Needless to say, things have been a little hectic around here for the past several weeks. In early December, we found out that Maggie had melanoma and would be needing surgery to remove the tumor and the nearby lymph nodes. We got through that and the surgeon got clean margins but found that two of the five lymph nodes that were removed tested positive for cancer cells. While not the best possible outcome, it wasn’t the worst one either. So, she had another surgery last week to go back in and remove the rest of the lymph nodes from the region. It was much more invasive than the first surgery, she’s in a lot more pain, and the recovery period is going to be a bit longer.
Throughout all of this, Emmett, Lucas, and even Cooper have been great. They’ve been careful around Maggie, curling up around her in bed keeping her company, and doing their very best to cheer her up. The support we’ve gotten from friends and family has been amazing as well. Maggie has gotten cards, cookies, flowers, and tons of good wishes. Friends and family have dropped off food, come by to cook for us, and have come in to help take care of Maggie while I deal everything else. Melanoma or not, work still needs to get done, bills still need to be paid, and the house needs to be cleaned.
We’re incredibly grateful for everything that everyone has done and said over the past few weeks. Things should slowly get better over the next few weeks or so, and I’ll do my best to keep everyone updated if Maggie can’t get some posts up (though she’s going to try – she really misses writing about dogs and keeping up with all of you). While Maggie is recovering, I’m going to continue to dote on her continuously and do everything I can for her, although there is seriously no way I can compete with this:
And who would really want to?
Mr. John, you did a super good job updating us on Miss Maggie. Me and my mom were JUST thinking about her this morning and hoping everything was going okay. She sure is Most Special.
And also…a very good job doting on her by you AND the Three Amigos. I’m sure all the love surrounding her is gonna make her feel very much better real, real soon.
Wiggles & Wags & Brindle Kisses,
Mayzie
Thanks for the update John. With you and the boys taking care of her, Maggie is in great hands — you’re a pretty amazing guy!
Call me if you guys need anything. I’ve been stocking up on vegetarian recipes to make for you guys, just waiting for the signal flare!
Thanks for the update, John. I’m glad to know you and Maggie are doing alright. It sounds like you’re taking good care of her. Hugs to you both.
Although I don’t know you or Maggie, I have always appreciated all of her blogs about dogs. She has brought a lot of much needed attention to suffering animals and has managed to get support for many in need when it didn’t seem possible. Now is time for her to feel that same amount of support for herself. Wishing a speedy and full recovery from me and all my four legged kiddos. I know from working in health care it helps a great deal to know you have support even from strangers, but those four legged angels cuddled with her are miraculous for healing. Thanks for the update and tell her we can’t wait to hear from her. 🙂
Thanks to everyone for the kind words. This has been a tough few weeks, and it will only get tougher, but out of everything that’s been going on, we’ve been constantly reminded of how lucky we are to have such great friends, even those we’ve never met. Thank you, everyone, for all of the comments, messages, flowers, cookies, grilled cheeses, and the encouraging words. No matter how sick she feels, or how awful things are going, Maggie is still able to be Maggie (which basically means she keeps reminding me to clean something!) And thankfully, Lucas can keep her feet warm, Emmett will make sure she eats everything, and Cooper…well, he’ll go to doggy daycare so she can sleep…
Maggie, I’m so sorry to hear about this! I’m glad you have John and the dogs there to help you with your recuperation. Good luck recovering, and soon, I hope to hear that you’ve kicked cancer’s butt!
Great job guest posting, John. And glad to know the pups are such good helpers.
I hope your feeling up to posting again soon, Maggie.
Is it time for jokes yet, Maggie? John says you’re pretty funny all by yourself on pain meds. 🙂
I’m so sorry you needed more surgery but I’m relieved that the doctors were so thorough. And I couldn’t be more grateful that you are receiving so much support from your wonderful husband, the napping dogs, family and friends. Ride that wave all the way to recovery and I’m pulling so hard for you from the other side.
John, I’ve seen my own husband struggle with my recent situation, wanting to be strong, yet feeling helpless at times. Please remember to take care of you too. I imagine it frustrates Maggie to not be able to do so in return, and you need your strength too. Making space in that pile of dogs to recharge your own batteries is so important for you both.
I love you guys.
Thanks for the update John – and thanks to you and the dogs for taking such good care of Maggie. Hope she is feeling better soon!
Please tell Maggie I’m sending her get well wishes, and keeping your whole family in prayer during this time. John, you sound just like my husband, taking good care of your lovely wife and tending to the things you need to, plus the things you know are important to her, like her blog. I know she must love that quality. Wonderful picture of the dogs, there is no better way to heal. Take care.
Peggy and kelly
Maggie sure is in good hands – and paws! John, you’re amazing, and the best husband and friend Maggie could hope for. With all you have to tend to, please be sure to keep yourself on the list. Maggie, sending positive thoughts and wishes your way, and hopes for a speedy recovery so you can fully get back to doing what you love most! Emmett, Lucas and Cooper – you guys take good care of Mom, but remember to leave a few inches on the bed for her, too 🙂 Lots of hugs, Kim and CindyLu xx
Not only are you an excellent caregiver, but you even take the time to do a guest post? You ARE amazing!!! Thanks for keeping us posted – wishing Maggie a speedy recovery!!