Celebrating Every Wag

A Year of Grace: My Dog’s Journey with Cancer

A year ago, my heart was shattered when I heard the words no pet parent ever wants to hear: “It’s cancer. It’s severe!” The diagnosis was grim. The vet told me that my sweet girl might only have a few months left. We went through the surgery, knowing it was serious and not without risks, but I wanted to give her every chance to keep living her life with dignity, love and joy. During the operation, the vet removed everything he could from her abdominal wall. Afterward, the vet gently told me that he would unfortunately not operate again, but that he would walk this path with me and support us until her final days.

Those early days after her surgery were terrifying. Every little change in her breathing, every restless night, every missed meal made me wonder: Is this it? Is the clock running out? I lived in fear of losing her too soon, but here we are - one whole year later.

She is still here, still fighting and still showing me what resilience truly looks like. It hasn’t been easy. She has her good days and her not-so-good days. There are times when her illness takes the light out of her eyes and other times when she surprises me with a burst of energy, tail wagging, reminding me of the playful soul she has always been. Each day with her has become a gift, one I don’t take for granted anymore.

This year has taught me so much. It’s shown me the meaning of unconditional love, the power of perseverance and the beauty of simply living in the moment. Dogs don’t worry about tomorrow the way we do - they just embrace today, whether it’s filled with sunshine and long walks or quiet cuddles on the couch.

To still have her by my side a year later is nothing short of a blessing. I know the time we have is precious and limited, but I also know that we’ve already been given more than I thought possible. Every wag, every cuddle and every sleepy sigh is a small miracle.

Sometimes, especially on the days when my own health makes everything feel heavier, I truly feel like she’s holding on for me just as much as I’m holding on for her. We’ve ended up carrying each other through the difficult days, finding strength in this quiet, shared fight.

My girl is a warrior - I am endlessly grateful for her courage, her companionship and her love. No matter what the future holds, this past year will always remind me of the strength that can be found in hope and the joy that comes from cherishing every moment we’re given.