the eye could see Were animals of every sort as healthy as could be! My own tired, failing body was fresh and healed and new And I wanted to go run with them, but I had something left to do. I needed to reach out to you, to tell you I'm alright That this place is truly wondrful, then a bright Glow pierced the night. 'Twas the Glow of many Candles shining bright and strong and bold And I knew then that it held your love in its brilliant shades of gold. For although we may not be together in the way we used to be, We are still connected by a cord no eye can see. So whenever you need to find me, we're never far apart If you look beyond the Rainbow and listen with your heart

Linda Sapphire

Patrice and Mark, I am so sorry for your loss. Your sharing of all you have learned in your journey with Chance has no doubt impacted so many families. As parents you have truly shown what determination and dedication can do. Your actions gave Chance some extra years even though he was still taken too soon. Thank you for everything you have shared and the time you take to help others It was not just Chance changing lives. Take care Penny

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

Patrice It is with great sadness to read your post today. You and Chance have been a beacon for all of us to follow. Your inspiration, guidence, and knowledge have helped so many of us work our way through these horrendous diseases, and we also have known while helping us you were also going through a living hell with Chance. You and Chance will always have a special place in our hearts. Ron & Cooper

Ron Florida

Dear Patrice, We are so sorry to hear the sad news. Chance will be remembered by so many people because of his therapy work and all of us on this forum who have received encouragement from you because of him. Barb and Tootsie

Barb Ohio

Dear Patrice -- I didn't want to open your post, because I was afraid of the news. My heart goes out to you, Mark, and Cassie. As hard as the grief is, I know you take comfort in the wonderful life you shared with Chance and in the hard fight you waged together against IMHA. You'll always be together, you and your special hero boy. Please take care.

Brenda VA

My heart is broken...I had no idea. I'm so sorry. Sad tears for a brave boy and his wonderful mama who have given so much hope and inspiration to everyone here when we needed it the most. You and your family are in our hearts and prayers, and thankfully there is one more sweet, special furkid to shine the light from above during the dark days of AIHA. huge hugs, melissa and tiggs

melissa slc

Thanks to you both for making my believe Madison could get through AIHA. RIP Chance and Patrice my thoughts are with you at this sad time. Samantha & Madison

Samantha Perth

I am so sorry to hear of Chance's passing. My heart is with you. I don't know what else to say. :(

Mardi Northern Calif

Dear Patrice, I am so sorry to hear that Chance has left for the Bridge. You took amazing care of him and he passed that love, devotion, and care along to those he visited. Take care of yourself now (together with Mark and Cassie) and I send you warm supportive thoughts for your boy Chance. Sadly, Aden

Aden Jerusalem

Dear Patrice - So sad to see your note - I am so sorry for your loss of Chance. It's clear he had an amazing life thanks to the love and care of your family. I hope you and Mark gain comfort from happy memories of your time with him. Best, Bonnie

Bonnie Chicago

Dear Patrice, I am so very sorry to hear about Chance's passing. Chance sounds like he was a wonderful and special dog, who lived a full and happy life. So many people have benefited from his therapy work, I am sure you would be very proud. You are both truly amazing, and I cannot thank-you enough for your advice and support that helped me get Millie through her IMHA battle and now her heart condition. My thoughts are with you, Mark and Cassie during this difficult time. Samantha.

Samantha Geelong Australia

I haven't been here in months and when I saw the first post was from Patrice I was afraid to open it. I am so sorry you've lost Chance. You and Chance have been such an inspiration. I hope you will continue to check in as you have such a wealth of knowledge to share. My thoughts are with you...

nicky gvaz

Patrice: You and Chance have been inspirational - giving us all hope, advice and support over the years. We are truly sorry about Chance's passing. May you find comfort now in the knowledge that he was a very special soul and we all grieve with you. Please know that you, Mark and Cassie are in our thoughts and prayers. Rita, Mike and Sheba

Rita IA

Patrice, You have helped so many of us with words of encouragement, and have always had answers to questions. Words cannot express how sad it is to hear of your loss. remember chance with a smile, everyday for all the joy he brought not only to your life but to all the other lives he touched. Carol and Charlie Doodle

Carol

So sad for you and your family. You have been such a great Mom for Chance and I'm sure he knew how much he was cherished and loved. Will be thinking of you often. Please take care. deb and Duck

Debbie BC Canada

Oh Patrice, I am so sorry to hear about Chance. You were such a such a great Mom to him. You've done so much for everyone here. Often, when I'm thinking of my Ollie, I think of you and Chance also. Please take care, Marla

mj avon

Patrice, you are the best. Thanks for all your advice. Better than any vet with your detailed explanations in "layman's terms". You helped me to come to terms with IMHA and the loss of Scruffy. So sorry you have lost your marvelous and amazing Chance. Julie.

Julie Australia

Dear Patrice, I'm so saddened that Chance is gone....what an amazing life he had with you....he touched so many people....please know you both are in my prayers and thoughts....I am truly sorry for your pain....Tammy

Tammy/Cody N.J.

Patrice, I am so sorry to hear of Chances passing and the pain you are feeling. Both of you bave been a huge inspiration to us all. YO have amde such a positive impact here and have taught so many to learn share their knowledge. Laurie and Wylie

Laurie CA

Dear Patrice I was so sad to read your news of Chances passing. I remember how you helped supporting me when I was losing Billybob. Your words of wisdom were an inspiration to me in our very darkest hours. Thank you - you never lose your best friend because you'll always find them in your heart. Run Free Chance.

Steph Gloucestershire UK

Patrice, Just wanted to say that my thoughts are with you. Your advice and concern for others is truly remarkable. Thank you for all the help you provided me with Macy and best wishes for your grieving of Chance. You are the best. -Darren

Darren Long Beach

Dear Patrice, Please accept my condolences, I was so sorry to see your post. Chance was a lucky guy to have you and Mark rooting for him, cheering him on, advocating for him, and loving him. Rest in Peace Chance. You were such a great support to me and to Kent, and I wish there was something I could say but I cannot find any words that seem adequate. My thoughts are with you and Mark, and Cassie. Christine

Christine Florida

Dear Patrice, I haven't been on this site for a while, and was so saddened to read about your loss of Chance. You have been so helpful to everyone here. I hope you are feeling as best as you can right now. My heart goes out to you. Leslie

Leslie

Dear Friends, We are now nearly 3 months past Chance's death. We are healing but we still miss him very much. I think in some ways it is bothering Cassie the most, she seems to be an aimless soul around the house. We have received so many cards of sympathy that we are overwhelmed. The sympathy and support I have received from all of you has made a huge difference in how I have felt these last few months. Two folks from this forum have made donations to Meisha's Hope in remembrance of Chance and we are both honored to receive this gift. Thank you. I have been putting up a few of my favorite older photos and videos of Chance on my blog if you want to follow along. I get to it when I am able and will continue to put them up as time allows. The most recent addition is a cute video of when Cassie was very little and annoying Chance. You will see that he could have knocked her into the next county at any time, but he had complete restraint the whole time she was little. He was amazingly patient. http://www.cybergiants.com/PatricesBlog/ my best patrice

Patrice NYS

Dear Patrice, I just love your blog! Chance was a great boy in so many ways. Best wishes, Brigitte & the poodle boys

Brigitte BC Canada

Patrice, I haven't checked this forum for several months, and I'm very saddened by your loss of Chance. I see that he came from the same breeder as a friend's dog did many years ago (She and I had our dogs in training classes together, and I loved how her dog moved; it was so different from the more lumbering Newfoundland.). When Maddie was so ill three years ago you provided so much help and support. I really appreciate it, even today. Maddie will be 10 in September, and three years ago at this very time, I didn't know if she was going to live another day or not...she was diagnosed on June 6th.

Ruth Aptos

Dear Ruth, You cannot imagine how happy your note makes me. I may not have had much to do with Maddie getting better and still being alive to this day (!), (I think that was the work of you and your vet) but I am so honored that I was able to provide you with support that got you through the tough times. I had so little support when Chance was first ill and I still remember how lonely I felt, and frightened... Your note confirms for me that I should continue to visit with owners here and try to support them so they will never feel the same isolation I felt. I am tickled to hear that Maddie is still doing fine and is now 10! Tell me more about how she is, I would love to hear. my best patrice

Patrice NYS

Patrice, I think you have helped every single person who has been on this forum. Even though I lost Scruffy, I learnt so much from you I now understand why. Something no vet was ever able to explain to me. Without knowing this I would forever have wanted more answers. Thank you for your helpful advice to everyone who has needed it. Julie

julie australia

Dear Patrice, Thank you for sharing the pictures of Chance. He was magnificent! You were of immense help when Tootsie was so sick last year. Please continue to help those with IMHA and Evans Syndrome. Best wishes, Barb and Tootsie

Barb Ohio

Patrice, I absolutely concur with all the others that you have helped over the years. Cooper and I were lost in this disease and this forum of which you are a LARGE part got us through the horrible first 6 months. Your knowledge of these diseases and the ever present emotional support was VERY instrumental in making us understand what was happenning and giving us the strength to keeping moving forward. Cooper is now 3 1/2 years old, 16 months since the inception of IMHA, and has been completely drug free for the last 4 months. We continue to be eternally grateful, RON & COOPER

Ron Florida

Patrice, I remember in the beginning of our ordeal I dedicated a post to you. I was always so grateful when i got an answer from you to my questions. I remember joking with Johnny that we should entice you to move to Canada! Your help to everybody has been incredible. We can pay our vet with Visa, your advice has been priceless!!! I read all of your posts and try to keep learning. I am so glad you are back and I hope you and your family are healthy and happy. Best wishes, Brigitte & the poodle boys PS: Enzo's Lyme test came back negative, it seems to have been panosteitis. He is fine now... His titer showed antibodies to Distemper and Parvo!

Brigitte BC Canada

HEHEHE...Brigitte, I remember that! I figure she might have come to Nova Scotia but didn't want to hurt your feelings so just stayed where she was!!! :) I owe a LARGE part of my current knowledge to Patrice either directly or indirectly by reading past posts by her! I've read quite a bit in the archives and the most informative posts are usually 95% of the time Patrice's!!! Oh, and that's GREAT news for Enzo. good to hear he's feeling better. Johnny & Tessy

Johnny

This thread was discussed between 21/04/2010 and 13/06/2010

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