We are approaching the 1-year anniversary of when Mister first broke his back. AKA Christmas Day! And, what a day that was.
In a previous post, I detailed the dramatic series of events (go on, give it a read!). Between the snow, flights, bills, and exhaustion, it was nothing short of traumatizing. But, even so, it still all feels worth it.
As I sit here typing, Mister is cuddled up on a heated blanket after playing outside with his sister Polly (the poodle). Since the last update, Mister has lost weight, gained leg strength, and gotten that pep in his step back. He’s progressed so much! So much, in fact, he’s been jumping onto the couch! Which he is not supposed to do, but you have to appreciate the milestone. It’s quite impressive for a sausage dog!
Come to think of it, milestones are often all we have to look back on. The finer details fade away as the lessons, memories, and feelings rise to the surface. I remember last Christmas like it was yesterday. I felt sad, rushed, and confused. But, I also had a sense of calm and hope. I remember sitting on the plane with my head on the seat in front of me while a sea of thoughts crashed between my ears. I remember entering the veterinary hospital and seeing Mister’s stupid, doped-up face from fentanyl and muscle relaxers they gave him. I remember that god-awful, 8-inch scar on his back and all 11 staples. I remember it all.
I also remember him walking again for the first time and the look he gave me when he did (Mister’s First Step). And, I remember, just 10 minutes ago, when he ran in from the backyard and hopped over the doorstep like a trained athlete.
In the back of my mind, I know he could get hurt again, but I can’t let that stop him from being a dog. Freedom and movement have proven beneficial for his condition and I can tell he’s much happier than when he was boxed up in a pen.
So, for the sake of the holidays, let’s give a cheer for Mister! Who, despite it all, is still a spunky and sweet-loving pup…though, I’m deeply considering putting him in a straight jacket on the 25th just in case.
Merry Christmas,
Dylan
