Bone Cancer: Two Years Later

I’ll be honest, I never thought I’d be writing a two-year-update but it happened. August was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in August of 2016. Survival rates vary but most experts will tell you six months is really good, one year is extremely lucky, and beyond that, well, it’s a shot in the dark.

August is now two years and two months post-diagnosis. To say every day is a gift is now an understatement. We’ve gone on many adventures and made so many happy memories. She is my little miracle dog.

I opted for a course of treatment that included amputation of the affected leg followed by four rounds of chemotherapy. Amputation is really the only way to completely eliminate the initial pain of this disease and while it was a tough decision, I knew it was the only way to give August a fighting chance as well.

And boy has she fought! She doesn’t get around as easily on three legs as she used to, but I attribute that more to her aging body than the cancer. These days long walks mean she gets to enjoy the sights and sounds while lounging in her doggy stroller. To anyone who receives a diagnosis of bone cancer I hope August gives you just a little bit of hope. Don’t worry what the doctors say because the truth is there is all kinds of anecdotal evidence that says your pup could be with you for much longer than those scary survival rates.

For some excellent information, tips, and general support, check out the Bone Cancer Dogs Support Group on Facebook.