St. Louis Proves Cathartic!

On Wednesday, June 20th, Mark, Tippy and I headed to St. Louis with the US Pain Foundation.  The Cares Alliance and Covidean provided a grant for us to come to speak with the Covidean employees.  They asked for us to share our "story".  Paul Gileno, President/Founder US Pain, Ellen, her husband Stu and Ellen's service dog, Maggie, Nicole Hemminway and her son and mother were all in attendance as well.  I have to say it was one of the best experiences of my entire life.  Isn't it funny that you find out the most about yourself when your not expecting it?!?  It's the first time since our children were born that Mark and I went away without them other than when we went for consultations at various medical centers through the years.  I think it was important for Mark to be there.  He hasn't traveled with me since my muscles and balance have worsened.  It's also the first time he has traveled with me with my service dog along.

I'll get to the cathartic part in a bit....actually, I really think that the entire trip was cathartic....it seemed there were revelations around every corner.  But, let me start with the traveling.  Once again, Tippy was AMAZING!!!!!  I thought that it might be tough in the airport since he likes to wait for direction, but I was so wrong!  The fact that he's constantly watching me made it seem almost seamless as any time we were turning or waiting, he was ready for the next step.  He was so calm, too, that once again my fear of flying was almost nonexistent.  He was wonderful along side my wheelchair as the attendant rolled me where we needed to go.  Trotting along he looked happy, rather pleased with himself.  I loved it!  

Now, the hotel was amazing.  It was the Marriott @ Union Station.  It was, as it sounds, once a train station!  In it's hey day, '30's and '40's,  several thousand people passed through the station daily. How cool is that?!?  The picture above shows Tippy sitting on an original station bench, and plaques commemorating the space on the original bricks.  The space has been turned into the hotel, and a mini mall where the trains once entered and exited.  The architecture is amazing with the original ceiling work in the Grand Hall/Lobby area.  It's really neat.  It has the original iron gates separating the hotel from the mall, and across from the lobby to get to the elevators for the hotel rooms.  The difference is you now use your "card" room key to get through.

I have already said that Tippy was "AMAZING", but you must remember that he is a dog, and he's just turned 21 months......  That being said, I'm sure you'll get a kick out of this little story.  Keep in mind that he did this on Thursday, just a couple of hours before we went to our speaking engagement in which I was including a demonstration by Tippy, showing behaviors and tasks service dogs are trained to do.  Okay, enough build up!  Ellen and I let Maggie and Tippy play in a grassy area just outside the fenced in pool area.  There was a type of "alleyway" that led from that area, and ran along the pool fence and one side of the hotel.  Tippy ran down there once, and came right back.  Ellen said that she thought the gate at the other end was locked.  Well, you know "Murphy's Law", "What can go wrong, will"?  The next time Tippy ran down there, he didn't come back right away.  Just as I was going to look down there a voice called out from the far end of the pool area....."Hey!", "Dog!", "Swimming!"  He was looking over the back of the pool area!  I "ran"(keep in mind...I can't run!) down the alley, and as I neared the end, I saw that the gate was open!!  OH, MY, GOD!!!  Tippy had gone through the open gate, and jumped into the Koi pond that surrounded the hotel on 2 sides!!!!  Definitely not a pool for swimming, ESPECIALLY A DOG!!!  I was mortified!  I called Tip, and he came right a way, but, when he started to climb out he looked at me, then looked back at the pond, and the pond won out!!!  I was aghast!  I called him again, this time "Level 1" recall, "Tippy, Come!"  Once again, he came right over only this time as he exited the pond he continued on.  He definitely knew he'd done something he shouldn't have.  He was drenched, he didn't shake, his ears were flat against his head, and his tale was tucked underneath.......he walked right past me and down the alleyway..... When he reached the grass, he shook himself off.  Thank, God, when a Lab gets wet then shakes, they're almost dry!  I used a towel from the pool area and buffed him, paying special attention to his chest and legs.  Then we headed to my room where I had him lay for a bit while I rested.  I then used the hair dryer to dry him most of the way before we left for Covidean. 

Now, we're coming to the "cathartic" experience.  I prepared my "presentation" starting with shortly before I became ill, and then followed with my pain "journey".  I decided to include a portion which I have not shared with many people.  It's part of my story, so it's about time I included it.  While Bethany has been aware since almost the time of the incident, Aaron and Emily had no clue.  I spoke to Em before I left for St. Louis, and we cried together.  I didn't have a chance to speak to Aaron before we left, but have since returning.  The incident I refer to took place on October 8th, 1996.  I attempted suicide.  I had spent the last four years suffering from and unknown progressive illness and had visited many doctors for second opinions.  In June of 1996, we were sent to The Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.  I had convinced myself that the answer would be found there.  Well, after a week of appointments and tests, they came up with a "working" diagnosis that pretty much just describes my issues; "Bi-lateral restrictive lung disease secondary to a proximal myopathy".  It just wasn't enough for me.  Still no suggestions on how to treat it, or a prognosis.  When we returned, I started seeing a different psychiatrist for several months.  One day, upon returning home, I just flipped!  There was no forethought, no plan in place, I just flipped!  I walked into the house ahead of my husband locking the front door behind me.  I then walked into my room, picked up a just filled prescription for 60 Xanax, walked into the bathroom locking that door behind me as well, and,........took the entire bottle of medication.....ALL of it!!  I flushed the empty container down the toilet and sat on the floor of the bathroom with my back against the door.....  I don't need to go into any more detail, suffice it to say that I thank God that I was unsuccessful because the best days of my life have been the ones since.....  That is what I included in my talk, though not in that much detail.  As I was reading and looking out at the audience, I began to sob.  Not full out crying, but sobbing just the same.  The instant I read that part, I actually felt a weight lifted off my shoulders.  It was the first time I had spoken of it outside my "shrinks'" office, and the first time I had cried............  You know how people say that if they can make a difference in one person's life it's worth it?  Well, I sent a "Thank You" to the individual who was responsible for our trip and presentation.  I mentioned that I hoped I hadn't left a negative spin on things.  She said absolutely not!  She actually thanked me because shortly after our visit she attended a "meeting" and found the strength to share something about her health that she'd never shared before.  I guess it really was worth it.............  I have more to say about the trip, but I've gone on so long, I think I'll just leave you with a thought...........you never know how strong you are until you take that leap of faith.......

Time To Say Hello, Thank You, and Good Bye......

I'm a bit late, but it's always okay to say "Thank You" to our Veterans, both past, present, and future.....  While Memorial day is indeed the time to enjoy family and friends, we do so with the knowledge that it's made possible by the bravery and sacrifices our Armed Services have made.  All in the name of "PEACE".  Our small town is actually part of a "tri-town" area; Essex(made up of Ivoryton, Centerbrook, and Essex), Deep River and Chester.  For this reason, we have our own elementary schools, but regional junior and senior highs.  The school bands, jr. and sr., rotate between the 3 towns for parades.  This year was our "off" year. Neither were in our town, however, the Essex Elementary School band did not march either.  Therefore, our Memorial Day Parade was tiny.  We are fortunate to have several Veterans who march yearly, but the days of the "long" parade seems to be gone.  There were definitely plenty of parade goers, just not many doers.  I hope next year proves me wrong, and the children of our town can experience the excitement and tears of a great parade....

The week before, I had an appointment with the neurologist I see for my migraines.  After a long discussion, he suggested that I try "Botox" injections.  I have too, many, too often, and too severe.  When I went to my appt., I had just gotten over a migraine that plagued me for over 4 1/2 weeks.  Lights and sounds got to be way too much!  Nothing I try as a prophylactic seems to work, and nothing has helped with the pain.  I DETEST needles, but my doctor assures me that they are the size of insulin needles, and therefore the pain shouldn't be an issue....I'm used to pain, I JUST HATE NEEDLES!!!!  My first "stab" at it is at the end of July...we'll see how it goes!

I've been feeling way more stressed lately, and am easily distracted.  It doesn't really happen often that my depression gets in the way of life.  Thanks to my shrink and the medication regimen I'm on I'm usually pretty even keeled.  I've had more of an issue with dizziness and balance and I think I just need to slow down....take a deep breath....and move forward, one ...step ...in...front ...of ...the...other...

With that said, this last week got extremely hectic.  I think I'm in the process of crashing, but it seems to be creeping up on me. 


On Wednesday, June 6th, my friend Cindy and I traveled to Trenton, New Jersey.  I was scheduled to address the New Jersey Assembly Committee on Health and Senior Services regarding their bill on Step Therapy.  Their bill has a two step protocol, as opposed to Connecticut's law which requires your insurance company to fill the prescription your doctor writes for a pain medication, with either the name brand, or generic equivalent.  The New Jersey bill allows the insurance company to request one attempt and failure before being required to fill the initial rx.  Paul Gileno, President/Founder of US Pain Foundation, met me there, along with a lobbyist from Pfizer before heading up to the hearing room.  There were 2 oopposed who spoke first, one of which was not only a terrible speaker, but was unprepared to give appropriate answers to questions asked.  That "boded" well for us, as we were, clear, articulate, and obviously prepared.  We knew our material, and I believe it was obvious that it was not just coming from our head, but from our heart as well.  Cindy thought we did well, and I felt much better following than I did going into it having not enjoyed the event in Edison.  In any case, Wendy, the Pfizer Lobbyist said that they'd love to have me back in the fall, when it will go before the Assembly and Senate.  God I love doing what I do!  Looking forward to more work!  The trip went well all around, and came at a perfect time as I was stressed beyond where I've been of late and just needed to "Get the hell out of Dodge!"


I returned Thursday night, from my all too brief respite, to a veterinarians appointment for our cat George on Friday morning.  It was supposed to be just a check up and Feline leukemia booster but we knew it would be more than that.  He had seemed to be dropping weight daily, and was eating very little.....even if we opened a can of tuna for him.  As it turned out, he had lost about 4 lbs of his 10.5 lbs, down to just 6.75#'s!  The veterinarian looked sad, and my daughter and I said that we had already discussed that this was more than likely the path we'd take today, and therefore we all felt it was time to give him the gift of PEACE.  We called my other daughter so she could be present, and allowed George to move on.  What I hadn't expected was Tippy's reaction.  I knew that he and George got along exceptionally well, and decided that I wanted him with me when we put George down.  Up until the tech took George to put a catheter in, Tippy was laying quietly by my side on the floor.  When the tech took him, Tippy immediately picked up his leash in his mouth and started pacing and turning in circles.  He would not let me take the leash, but continued to pace at a near frantic level until George was brought back in, wrapped in a blanket.  He had been given a mild sedative, in preparation for the final injection into the catheter.  Tippy reclaimed his spot next to my leg, and lay very quietly until the vet came in to give the med.  My daughter, Bethany, sat in the middle with Em and me flanking her.  As the vet began the injection, Tip picked up his chin and rested it on my knee and stayed there until the vet checked George with her stethoscope, and said, "He's gone"........  Tippy took his chin from my knee and rested it on his paws on the floor.....he remained quiet the rest of the day.......  He has since occasionally looked for George when we go out, since George followed us EVERYWHERE....down the road on walks, or just out to "potty".....and then he'd follow us in.  I guess we are ALL slowly accepting, and getting used to, the fact that George is no longer with us.  He had a wonderful life.  He lived 13 years as an outside cat, the only one left in the whole neighborhood due to all of the wildlife we have, especially the coyotes....of which there are many!  Even several months ago, he was still bringing us the insides of critters.  It was kind of creepy, because he would bring the skinned creature....minus the head and fur/feathers....sometimes the entrails were as large as a squirrels! 

This is a picture of George and Alli, January 16, 2011.  As you can see, George was an uncommonly GORGEOUS feline!  He will be missed more than words can convey......... 

Good Bye George.......

On Saturday night, We attended a benefit comedy show with Lisa Landry, for NEADS Client, Elaine Motta and Service Dog Rudy.  My friends daughter and I med Elaine following my graduation ceremony with Tippy.  We ate at the Applebees in Leominster, MA, and Elaine was there getting ready to move into NEADS for her 2 weeks of training with Rudy.  I feel so blessed and honored when I have the opportunity to meet clients when they are just beginning their NEADS journey.  I med Amy Reay while she was fundraising for her Service Dog.  And, when she was matched with Service Dog Delancy, I just happened to be up at NEADS one of the days while bringing a bread pudding.  To see the excitement and anticipation in the faces of the soon to be "partnered" is so heartwarming.  Knowing that they've become a part of the NEADS family is like welcoming a new member into my own family....It's great.  Below is a picture of the "CT Contingent", along with John Moon, NEADS,(with S.D. Rainbow), and Ellen Jones, NEADS, and a new friend, NEADS alum, Tanya and S.D. Bess!  HELLO

Last, but certainly not least, Tippy and I would like to thank you for your prayers of healing wishes for our good friend, Karin and her Service Dog, Lucky.  Karin has made a miraculous recovery and has been re-united with Lucky.  While she tires easily, Karin is doing much better and gets stronger with each new day.  We are all better for having Karin in our lives, and so with a much heartfelt Thank You, I say Good Night!

Karin and Lucky!!!

I Really Need To Slow Down......

Graduation Day!!!!  Em graduated from the University of Rhode Island on May 20th.  She received her BFA in Theatre with and Acting concentrate.  Anyone who knows her is probably not the least bit surprised by her choice of major.  The only thing I can ever remember her wanting "to be", is an actress.  She's not interested in tv or movies, just the theatre.  She's been singing since she was just 4 years old in the "Cherub Choir" at church, and stayed with it right through high school.  **Where she got her voice, I have no idea....most definitely NOT from me!!  Em's moving home for a bit to get a good routine going on repaying her student loans.  Unfortunately, we were not able to help, so she's got a lot.  She's hoping to head out by the first of the year, to an area near her friends and theatre opportunities.

On Tuesday, May 22, Tippy and I headed over....a 5 minute drive....to the Essex Yacht Club to speak to and profusely THANK the Essex Rotary for helping to make our partnership possible.  The Rotary very generously donated $8,500 of the $9,500**($9,500 is the clients' portion of the nearly $25,000 needed to raise the service dog from "puppyhood" through graduation.)  The above picture was taken by a member of the Rotary, Dick Levene, during an interview I had in preparation for my presentation.  I truly think it is by far my most favorite picture as it shows the love Tippy and I have for each other.  I really enjoyed speaking to the club.  I love being able to speak with people about my blessing of a Service Dog, and how it has changed my life.  Beyond that, the fact that these dogs are able to make such a positive change in the lives of so many with a myriad of disabilities is most definitely a miracle.  It's so very interesting to find so many well educated intelligent people who truly do not know the gist of the Americans With Disabilities Act.  Of course, most people are unaware of the specifics of the ADA unless they either are covered under it, or come in contact with those who are.  It always feels good to leave a group of people knowing that you have provided the service of imparting vital information that every American should be aware of.  I enjoy running through a bit of my daily practice sessions with Tippy.  I think the club enjoyed seeing where their donation went, and the value of that donation.  They don't often have the opportunity to see the "fruits of their labor".

Once again, it seems that I'm working backward chronologically.  I guess it's part of what Mark calls "Wendy Speak".  When people start following my train of thought, they're in trouble!

On Wednesday, the 16th, Tippy and I headed to Edison, New Jersey.  I was asked to speak to a group of intervention pain physicians regarding the practice of "Step Therapy".  I've mentioned this in earlier posts.  Simply put, it's the practice whereby insurance companies require you to try and fail at one or more prescription medications before they will approve the Rx that your doctor initially wrote.  Last year, US Pain helped to get the first bill of it's kind in the nation passed, and ultimately signed into law by Gov. Malloy in the state of Connecticut.  The trip to New Jersey taught me a valuable lesson......ALWAYS ASK FOR AN AGENDA WHEN ACCEPTING A SPEAKING ENGAGEMENT!!!!!  The initial invitation asked for the speaker to speak at the beginning of the meeting for 10 minutes.  We(my friend Cindy went with Tippy and me), arrived at the hotel in Edison at round 4pm, checked in, tweaked my "speech" a bit, changed, and realized we were running late.....of course!  We made it to the venue at exactly 6:30, rushed inside, found my contact, and readied for a speedy intro....WRONG!  I was told, "We've just started our social hour....."!!  Ei, yi, yi!!  During the "hour", I had occasion to mention, "So, I have 5-10 minutes?"  She told me, "Oh no, not even".  Okay, so totally throw out my 3 pages of notes.  Then, when 7:30 rolled around, my contact was 4th on the agenda, and I followed her.  To make matters worse, 2 of the previous members/physicians made reference to the same topics I was going to touch on.  I certainly was not about to repeat the importance of the bill to medical doctors.  I went the route of the importance of their support not only for the New Jersey bill, but for their patients who would benefit by it's passage.  I also explained the importance of the CT law.  That it pertains to pain meds only, a good place to start and get footing, and that in CT, when your doctor writes a prescription for a pain med, your insurance company is required to approve that med, or it's generic equivalent.  Also, it's important to keep the medical decisions with your own physician, the insurance companies should not, in essence, be "playing doctor".

Okay, give me a moment to step off my soap box!  

Before leaving New Jersey, we were able to stop in to see Eddie.  Eddie was in my class at NEADS when I was blessed with Alli.**(More on Alli to come)  Eddie was wounded in Afghanistan in 2003 when an IED went off when he was out of his "Hum-V"(sp?)  Eddie has probably made more of a difference in my life than most.  When we arrived at NEADS, Eddie had the room next to me, we shared a common wall.  During our first 3 nights at training Eddie had flashbacks, yelled and bumped the wall due to his PTSD.  However, once the dogs stayed with us beginning on the 4th night, I did not hear another sound during the night for the remaining week and a half.  And, this was before NEADS started their "Trauma Alert" program.  **(The teams in the new "TA" program learn to recognize the onset of a PTSD episode, and help each other through.....I don't want to say more as I am not familiar enough, and don't want to make a mistake.)  Eddie has gone through so much, and is a remarkable person.  In any case, I met with Eddie in NJ to talk with him about possibly becoming involved with the US Pain Foundation, and possibly speaking.  He has done wonderful work while involved with the Wounded Warrior Project. 

   

I just tried and failed at my 4th try to post.  I had 3 more substantial paragraphs below but lost them all.  I will now try to post just the above......fingers crossed......

PHEW!!!!!! TIPPY READ THE WHOLE EYE CHART!!!!!

I think this picture says it all!!  Dr. Federica Maggio, DVM, a Veterinary Ophthalmologist, administered the exam and was so happy to be able to give the good news!  She examined Alli last year and was so very compassionate that I never even considered going to another doctor.The entire Tufts VETS(Veterinary Emergency Treatment and Specialties) staff is so warm and caring.  The exam is so comprehensive....very similar to what a "human" ophthalmologist might do.  Perhaps even a bit more so!  Dr. Maggio truly loves these animals, I think she was just as happy to give the good news, as I was to receive it!  My friend Cindy was with me, as she was when we took Alli, and she was a great support.....EXCEPT.....I saw Dr. Maggio give a slight smile, and thought I heard her say, "That looks good" while giving the exam.  I looked over at Cindy and she had a very serious look on her face and her lip was quivering.  For a moment I thought that maybe I had heard the doctor wrong.  Nevertheless, the end result was great, and both Tippy and I are blessed to be able to be a team for years to come!  Dr. Maggio loved how happy we were, and of course Tippy had won everyone over, so she asked if she could take a couple pictures.  Of course I said yes.  She sent me the 3 pics, and I absolutely love this one.  Tippy and I do "hugs" often and I believe he knows that it's comforting to me......I wonder what emotion it stirs in him......

When we left Tufts in Walpole, MA, we headed over to NEADS to share the good news!  I had made a large bread pudding to celebrate the results of the test with the staff there.  I'm not sure what I would have called it had the news not been good.  Sherrie Forest and Kathy Foreman were there when we arrived and I reported immediately the positive outcome.  They both said that Tippy looks great.  I think so too, but it's always good to hear it from those who are "in the know" about such things.  I am very diligent when it comes to meals, treats, training and exercise with him so there really shouldn't be a problem.  Everyone also said that he looks bigger than when we left.  It's entirely possible since he is now 19 months though he should be nearly done growing.  His weight remains about the same, 82.2 lbs.  While we were at NEADS, we learned that there was one new puppy in the Early Learning Center(aka the "Puppy House").  Cindy and I wanted very much to visit, but Tippy isn't allowed.  Partly because the pups have not had all of their "shots" and could "catch" something from the older dogs, and partly for the reverse.......  Sherrie said that Tip could stay in John Moon's office since he was on vacation.  I put Tippy in a "Down/Stay", Sherrie put up the gate across the door, and I told Tippy to stay one more time.  I mentioned that I fully expected him to be in the same place when I returned, then we went up to see the puppy.  The Puppy House is at the top of the driveway, in a house next door.  We met radar, said hello to those who work and volunteer there, chatted a bit and returned to the main building about 20-25 minutes later.  Sherrie was standing near John's office speaking with Paula and for a moment I thought that Tippy had been moving around.  But, true to his nature, Tippy was in the exact same spot, with his head on his front paws looking at the door!  Sherrie said I could exercise Tippy up in the training room, as I was waiting to possibly speak with Brian concerning Tippy's timid response to playing with other dogs.  Brian had taken a puppy to it's prison destination, but when he returned he was in a bit of a hurry to leave and I didn't want to delay him.  I'm quite sure he didn't know, at the time, that I was there.  I left quietly before him and Cindy and I headed off for lunch.  Lunch was at a "99" restaurant, was quite good, and quite relaxing.  Tippy was awesome, as always!

On Wednesday Tippy, Cindy, and I are headed to New Jersey to speak to the New Jersey Society of Interventional Pain Physicians about "Step Therapy/Fail First" legislation and the importance of their support of their patients as we work toward eliminating the practice.  *(Sorry for the run-on sentence!)  I surprise myself in that I'm truly looking forward to doing this, and more of it.....Service Dogs have not only allowed me to regain some of my lost independence, I feel that they have afforded me a new avenue to follow in life, pretty cool, huh?  I am hoping to connect with Eddie, and his service dog, Houdini, while in New Jersey.  Eddie was in my NEADS class in November of 2009.  Paul suggested that I check with Eddie about possibly being involved with US Pain issues.  I'm so looking forward to seeing him again.  I think it's been since the Fall of 2010.....too long!

Finally.....Please send healing prayers to my good friend and fellow classmate, Karin(she received "Lucky" when I received Alli).  She is having serious medical complications and is in the ICU.  She has had to deal with so much and, while she is an extremely strong and courageous woman, she has had enough for the time being.....please hold her in your prayers........

Wendy and Tippy 

Tippy, Tippy, Prayers for Friends.....

Once again, Tippy was the "Cute Puppy" of the day on the NEADS site.  He must have been pretty new at NEADS since the picture is dated 12/10 and his birthday is early October, 2010.  I love these pictures!  That's the only part of receiving the dogs that I miss!  When you choose your pet as a puppy or kitten, whether from a shelter(as we always did) or a breeder, you have the thrill of seeing them as adorable babies.  I have the "puppy" album I received from Alli's inmate trainer and still love to look at it from time to time.  Now, I have these "Cute Puppy" pics of Tippy!  So far, there are just the two, but I cherish them nonetheless.  This one looks so like him even now.  His eye contact is amazing.  When he looks at you, it's like he's looking into you.  I know it's a bit corny, but it's like he's looking into your soul, and seems to always find comfort there as well as instilling the same.  

This past weekend we attended the Trans Siberian Orchestra performance of Beethoven at Mohegan Sun. Tippy has been wonderful at the URI Theatre performances, and has been downright amazing accompanying me to the CT, and RI capitols.  I wasn't sure, however, how he'd do at a concert performance.  He is always so calm, when not playing, that I wondered how he would react to the crowds, loud music, strobe lights, and rapid movement on the stage.  He, himself, performed exquisitely!  I used to love watching Alli as she watched the first half of any performance from under the seat in front before falling asleep for the 2nd half.  Tippy somehow managed to sleep through the first half, wake shortly looking for a reward, then fell fast asleep for the remainder of the show.  He was also game when we got Ben and Jerry's afterward, savoring the banana I purchased for him, and happily walked with us to order a small pizza to go before heading back to our room.  My friend and I chuckled as Tip went back and forth from my bed to hers with his toy waiting to see who would opt for the chance to play.  He loved the carrot slices he received while practicing high 5, catch me low(low 5), prayers, time for bed, etc.  Tippy never seemed to take notice of the late, or early, hour until I settled down and out he went...down for the count!

On Saturday....I guess I'm working backward....Tippy and I went with my good friend Debbie and her granddaughter Olivia to Bishop's Orchard for the Donkey and Mule Festival.  I think Tippy found it all quite curious.  We started with a small pen with a few llamas.  A larger enclosure had both llamas and a few goats.  I'm not sure who was more interested, Tippy as he studied these beasts behind the wire fence, or the "beasts"....llamas and goats....who approached the fence looking at Tippy as though he was an alien!  In fact, to them I guess he was an alien.  It was so obvious that he interested them.  Their stare caught him as he neared the fence, and they moved closer, cautiously sizing him up.  We watched the donkeys as their riders made their way through an obstacle course....soooooo much more slowly than with a horse.  Tippy really wasn't interested, and when Debbie and Liv returned from the "Moon Bounce",(Olivia calls them "Boom Bounces"!) he was only too happy to retreat to other areas.  Unfortunately for him, the next area was no better.  We went on a tractor ride through the orchard.  With each bump and creak, Tippy looked like he wanted to shout, "Stop the ride, I want to get off"!!!!  

Thursday is a big day for Tippy, and I guess for me.  He has an appointment at Tufts VETS(Veterinary Emergency Treatment and Specialties) for his free Service Dog eye exam.  His appointment is with Dr. Federica Maggio, DVM.  She is a Veterinary Ophthalmologist.  I took Alli to see her last May and received the news of her impending blindness.  These exams are so vitally important.  Sight should never be underestimated.  Without this appointment, we would have continued to believe that Al's difficulties were related to behavior issues and would not have realized it was her sight for probably some time.  Animal have an amazing ability to adapt well to a lost sense.  Dr. Maggio told us that if Alli was a pet, and not a service dog who was constantly out and away from home, it's possible that we would not have known until she was completely blind.  Whether a service animal or not, an annual eye exam is so important for the animal's health.

Next Wednesday we are heading to New Jersey to speak to the "New Jersey Society of Interventional Pain Physicians.  I was asked by Paul 2 weeks ago if I would travel to New Jersey to speak to a group about "Step Therapy"/Fail First legislation.  "Step Therapy" is the practice of insurance companies to require a patient to first fail at one or more alternative medications before filling the initial prescription the doctor wrote.  Having addressed the issue in CT,(where we were successful), MA, and RI, I am more than interested in continuing the "push".  After finding out last week that the group was a physician's organization I immediately felt intimidated.  While my first instinct was to decline, I told Paul that I was still willing and interested to go.  He was glad and said that they, "are people like us and need to get involved to help patients".  The bottom line is that I believe very strongly in this legislation and feel that I can convey that belief and it's importance through the facts and how they relate to all individuals.  I am now looking forward to the event and consider it as more experience in an area that I am finding purposeful and thrilling.  You don't always get a second chance at a direction for your life....and one that has the ability to promote positive change for others.


Finally, I ask for your prayers for several friends of mine.  Karin, who graduated with Alli and me with her Service Dog Lucky, has had a recurrence of a past cancer.  After receiving radiation treatment it was shown that it had no effect and would need to undergo surgery to remove any growths they were able to.  Please send your healing prayers her way for her May 15th surgery.  She says that Lucky has been her strength, her rock.  Let's hope that they can remain partners for years to come.

Lastly to the family of my good friend Cindy.  On April 30th, she lost her husband of more than 40 years to cancer.  Bob was a strong role model for his wife, son, and grandchildren.  He was always ready, willing and able to help with the needs of the church accomplishing a great deal on both Outreach and House and Grounds committees.  Bob's infectious, positive attitude and personality will surely be greatly missed.  While the Marshalls have a great yellow Lab, Hunter, Bob loved seeing Alli and she was able to visit him in the hospital last year....which put a smile on his face.  Tippy had the great opportunity to visit with him at their home several times and I know it brought him great pleasure to watch Hunter get "hyped" while "toying" with him!  Bob had always wanted a party before his death to say "Thank You", and "Goodbye" to his friends and family but was not up to it this past year.  Instead, the family is having a picnic for all to share their stories and memories of Bob now that he's passed.  "CHEERS to you Bob!"  Your prayers will do so much in the healing process for Bob's family.

Thank You  

 
 

TIP

I'm adding the usual picture, this time a video, below because I have to apologize for all the , "Are you ready?", and "Good Boy!" comments first.  Tippy loves to play, loves the soccer ball, loves the tennis ball, but is so laid back that he likes a lot of encouragement.  He likes to know that he's doing a good job, that he's not doing anything wrong.  He takes his job very seriously, and his play just as much so.  This is also one of the last times that I stood up while playing with him....my hand was already broken....I decided soon after not to take any more chances!  Tippy normally plays harder and the balls, whether soccer or tennis, go farther when I'm not trying to brace with the crutch, kick or throw the ball, and hold the camera, all at the same time!  I guess that explains the broken hand...!  **(Oh, and ignore the "awesome" lawn and landscape, enough said)

Tomorrow we meet with a woman from the Essex Rotary.  They donated quite a bit to go toward Tippy.  She wants to get together so she can meet me and Tippy and learn a bit about "Service Dogs" and all they can do.  She'll also have a gentleman from the club to take some pictures.  The Rotary would like this done so they can submit it to the local papers and TV stations to see if anyone wants to "pick it up" for a story.  This publicity is a small price to pay for what the Rotary has done with their donation.  I have to remember to wash Tippy's "equipment" tonight so he'll look great for the pictures.  Who am I kidding?  He always looks great.  I know I said it with Alli, but it's like having my children young again.  I feel so proud when people take notice about the great job Tippy does and how handsome he is.  They especially take note about his shiny coat......salmon oil.  I know some people use fish oil and/or those fish oil gel tabs, and they seem to work great, too.  But, I used salmon oil for Alli before I knew that and loved the effect.  I get it at the pet store.  Labs are known for having dry skin, the reason I started the oil with Alli, and using the salmon oil seems to take care of any dry skin along with providing a gorgeous coat.  The other day someone made the comment that his coat was so shiny in the sun it had the look of a deep blue, like a seal.

I think I need to stop for today.  Tippy started out on the bed with me, with his chin resting on the edge of my laptop.  He then moved so that his whole head was on the keyboard and just his eyes were looking at me.  I tried scratching his belly with my foot as I often do while typing but apparently that doesn't cut it today because he's jumped off and is sitting by my bedside with his chin on my leg.....again with the puppy dog eyes looking up at me....  He definitely wins this time....I gladly cry "Uncle"!!!!

"PHEW.......!!"

Well, I started this post the day before Easter after our visit with the Easter Bunny. This picture shows the "ever curious, always problem solver", Tippy, looking for the Bunny's eggs. Once again, as with Santa on the Christmas train, the "character" phoned in his duty. Whatever happened to all the "Edmund Gwenns"(The 1947 version of "Miracle on 34th Street"/black&white.....it can't be beat!) Santas and Bunnies were always so animated! Now many of them sit and just bide their time! If I hadn't seen his lackluster performance with the children before Tip's turn, I would have thought he was just afraid of dogs.....or flat out doesn't like them. But the children would sit next to him, he didn't move or tip his head or even wave, the picture was taken and the children would be led away by their adoring parents. And, what makes it even worse, the least expensive package of pics was $22. What happened to being able to buy just the one 5x7 for $10? There wasn't even an option for a single. Enough ranting.

I got as far as uploading this picture (taken with my own camera!) and had to stop due to the pain in my hand. I broke it playing with Tippy on the day following my last post. I have to explain at the start that it wasn't his fault. When your trainer tells you to sit when playing with your dog because your balance is so bad.......SIT!!!!! This was the second time I've fallen while we exercised/played, and hopefully the last! This time, when I went to the dog park I decided to capitalize on the early spring and take Tippy down to the swimming area. At this point, no people swim, and there's no one to make sure the dogs don't use it. Because Tippy hasn't been with me for very long, I had his flat collar attached to a 50' lead. 20/20 hindsight is a B*%#H! Instead of just letting the lead lie along the sand, I had the brilliant idea to hold the end. I just didn't want to take a chance on him running, and the highway is just up a big hill from the beach. I went to throw the ball, began to lose my balance, and ended up throwing it too far. Tippy naturally went after it and I realized immediately that I needed to let go of the lead. Wouldn't you know, the lead "handle" got caught up on my thumb and my fate was sealed. As I was already off balance, down I went! The weird thing is that I fell onto my right side yet it's my left hand that's broken. It happened so fast, I guess I could have put my left hand back to brace for the fall or it just got caught under me....either way, I don't know. Later that night I vomited, then most of the next day as well. I guess I might have hit my head and got a mild concussion.....that explains why I had sand in my hair and I guess the left hand as well. When I fell, I tried to get up but couldn't. I called "Tippy, Tippy", but he had gotten the ball and was doing what we call the "Rabbit Run" around and around me with wild eyes....he was definitely "in the moment". I then decided to use the "Level II Recall", and said, in a very authoritative voice...."TIPPY, COME!!!" He turned on a dime and came right over to me, sat, scooched a bit closer and put his chin on my shoulder! I started to cry! I don't know if it was from the pain, or the fact that he remembered something I had been teaching him and used it at an appropriate time. I taught him to HUG!!!!! He stayed there until I said, "I love you.....good boy"! Then he stood in front of me and braced himself while I leaned on him to get up. It took awhile, and he didn't budge the whole time....GOD, I LOVE MY BOY!!!!!! The "kicker" is that one of the reasons I took Tippy to the beach was to celebrate his "half birthday"! He turned 18 mos on the 4th. My son's birthday is in January, so when he was young we celebrated his "1/2 birthday" in July. No cake or party, just a trip to the book store for his choice of a couple books.

The following Monday, the 9th, we went up to Middletown to see the new office for US Pain Foundation and meet with Paul (Gileno, President, Founder). I'm very excited to put in a day or two each week, when able, to work on issues, support groups, research. It really made this whole thing I've been working on seem so real. It's always been real, but I now realize that what I say does matter, and I have the ability to reach out to others and help them to see how they can help themselves. In essence, I've not only found my "voice" but am learning how I can use it to be a positive influence for those with chronic pain and illness. I'm also getting used to learning about the issues that effect our health care system, and testifying to help improve the lives of so many. NEVER would I have guessed that I would be doing this, let alone enjoying it. In June, US Pain has received a grant to bring the INvisible Project to St. Louis, MO, and Paul has asked me and fellow advocate and INvisible Project subject....and friend Ellen Smith to accompany him and speak before the group attending. Mark, and Ellen's husband Stu will of course make the trip with us as we are not able to make the trip w/out their assistance. Of course.....Tippy and Ellen's service dog Maggie will also be with us.

I know this is long, but it's been 2 weeks and I promised myself that I would post at least once a week. I've got a couple more topics to cover.....please bear with me......? On the 11th, (Ellen's birthday!) I actually got some wonderful news. Currently, my immune system is holding it's own!!! I actually don't need the IVIG at this point in time. My immunologist said that perhaps the new doctors I'm seeing in September, Neuro-Immunologists, may see the benefit of the IV, but at this point I will not receive it. The same IVIG that I was receiving is often used for persons with MS and other neuromuscular disorders. Not having it for the last year could explain why my balance and muscle strength have declined more than in previous years. Along with this topic is the interview I did with NBC 30, in Connecticut, pertaining to the bill which I gave testimony for that would restrict the out-of-pocket expense for Specialty Tiers. At the time I gave testimony and was interviewed I had not had my blood work, and was still fighting for my IVIG. I will continue to push forward for others who desperately need there Specialty Tier meds and cannot afford the increasing co-pays. The bill was "killed", so the interview was tabled. I'm not sure why, but the station decided to run the story this past Monday as part of their "Troubleshooters" segment. I had contacted my "media" person Jen, about the change in my status. We hashed it out a bit and decided that my immune system is a small part of my disorder and that since I was on it and remained infection free for the duration, I would still opt to have it if available and a physician agreed. Also, she felt that since it's possible that I reaped the benefits with regards to my neuromuscular disorder the story was still valid. Neither one of us was notified that the story was running, but everything is good!

Last, but not least, is the spaghetti dinner Tippy and I attended on the13th....a Friday no less! It was a bit ironic that Tip was there as it was a benefit dinner for an area cat shelter, Catales. We were told there might be cats there, but they would be in crates. I didn't see any cats, but the big black dog slept through pretty much the whole thing!

I have decided that Tippy is "Wise Beyond His Year(s)" and wanted to leave you with a picture of what I am blessed to see each and every day......

Peace,
Wendy www.neads.org