I haven’t written much about cancer in this space because I didn’t think it was relevant, so as a result, I haven’t written much here at all since cancer has been my life for the past 10ish months. But now that I’m emerging from the worst of it (and only six weeks left!), I’m realizing what a critical role Emmett, Lucas, and Cooper played in all of it.
The first phase of my treatment involved a month of two-hour-a-day chemo drips that made me so sick, all I could do afterwards was crawl in bed and sleep until the next day. Every single day, when I returned home, Cooper stopped what he was doing and jumped in bed with me. He curled up on my feet, and there he stayed until someone came to fetch him for dinner and to go outside. After he ate, every single night, he came right back and curled up with me, where he stayed – unmoving – until the next morning.
My friends and family have done a lot for me this past year, but none of them could come close to matching that unwavering devotion, that loyalty.
Since John left to work in Louisiana, the boys have had very few walks. I’ve spent months being sick or, even on the good days, I just haven’t had the energy. Somehow, they understand. Historically, when they haven’t gotten enough exercise, their behavior reflected that. This year, though, they wait patiently for me. On the days we can walk, we walk. On the days we can’t, which is most days, they’re fine snuggling up with me on the couch or playing chase with their toys in the living room.
For years, they each had their own bed where they slept every night. As soon as John left, without me inviting them up, all three boys moved into bed with me. Maybe they are just taking advantage of that space opening up, but it’s reassuring and comforting to have them with me.
Lucas, never one for snuggles, started putting his head in my lap at night when I’m reading or watching TV.
Cooper, my high-energy two-year-old, spends every morning curled up on my lap while I check email, and he dozes on my legs every evening after dinner, reluctant to leave my side for even a minute.
This past year has been incredibly difficult. But through it all, they’ve demonstrated a loyalty and devotion that I can only hope to earn.
So when I was at a function recently talking to a couple whose daughter wanted her first dog, and they told me they couldn’t imagine their life with an animal, the only thing I could think to say was, “I can’t imagine my life without my animals!”
It is amazing how intuitive they are. I am glad they have been there to help you through.
That’s so sweet! What gentledogs! I let my human sleep in my bed too. I even let her under the covers with me. It’s a queen sized so it’s big enough if you like to cuddle. Ps Lucas is a looker! I like the strong yet gentle type. Best of luck to you.
Sassy
Dogs are the best medicine! Congratulations on being so close to the end of the road with your chemo! I think that deserves a WOOT! 🙂
You win the prize for the most touching post of the day. The only thing more beautiful than the boys’ loyalty is your appreciation and description of their tender loving care.
I hope the final six weeks of your treatment go quickly.
The most touching post I have read all day. So pleased that you are only 6 weeks away from the end! And the love of your dogs is wonderful!
I am so glad you had all three of them with you during this incredibly challenging part of your life. Animals provide what no other human could, constant unselfish companionship. All they want in return is to be with us. It’s an amazing thing and it’s wonderful it has helped get you through.
I hope the next six weeks move swiftly for all of you.
Your boys would do anything for you and Cooper is the greatest medicine ever! He’s such a great little man and so fiercely protective of you. Good job Boys, good job.
Life without animals is a scary concept for me. 6 more weeks is awesome – we hope they go quickly too.
Sam
This is a wonderful post, Maggie. It is obvious the love and devotion goes both ways between you and your dogs. It is so great that they have been there to help you through this difficult time. I am glad that the end of your chemo is near…I hope it goes quickly for you.
I’m so glad you have your dogs. And that you’re close to being done with this monster. (((HUGS)))
Amazing the power of the dogs, Maggie. Continued prayers and much hugs to you.
They’re amazing, perceptive beings and I’m glad your boys loved you through your low points. I can only imagine how hard it must have been for John to go down to Louisiana and I imagine knowing the dogs where there with you made it easier. So glad you’re nearing the end – six weeks will pass before you know it!
It is a special bond between animals and their owners. Something beyond reason and science. It is as important as any medicine. Much love and beat that monster.
Thanks for all the kind words, everyone! Reading your comments totally made my day. 🙂
Sending prayers and blessings your way. There is something so comforting when my dogs are snuggled next to me. So glad you have that with your babies
Agree. There is nothing like the bond between a dog and a person, anywhere in nature. I think about it every day: where did it come from? How do we deserve it?
On another subject, hang in there. Ten months is a long time when you’re going through it. Five years ago I was where you are — with some cells that had gone haywire. But here I am, on the other side, and really once you’re through and it’s in the rear-view mirror, you can get on with things: life, loving your pets, writing and reading and hiking….Thinking of you and your precious dogs.
What a moving post. Thank you for writing it and sharing your experience.
I’m sure this post has touched everyone who has read it, and the love you’ve received from your dog is beautiful. This is a prime example of why people shouldn’t go through life without dogs!
I wish you all the best and hope you make a quick recovery.
Rach
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