Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - One year ago today....

Macy was diagnosed with AIHA. It was the 2nd worst day of my life. I truly miss that girl. May those that are fighting this disease find strength as I remember how devastating the disease can be both physically (getting up every 2 hrs to let her out to pee or give meds) and, of course, mentally/emotionally. May those that have lost a friend to this terrible disease find peace. It is heartwrenching and can strike so quickly. Just know that if you care enough to find this forum then you are an awesome person and I am sure did all that you could. This New Year's will hopefully be much better. Here are a few quick resolutions: Spend as much time with my current dogs as I possibly can- even the healthy ones pass too quickly Continue to donate time/money to help fight this terrible disease Learn from the traumatic AIHA experience that life is precious and health is by far the most important thing in the world. Just wanted to spend a quick moment remembering my girl and letting you all know that I think you are incredible people. -Darren

Darren Long Beach

God bless you in the new year Darren.Thank you for sharing with us. Carrie & Summer

Carrie DFW

Darren, Well said. This board does have some pretty incredible people on it. Hats off to everyone that continues to educate, support and be that shoulder to lean on.

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

Dear Darren, Do I ever remember.... Macy fought so hard, but it was just not meant to be. I remember that you were hoping for your son to grow up with Macy. That dream did not come true, but her memory is still there. I hope your son has an other furry friend that he can dig his little fingers into. Macy was a special girl and will never be forgotten! Best wishes, Brigitte & the poodle boys

Brigitte BC Canada

Hi Darren! I always think of the story you told about being on the plane and hearing a song that reminded you of Macy!!! The same things happen to me quite frequently out of the blue. Perhaps it's Sadies way of staying with me...and Macy you! Everything you said above is just SOOOO true! Happy New Year Johnny & Tessy

Johnny

Dear Darren, Thank-you for caring enough to revisit this board and offer all of us who are fighting this disease with our pets, your support. My AIHA dog, Gracie is acting very strangely today and won't leave my side. She keeps looking longingly into my eyes. I wish I knew what she was trying to tell me. I think she knows I am sad and she wants to comfort me. Dogs are so amazing and they really are our spiritual guides in this life. I only know that I need to stay present with her and enjoy every moment I can with her. Even if she fights through this disease I know that eventually I will lose her companionship to something else in the future. What a sad thought. Your reminder came at a key time... A new Year. Happy New Year and many blessings to you, your dogs and to Macy. hugs, Gwen and Gracie

Gwen Rhinebeck

Darren I too remember Macy's courageous battle with this disease and how you did everything you could possible do for her. She is an angel in heaven watching over you and your family. I came across this poem the other day and I hope the words will bring you some comfort. Remembering With Fondness “When tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an angel came and called my name and petted me with her hand. She said my place was ready, in Heaven far above, and that I’d have to leave behind all those I dearly loved. I thought about our lives together, I know you must be sad. I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while, I’d wag my tail and kiss you, just so I could see you smile. So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart. For every time you think of me, I’m right there in your heart.” Cheryl & Ginger

Cheryl & Ginger Pinevile PA

Darren, Macy was a special dog. Both you and her fought so hard against this horrible disease. She will be waiting for you on the other side. God bless. Sue & Ren

Susie Delaware

Dear Darren, I too remember Macy's battle with this disease. She will live forever in your heart, and you have touched so many with your compassion and love for your girl. Your words are so true - health is by far the most important thing - without it, we have nothing. I will walk my dogs every day and set aside time every day to and be with my cats. Our lives are forever changed by this battle against IMHA/AIHA. Best wishes for a happy 2011, Sam & Millie.

Samantha Geelong

Darren - It was really nice to see you drop back in and offer your words of support. I remember Macy's battle well. You stand out as someone who really "gets it" and your love for Macy was and still is very, very clear. All the best to you and your family in the new year.

Bonnie Chicago

Thank you all for your kind words. Cheryl, thank you for the poem. It is touching. I don't come on here as much as I used to. It just is too hard for me. I do follow it though from time to time. I am glad to see you all fighting this disease. All familiar names....from all over the world-even Samantha from Australia. When Macy was first diagnosed, I felt so alone. She looked at me like I could walk on water and no matter how many others "cared" for her, the bond she and I had was like no other. I am sure you all have/had the same bonds with your pups. You all were so comforting and may those of you still fighting, please don't blame yourself....Do the best you can. Johnny...those moments are truly crazy. I mean, I was on a plane to Vegas for a bachelor party. Pretty much the opposite of meaningful life. Tears...but I think you are right. Her way of "staying in touch" at the oddest of moments. Your "candles" for Kahlu, Coco, and Macy was one of the nicest things that anyone has ever done for me. Thank you. Brigitte...I see you fighting this disease when I come on this board. I am sure Kahlu would be so proud. Keep up the great work. To all of you....my best in 2011 and thank you for allowing me to remember my girl with others.

Darren

Reading this brings tears to my eyes. Not that it is hard to cry these days as we try to fight this with Juliet. It brings me comfort when to know that "Heaven is the place where all the dogs you have loved come to greet you."

Pat Vermont USA

This thread was discussed between 29/12/2010 and 07/01/2011

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