Dear Friends,
Mr. Boots drank a little water this morning but he is very weak. He stumbles and falls when he walks. I let him out of the bathroom every few hours to get some exercise, and he is weaker each time. Also he has massive diarrhea from the Ensure which Dan said would happen.
I'm thinking that it doesn't make sense to prolong this until Wednesday when we get the lab report. He is still fighting for life
but he is slowly losing the battle. He may not make it until Wednesday.
I have to play a concert at one, but I will take him back to Dan after that if it is ok with everyone. Dan has volunteer fire
training this morning.
Phyllis
Somehow this earlier note didn't come through:
Dan feels it needs to be two ounces 4 times a day. Except for Kathy my friends don't tend to be cat people. One has already said I am crazy to put myself through this and I should put him down now. I told her a whole group of people are involved - not just me. I couldn't put him down not knowing for sure. I need that answer first.
+
What is there to say other than God be with Mr Boots and Phyllis and Dan.
Early afternoon
There are a lot of TCP people out there with blurry computer screens and tears on their faces. Yet everyone supports Phyllis in whatever decisions she and Dr Dan will make on Mr Boots' behalf.
Just a sampling:
Lee wrote right after PD posted: May God hold you all, Mr Boots, Dr Dan, and you as you walk this uncertain path. You are with him and only you really can know. We are just on the periphery, watching.
Prayers are certainly with you and MB. I trust God will let you know if it's time to let MB go to the bridge. I'm with you whatever course this all takes. Phyllis, we love you for all you have done and are doing. We weep with you. It is time and we all do understand. Mr. Boots is ready to go to Wylie who awaits him. I'm crying my eyes out but know this is right. You gave him happiness for his last days and thank you ever so much for all you have done.
PJ water flowing down face
And Debbie writes: Phyllis, I know that both God and Wylie are with you as you make decisions for Mr. Boots. You know
we all on TCP want what is best for Mr. Boots, and if it is a trip to the bridge, then may he go peacefully, and may you realize the love surrounding you as you help him.
Dennis says: Whatever happens, he is worth every hour expended on him and every dollar as well. We would do it all over again in a heartbeat. And I know you will do whatever you can even if the worst is true. God's blessing on you and Mr. Boots.
Kim writes: It does sound like Mr. Boots is on the edge of the bridge. I remember well how Sarit got to that point.
I too trust you to do what is right. I am appreciative of all the love and attention you've given him. I know its heartbreaking to see him at this point. My prayers and love are with you as you make decisions and love him.
Caroline and the gingerbread cats try to support Phyllis:
We all love you for the special care and affection you have and are showing, and I think I speak for everyone in saying that whatever decisions you make WILL be the right ones for Mr. Boots. Everything you have done so far is wonderful and right. Painful as it may be, if it is time for Mr. Boots to cross the bridge, Wylie will be waiting there for him.
Remember that you have nothing but our love, prayers and admiration. Pet him for all of us, and take care of yourself as well.
Peter adds: Purrayers arise for you and Mr. Boots, as well as Dan. It really sounds like Mr. Boots is suffering, and as Lee said, you are the only ones who are there to make the judgment about likelihood of recovery.
Even if the lab tests indicate something that can be fixed, will Mr. Boots be able to withstand the required treatment by that time? If not, then ending his suffering seems a humane course.
Please know that we are with you as you make the difficult decisions.
And Lois says: You are — we are not, except in spirit. (Damn, it's hard to type while weeping!). You know, my dear, just how much Mr. Boots is suffering. You — with the consultation that I know you'll make with Dr. Dan — need to make the decision. WE SUPPORT YOU no matter what and when!
You have fulfilled the purpose for which we all prayed and you and Nancy and Betty — to let Mr. Boots know that he has continued to be loved just as he was when Wylie was loving him and able to care for him.
And you have fulfilled this purpose in spades! Well done, good and faithful servant!
Poor Mr. Boots. Sounds like he'll soon be reunited with Wylie at the bridge and they can cross the bridge together.
+
If you weren't in tears when you started reading this note, surely by now you are. At least this poster is.
Feb 10, 2007
Feb 9, 2007
Lots of conversation about Mr B
The TCP crowd has written a lot about Mr Boots and thanks to Pam, we have the round-up of the notes that were sent today. There are lots of prayers and thoughts winging toward Mr Boots and Phyllis, and we hope they can feel them.
From Dennis: Whatever happens, he is worth every hour expended on him and every dollar as well. We would do it all over again in a heartbeat. And I know you will do whatever you can even if the worst is true. God's blessing on you and Mr. Boots. There was a chorus of Amens to that sentiment.
From Betty: Phyllis, I'm so sad to read your news. And I'm mad that cancer is involved. I hate that word and what it does to living beings. I keep thinking about Wylie and how devastating this would have been for her. I'm so glad you are willing to care for Mr. Boots at this time. I wish I lived closer to help. Mr. Boots has come to mean so much to all of us. I agree with others that it's worth the cost both monetary and emotionally. Heartfelt prayers for both of you.
From Val: Let's keep hoping. He wasn't having trouble with his mouth before the glass episode, so that still could be it. Thank you for all you are doing. I wish I could be there also. Avatar agreed that so long as there is hope, let's not give up until Mr. Boots does.
From Lois: Oh, Phyllis! I'm praying very hard that Dan is wrong ... Tabitha had a tumor in her mouth, too, and I finally had to give up and help her to the bridge. You may remember that. But I could force feed her without a tube, until the end when I gave up because it bothered her so! I also hate to think of keeping him caged for his last days ... oh shit I hate this! Please know that all our prayers are with you and Mr. Boots!!! Lois also hopes that Mr. Boots can be let out of his cage after a day or two.
From Caroline: I'm concerned for you, Phyllis, and I think we all are for several reasons. I know you are deeply attached to Mr. Boots and love him as you do the other 3 cats. What makes this even harder for you is that you are doing this for the sake of Wylie whose memory we all cherish and because we are all attached to Mr. Boots and are invested in his welfare. He has become everybody's cat on TCP. I'm worried that if something happens soon to Mr. Boots or if you feel that he needs to cross the bridge, that you will feel that you have let Wylie and all of us down, and that is simply not the case! We all love you for the special care and affection you have and are showing, and I think I speak for everyone in saying that whatever decisions you make WILL be the right ones for Mr. Boots. Everything you have done so far is wonderful and right. Painful as it may be, if it is time for Mr. Boots to cross the bridge, Wylie will be waiting there for him. Remember that you have nothing but our love, prayers and admiration. Pet him for all of us, and take care of yourself as well. Caroline and the gingerbread cats
From Barb: What she said. Any decision you make will be the right one. I'm backing you 100 percent of the way. Let us all know if you need more money.
Mr. Boots Update (Early Friday Morning)
I have spent much of the night holding him. He seems relaxed in my arms. When I got home from rehearsal he had managed to remove the outer layer of tape that protects the feeding tube. It was just dangling. Apparently it is crimped below where I can see it because I couldn't get anything down the tube. So I was unable to feed him. I sense a change in him. This last go around may have been just too much for him.
Caroline: Mr. Boots certainly knows that he is well loved!
Mr. Boots Update (Late Friday morning)
I just got back from visiting Dan. He got the line straightened out and retaped. He was amazed that Mr. Boots had been able to remove it. The only thing we could figure is that he is wiping his mouth with paw frequently and he may have somehow caught a paw in the tape. He again cut his claws and used a different kind of tape.
Meanwhile MB made his usual room to room inspection of the house and stood over his water bowl for a considerable amount of time before he settled in for his morning nap. I have him in my bathroom rather than the cage while I try to get a few things done. Also I have another rehearsal at 10:30. If he lets loose with diarrhea, I'll just have to clean it up. It's a small bathroom, but he has more room than the cage and it seems to be the warmest room in the house. His mouth is still oozing also, but that is pretty easy to clean up.
Since I am going on approximately 0 sleep this will probably be another less than stellar rehearsal. I must have dozed at some point while I was holding him, but that is not good sleep. Gotta run. Phyllis
From Debbie: Phyllis, my screen is blurry when I think of what you and MB are going through. I know how hard it is to have a sick cat, but when I think of the love and compassion MB is getting now instead of hit and miss feedings in a lonely house, I am grateful you have done this for us on TCP.
From Lois: I have the feeling that Mr. Boots will know when it's his time, and none of us begrudge him any of the efforts on his behalf!
Our concern is for you, too, Phyllis. Take care of yourself!
From Val: I think that whatever has been done for Mr. Boots so far has been the right thing, and we have all been a part of it in one way or another. It will soon be apparent whether Mr. Boots will pull through or go to be with Wylie. Either way, we have given what we can, and you, Phyllis, are giving your all for the poor little guy. Please try to get help where you need it, and don't wear yourself out!
Lee's sister commented that 'even if spending their last moments in the ICU or confined these cats know their people are doing their best for them. Ajax Sr. spent his final week in the ICU (kidney failure) and when I would visit he would put his arms around my neck and lick my turtleneck 'til the end.'
Phyllis found those words comforting: Thanks Lee. I needed that!! I am having a very hard time holding back my tears today. I feel like I am totally out of control. Mr. Boots purred when I zoom groomed him today - his very soft purr that says " oh, thank you, that feels so good".
There were many expressions of love and support for Phyllis and Mr. Boots. They both continue to be in our prayers.
From Dennis: Whatever happens, he is worth every hour expended on him and every dollar as well. We would do it all over again in a heartbeat. And I know you will do whatever you can even if the worst is true. God's blessing on you and Mr. Boots. There was a chorus of Amens to that sentiment.
From Betty: Phyllis, I'm so sad to read your news. And I'm mad that cancer is involved. I hate that word and what it does to living beings. I keep thinking about Wylie and how devastating this would have been for her. I'm so glad you are willing to care for Mr. Boots at this time. I wish I lived closer to help. Mr. Boots has come to mean so much to all of us. I agree with others that it's worth the cost both monetary and emotionally. Heartfelt prayers for both of you.
From Val: Let's keep hoping. He wasn't having trouble with his mouth before the glass episode, so that still could be it. Thank you for all you are doing. I wish I could be there also. Avatar agreed that so long as there is hope, let's not give up until Mr. Boots does.
From Lois: Oh, Phyllis! I'm praying very hard that Dan is wrong ... Tabitha had a tumor in her mouth, too, and I finally had to give up and help her to the bridge. You may remember that. But I could force feed her without a tube, until the end when I gave up because it bothered her so! I also hate to think of keeping him caged for his last days ... oh shit I hate this! Please know that all our prayers are with you and Mr. Boots!!! Lois also hopes that Mr. Boots can be let out of his cage after a day or two.
From Caroline: I'm concerned for you, Phyllis, and I think we all are for several reasons. I know you are deeply attached to Mr. Boots and love him as you do the other 3 cats. What makes this even harder for you is that you are doing this for the sake of Wylie whose memory we all cherish and because we are all attached to Mr. Boots and are invested in his welfare. He has become everybody's cat on TCP. I'm worried that if something happens soon to Mr. Boots or if you feel that he needs to cross the bridge, that you will feel that you have let Wylie and all of us down, and that is simply not the case! We all love you for the special care and affection you have and are showing, and I think I speak for everyone in saying that whatever decisions you make WILL be the right ones for Mr. Boots. Everything you have done so far is wonderful and right. Painful as it may be, if it is time for Mr. Boots to cross the bridge, Wylie will be waiting there for him. Remember that you have nothing but our love, prayers and admiration. Pet him for all of us, and take care of yourself as well. Caroline and the gingerbread cats
From Barb: What she said. Any decision you make will be the right one. I'm backing you 100 percent of the way. Let us all know if you need more money.
Mr. Boots Update (Early Friday Morning)
I have spent much of the night holding him. He seems relaxed in my arms. When I got home from rehearsal he had managed to remove the outer layer of tape that protects the feeding tube. It was just dangling. Apparently it is crimped below where I can see it because I couldn't get anything down the tube. So I was unable to feed him. I sense a change in him. This last go around may have been just too much for him.
Caroline: Mr. Boots certainly knows that he is well loved!
Mr. Boots Update (Late Friday morning)
I just got back from visiting Dan. He got the line straightened out and retaped. He was amazed that Mr. Boots had been able to remove it. The only thing we could figure is that he is wiping his mouth with paw frequently and he may have somehow caught a paw in the tape. He again cut his claws and used a different kind of tape.
Meanwhile MB made his usual room to room inspection of the house and stood over his water bowl for a considerable amount of time before he settled in for his morning nap. I have him in my bathroom rather than the cage while I try to get a few things done. Also I have another rehearsal at 10:30. If he lets loose with diarrhea, I'll just have to clean it up. It's a small bathroom, but he has more room than the cage and it seems to be the warmest room in the house. His mouth is still oozing also, but that is pretty easy to clean up.
Since I am going on approximately 0 sleep this will probably be another less than stellar rehearsal. I must have dozed at some point while I was holding him, but that is not good sleep. Gotta run. Phyllis
From Debbie: Phyllis, my screen is blurry when I think of what you and MB are going through. I know how hard it is to have a sick cat, but when I think of the love and compassion MB is getting now instead of hit and miss feedings in a lonely house, I am grateful you have done this for us on TCP.
From Lois: I have the feeling that Mr. Boots will know when it's his time, and none of us begrudge him any of the efforts on his behalf!
Our concern is for you, too, Phyllis. Take care of yourself!
From Val: I think that whatever has been done for Mr. Boots so far has been the right thing, and we have all been a part of it in one way or another. It will soon be apparent whether Mr. Boots will pull through or go to be with Wylie. Either way, we have given what we can, and you, Phyllis, are giving your all for the poor little guy. Please try to get help where you need it, and don't wear yourself out!
Lee's sister commented that 'even if spending their last moments in the ICU or confined these cats know their people are doing their best for them. Ajax Sr. spent his final week in the ICU (kidney failure) and when I would visit he would put his arms around my neck and lick my turtleneck 'til the end.'
Phyllis found those words comforting: Thanks Lee. I needed that!! I am having a very hard time holding back my tears today. I feel like I am totally out of control. Mr. Boots purred when I zoom groomed him today - his very soft purr that says " oh, thank you, that feels so good".
There were many expressions of love and support for Phyllis and Mr. Boots. They both continue to be in our prayers.
Feb 8, 2007
Sad news about Mr Boots
Phyllis wrote in this evening with this difficult news to absorb:
Dan thinks the problem with MB is a very aggressive form of cancer of
the mouth. We will not know for sure until lab results . He doesn't
want to put him down until he knows the answer. He called the lab to
see if he could get results expedited. They told him it will be
Tuesday at the earliest and more likely Wednesday since they have a
tremendous backlog.
So I will feed him through the tube until we know. He also
recommended keeping him caged because he will have diarrhea
from feeding and he will continue the drooling from his
mouth. Right now that is bloody because of taking the sample. I
guess I won't get to sleep with him again.
I hate the thought of him spending his final days caged. I hate all
of this!!!!! He is such a special cat. I am just sick about it
all. I knew he didn't have much life left, but I never imagined it
would be like this.
+
Words really aren't sufficient at this moment but we rally around Phyllis, who is at the center of this storm, and pray that she knows she is doing the best she can for a kitty who is loved by many people.
If there were a way to hug Phyllis and Mr Boots and lay hands on them, we would all do it. For now, we do it virtually (+).
Words really aren't sufficient at this moment but we rally around Phyllis, who is at the center of this storm, and pray that she knows she is doing the best she can for a kitty who is loved by many people.
If there were a way to hug Phyllis and Mr Boots and lay hands on them, we would all do it. For now, we do it virtually (+).
Prayers for Mr Boots
Phyllis wanted to know what we all thought about her taking Mr B to Dr Dan, and having Dr Dan explore what is going on.
The TCP crowd (plus Jan) is unanimous in telling her to go for it.
Some of the notes that have come in are so eloquent and express well what we humans and cats are thinking, such as this one from Pele:
The TCP crowd (plus Jan) is unanimous in telling her to go for it.
Some of the notes that have come in are so eloquent and express well what we humans and cats are thinking, such as this one from Pele:
Mr. Boots,
Hang in there, fella. Me an' Tiki an' Maui have put our little paws together in prayer to the Creator One on your behalf.
It's no fun when you can't eat. I been there. Mom worried and worried and I couldn't tell her what was wrong. I think if anybody can help you, it will be your OFV. So don't be afraid to go to him. And then when you come home, you just plant yourself in Auntie Phyllis' lap and purr and purr. It will make both you and her feel better.
Love,
Pele
Feb 7, 2007
The news isn’t good. This came from Phyllis today.
Later this evening…
Dear friends,
I am very worried about Mr. Boots. He ate
some tuna yesterday morning for Dan, but he hasn't eaten anything since he got home. He has drunk just a little water. The swelling in his tongue is down but he is holding it to side for some reason. Dan force fed him a little while ago. If he doesn't start eating, I have a real problem on my hands here.
This morning I set him up with three dishes - one with tuna, one with yogurt, and one with canned XD which he was eating well before all this happened. He moved the tuna around a bit in the bowl but I doubt if he actually swallowed anything. He didn't touch either of the
other bowls. He acts like he is thirsty but just sits in front of the bowl. He acts like he is hungry but just sits in front of the bowl.
This is very upsetting.
Later this evening…
Dan called a few minutes ago to see how Mr. Boots is doing. I told him that I still see a will to live. When it was supper time at our house where all the kitties get a dollop of canned food, he was right there with the other three wanting his bowl. Problem is that he couldn'tHang in there, Mr. Boots.
eat it. He wants to eat and he wants to drink. Something is stopping him.
So tomorrow Dan is going to tranquilize him and check as far down as he can to see if he can find any other thing that is causing this. Then he is going to insert a stomach tube so he can be fed regularly and get nutrition until this mystery unravels itself. He is wondering if the trauma of stuff coming crashing down may have caused a slight stroke which made him bite his tongue. We may never know for sure, but we aren't giving up yet. He wants to eat
and drink. He just can't for some reason. If Mr. Boots still is fighting, then my feeling is that we need to also.
Feb 6, 2007
We love you, Dr. Dan
Dr. Dan, you are the best. TCP heard from Phyllis with the latest report.
Just got off the phone with Dan. Mr. Boots is recovering but not recovered yet. He would send him home if I insist but would rather keep him another night so I said OK. If he were to come home I would need to confine him again which would agitate everyone. Then I asked what the charge will be for all this TLC. He said $10 a night
plus the medications and fluids. I nearly dropped the phone!Dr. Dan is being flooded with thank you cards and emails
Feb 4, 2007
Sunday update on Mr Boots
Phyllis informs the TCP crowd and Mr Boots fans out in cyberspace:
Just got off the phone with Dan. Mr. Boots ate a little tuna and tried drinking water. That is still tricky but at least he tried. He wants to keep him overnight again so he can keep the iv going and give him more antibiotics which he is doing by injection in order to get faster reaction. Hopefully he will be coming home tomorrow. Oh yes, he has him on a heating pad. Heating pad and tuna! He won't want to come home!!!!!!
I haven't a clue what this will cost. What I do know is that he is getting best of care and he is responding! This sweet boy sure has a lot of friends!
+
He's a survivor and fighter, indeed. The TCP gang is going to deluge the kind doctor who is tending to Mr Boots with fan mail and thanks.
Further update on Sunday evening from Phyllis:
Just got off the phone with Dan. Mr. Boots ate a little tuna and tried drinking water. That is still tricky but at least he tried. He wants to keep him overnight again so he can keep the iv going and give him more antibiotics which he is doing by injection in order to get faster reaction. Hopefully he will be coming home tomorrow. Oh yes, he has him on a heating pad. Heating pad and tuna! He won't want to come home!!!!!!
Just got off the phone with Dan. Mr. Boots ate a little tuna and tried drinking water. That is still tricky but at least he tried. He wants to keep him overnight again so he can keep the iv going and give him more antibiotics which he is doing by injection in order to get faster reaction. Hopefully he will be coming home tomorrow. Oh yes, he has him on a heating pad. Heating pad and tuna! He won't want to come home!!!!!!
I haven't a clue what this will cost. What I do know is that he is getting best of care and he is responding! This sweet boy sure has a lot of friends!
+
He's a survivor and fighter, indeed. The TCP gang is going to deluge the kind doctor who is tending to Mr Boots with fan mail and thanks.
Further update on Sunday evening from Phyllis:
Just got off the phone with Dan. Mr. Boots ate a little tuna and tried drinking water. That is still tricky but at least he tried. He wants to keep him overnight again so he can keep the iv going and give him more antibiotics which he is doing by injection in order to get faster reaction. Hopefully he will be coming home tomorrow. Oh yes, he has him on a heating pad. Heating pad and tuna! He won't want to come home!!!!!!
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