I logged on to TriPAWDS in July, it was right before we decided to go forward with the amputation on Sugar’s right leg, I hadn’t been that emotional about anything in my 41 years on earth. I rescued Sugar from the SPCA on the West Bank in New Orleans in Aug of 2007. I was single and felt the pull to rescue a dog, for the selfish purpose of being more lonely than I would admit to anybody. Sugar was given up by a family and was very depressed. She also had heart worms, and I was very gentle and made sure Sugar healed . Sugar healed and over time became a very confident dog. She and I have been inseparable and I had to fortune of bringing her to work with me until 7 months ago when a large wound on the top of her leg wouldn’t go away. Then one day, Dr. Baumer let me know his worst fears , that Sugar had bone cancer, but we had options because it had not spread. The amputation of the front right leg was a success and with a 20 inch incision, Sugar came home to heal. We decided to not do chemo to maximize her quality of life. I try not to second guess myself, but I can’t look back
The first few days were gut wrenching for me, but Sugar took it in stride. She face planted a few times while going to bathroom. She would get back up and over time her strength allowed her to move around and do what she pleased. It was a humbling experience to watch my girl keep her positive playful disposition. I have been blessed, but I made sure I was tuned in to make sure I noticed if cancer returned. She started having a dry hacking cough, and I decided to bring her to vet to get a X ray. My worst fears came true and cancer had metastasis to her Lungs. She didn’t have a clue and even with her cough hopped out of vet office and into my car. Dr. Baumer called me and asked me how I was doing, and I was seconds away from losing it. I thanked him for his kind words, and agreed we would have to likely say good bye to Sugar during the Holidays. I can’t tell you how hard this has been, I am happily married to Jessica and have 2 pugs Lucy and Ronnie Lu Lu. Sugar , Lucy and Ron Lu make a great pack. We will all rally around Sugar the next few days and enjoy her beautiful presence. To avoid her suffering any more , it’s time to say good bye.I will likely set up appointment for Sugar to end her journey and rest in peace. We will enjoy the next couple of days and be so thankful for a wonderful life together. I leave you with a poem I wrote that was a way for me to manage the grief. I hope my story helps someone else going through a similar loss. Dogs are Gods gift to man, and i can’t thank him enough for sending Sugar into my life.
Sugar so sweet , She never missed a beat
As she dug in deep, my heart was complete
Oh I know when she leaves me , things will be so bleak
Sugar my friend, Lord please don’t let it end
I beg you Sugar to stay, but I know it’s not the way
I cry for fear I will lose my way
Then one day it was the scariest day
I was told Sugar was in it , in such a unfair way
Cancer was here and wanted it’s way
Sugar said no way, as Dr. Renee chopped it away
Sugar knew her time was soon, but not today
she had some unfinished business
it may be months until Sugar is taken away
So Sugar said I will live life these last months
because I have to stay
Why won’t I give in and pass away
Because it’s okay to show you the way
The way to live, The way to Love
The way to heaven is only days away
So I say it’s okay to cry, cry away
But don’t you forget the team we created each day
Sugar don’t go
I have to leave you, but I will always be with you
Tell my buds Lucy and Ron Lu and don’t forget Millie
she was my boo boo
Lastly I say this , Jessica was the best , and made it like heaven
My Love to everyone as I have to leave , man it’s hard but it’s going to be okay
Love is what our life was together , like a Dove I fly away
Sugar is love and I may fly back some day
Sugar we love you and will hold you tight when it’s time
We won’t leave you in the Cold , We will hold you as you leave us
We love and thank you for everything my best friend
Richard L Edrington Jr.
