My Cleo has crossed the brigdge

Discussion in 'Lantus / Levemir / Biosimilars' started by Cleo & Jane (GA), Jul 15, 2015.

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  1. Cleo & Jane (GA)

    Cleo & Jane (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Apr 6, 2013
    Hi everyone - I have not posted in a long time. Many will not remember Cleo and I, but I know some will. We helped her cross on 7/1/15. She was close to 18 y/o. I have started writing this 3 other times, but could not finish.
    Cleo started a gradual decline about 4 months ago. First it was just that she started sleeping so heavy! Instead of being the first kitty waiting to go out on the catio when I got home from work, she wouldn't show up for 5 minutes or so. Then she began sleeping through her second dinner. I would have to go out and wake her from her hidey sleeping place behind the lounge chair. She would get tested, then head to her food and eat like a little piggy. It was like, "Nom,nom, I forgot how good food is!" I thought she was losing her hearing, but she heard me just find when she was awake. She began to get a blank look in her eyes at times, and she would walk back and forth from catio to around kitchen counters, like she was looking for something. Then, it would pass and she was normal. One day, after work, she went out on catio, laid down in the open, and didn't move. I picked her up, but she laid right down when I put her down. I called the E-Vet, my favorite vet was on, and told me to bring her in whenever I wanted. Called my daughter to come and see her, just in case. Cleo did not get up for her, either. But, about 30 minutes later, she got up, walked in, and jumped up to her food. She was normal again.
    We took her to the vet that week, a new vet I like very much. He did not make me feel like I was doing anything wrong with Cleo's diabetes. He looked at my SS, her old records and labs, and said, "Good job Mom." He felt I had that disease under good control. He did labs on her, looked at her teeth, (said although there was tarter, there was no redness and he didn't feel a dental was needed, especially at her age.) Her kidney levels were the same, her liver levels were still in normal range, but higher than last. All in all, a pretty good report. His office was much quieter, Cleo seemed to like the energy that was in there and how he touched her. Her heart murmur was still there, but Dr. Jones again said, Not bad for 17 years old.

    Cleo's appy began to decrease. First, I stopped the binder, and she did eat better. Always used the fortiflora. She began not liking FF, but wanted Sheba. We tried many different foods to keep her eating. Very gradually, she began not wanting to stay outside. She would go out as soon as she was done eating, but instead of staying out there (unless she wanted a snack), she would be at the door to come in 15 minutes. She would go into the hallway and lay down. Eventually she began going into the closet to sleep. She was not acting like she didn't feel well. She would still eat if I brought her out to her food. And she was getting anything she wanted. Even a few hard treats. I could always get her to eat raw chop meat and Max Cat Duck. Her last days, she even turned up her nose at them.
    It was almost like her body just got too tired to go on. We made the appointment for a Wednesday afternoon. Tuesday night, DH & I were sitting on our bed talking. Who came walking in, jumped up to the nightstand and onto bed, but Cleo. She did some purring and head butting, and then just laid down and chilled with us. Made me think she still had some time left. But, I think she was saying goodbye.

    I had planned on having a day filled with treats and snuggles with Cleo before our appt on Wed, but she would not eat at all. She just wanted to sleep in the closet. I kept bringing her out, brushing her (she still loved that), and she did drink a little bit of milk. She had not had that in years. But, then back to her closet.

    We did take her that afternoon. It was hard, but it was so peaceful. My baby did not suffer. Dr. Jones was the kindest, most compassionate vet I have ever had to deal with in this situation. Cleo liked him, and I know Leo (her "brother" that passed 2 years ago) was waiting for her. He was the only cat that Cleo liked. they were street cats together, before DD rescued them and brought them to FL.

    I still startle awake at times, thinking I slept through a testing time. I am still waking up at 5:15, even on weekends when I could sleep. I feel lonely - even with 2 other cats and 2 dogs, and a DH. She was such a big part of my day and night.

    I have some new Lantus pens that I would like to donate. It is so hot here in FL right now, not sure if I could ship them or not.

    Hugs and scritches to all our LL kitties ♥♥
     
  2. BJM

    BJM Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 6, 2010
    Requiem aeternum, Cleo.
    {{hugs}}
     
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  3. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    (((Jane)))

    So sorry to hear it was Cleo's time to leave you!! I remember you and know how great of a mama you were to her and I know she's sending you kisses for loving her enough to let her go when it was the right time.

    Fly free sweet Cleo! You have many friends at the bridge to keep you company until the one you love most comes to get you.cat_wings>o
    [​IMG]
     
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  4. Deanna & Billie

    Deanna & Billie Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2014
    I'm so sorry for your loss.
    Sending lots of vines and hugs to you.
    Fly free, sweet Cleo.
    :rb_icon:
     
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  5. Bron and Sheba (GA)

    Bron and Sheba (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 21, 2015
    I do not know you but know how hard it is to say goodbye to our beloved kitties. You gave her the greatest gift of all, even though it is a very hard thing to do. :bighug:
     
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  6. Wendy&Neko

    Wendy&Neko Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Feb 28, 2012
    ((((Jane)))) I am so sorry it was Cleo's time to go. :bighug::bighug: These sugar girls are so much a part of our heart. A piece of her will always be there with you.

    Fly free Cleo - send your momma a message that you made it to the Bridge.
     
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  7. Anne & Zener GA

    Anne & Zener GA Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 26, 2011
    (((Jane))) Thank you for sharing. I think she was saying goodbye and she was ready to go. She certainly had a wonderful life with you and your family. Lucky girl.
    Liz
     
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  8. Rachel & Chyna (GA)

    Rachel & Chyna (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 6, 2012
    (((Jane))) I'm so sorry you had to say goodbye to sweet Cleo. It sounds like you had some nice quiet time together to show your love to each other. I know Chyna and the other GA kitties from FDMB are there at the bridge to welcome her! Many hugs to you, I know how that paw shaped empty spot in the heart feels and I'm thinking of you :bighug::bighug:. Fly free and land softly, sweet Cleo :rb_icon:
     
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  9. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 9, 2012
    I remember too. I'm so sorry it was her time. She had a great life and the best care.
    Fly Free Cleo.[​IMG]
     
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  10. Josie & Ripley (GA)

    Josie & Ripley (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 10, 2012
    (((Jane))), I'm so sorry. You gave Cleo so much love, and I'm sure she knew it. Sending heart-healing vines your way.
    :rb_icon:
    Fly free, sweet Cleo, and land softly.
     
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  11. Marje and Gracie

    Marje and Gracie Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    May 30, 2010
    ((((Jane)))). We are so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful girl. I'm sure she would have stayed if had been possible. Sometimes their sweet little bodies give out. You were the best mama to her. I hope you will find peace In your heart knowing the love you gave her.

    Fly free, Sweet Cleo cat_wings>o

    [​IMG]
     
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  12. Anne & Zener GA

    Anne & Zener GA Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 26, 2011
    We remember you and Cleo so very well and also when Leo crossed the bridge. I still wake up sometimes and think I slept through a test, or forgot a shot and even still, think I get a glimpse of Zener swaggering down the hallway with his special CH walk. This does start to pass with time, but the sadness will still surprise you when you least expect it. Cleo had a wonderful life so full of love which she returned ten-fold. Sending you hugs as you mourn the crossing of your beloved Cleo. Job well done MamaBean, Cleo says so.

    rainbow-cats.jpg
    All of our beloved GA kitties greet Cleo as she softly lands.
     
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  13. suki & crystal (GA)

    suki & crystal (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 4, 2014
    Jane, I never knew Cleo but just wanted to send my deepest condolences on your loss. How lovely that she came to say goodbye. Fly free sweet Cleocat_wings>o
     
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  14. carfurby (GA)

    carfurby (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 19, 2012
    Jane,
    I'm so sorry. You were a great mamabean to Cleo. I know she knew it was her time and came to say good-bye. Sending prayers and hugs. :bighug::bighug::bighug:

    Fly free sweet Cleo.
     
  15. Dyana

    Dyana Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    I'm sorry for your loss ((((Jane)))).
    Cleo knows how much you loved her and is happily playing with her brother Leo at The Bridge.

    Fly Free Pretty Cleo.
    Send your mommy a message that you are okay and fine.:bighug:
     
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  16. knolet

    knolet Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 23, 2012
    Jane, I'm so sorry for your loss of Miss Cleo. Sending thoughts and prayers to you and your family, hugs
     
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  17. Georgia and Simon (GA)

    Georgia and Simon (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 20, 2010
    (((Jane))) I remember you and Cleo. I had a cat named Cleo and that is why I always liked checking on your Cleo on the boards. I am facing the same thing with my Simon that you faced with Cleo. Simon is acting much the same way. It is so hard when some days are good and some days are not -- you question everything. I am glad Cleo gave you a beautiful gift of a special goodbye to you and DH. You took such great care of her and your love for her will always be with you. So sorry for your loss.
     
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  18. Amy&TrixieCat

    Amy&TrixieCat Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 14, 2011
    I remember you and Cleo as well. I'm so sorry to hear it was her time. It's never easy, but she will always be in your heart and part of who you are. Our deepest sympathies and prayers to you....
     
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  19. Karen & Rudy

    Karen & Rudy Member

    Joined:
    Sep 26, 2014
    I'm so sorry for your loss. thank you for sharing those speical moments. I am still crying after reading them. I wish you peace and comfort. hugs
     
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  20. Melissa & Tarragon

    Melissa & Tarragon Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 17, 2011
    I remember you well. I am so very sorry Jane. Fly free sweet Cleo. ((((HUGS))))
     
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  21. Michelle and Mannie (GA)

    Michelle and Mannie (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    Jane, yes I so remember you, and Cleo. I am so sorry for your loss. It is never easy when our kitties age, when their bodies start to fail them. I am sorry that it was her time. Hugs to you. I hope the memories will be of comfort to you. She will always be with you, in your minds eye, and tucked away in that special corner of your heart. Fly free Cleo, land softly at the Bridge. My Mannie will be there to guide you. :rb_icon:
     
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  22. Tiger(GA) and Ruth

    Tiger(GA) and Ruth Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Apr 15, 2014
    (((Jane))))I am sorry for your loss, and I can sure relate to how difficult it is to write these posts, it hurts so bad.
    Fly free sweet Cleo and land softly.
    heartcandle.jpg
     
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  23. Jamye and Fred

    Jamye and Fred Member

    Joined:
    Feb 19, 2015
    So sorry ...cat_wings>o
     
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  24. Sienne and Gabby (GA)

    Sienne and Gabby (GA) Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    (((((Jane)))))
    Many of us remember you and Cleo. I'm saddened to hear of your loss. It sounded like Cleo knew her time to watch over you from the Bridge was approaching. I'm always amazed at how wise our kitties are.

    Fly free Cleo and I hope you have landed softly. There are many of our kitties to greet you at the Bridge and keep you safe until you are reunited with the one you love best.

     
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  25. Shiloh & Rhonda (GA)

    Shiloh & Rhonda (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 9, 2015
    Jane, I've been thinking about you since we talked the other day. I'm glad you were finally able to get it out. Many hugs your way! :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  26. MrZ

    MrZ Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 30, 2013
    Jane, I'm so saddened by this news. I remember you two well. You were so fortunate to have each other. My sincerest condolences.
    Fly high and land softly sweet Cleo. You will be forever loved and remembered by your devoted mama.
     
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  27. Melanie and Smokey

    Melanie and Smokey Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 24, 2010
    So sorry to hear of Cleo's passing. How fortunate to have great Drs around you during such a difficult time. What a lucky kitty to have such a great mama.
     
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  28. Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA)

    Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 11, 2010
    Dear ((((Jane and DH)))),
    We, too, remember your beautiful Cleo (and Leo, too) and send you our heartfelt sympathy on her passing. She had a wonderful life with you and she chose to spend one last night snuggling with her beans before saying farewell and beginning her new adventure. Fly free, sweet Cleo, on your beautiful new golden wings. cat_wings>o. Your brother Leo and all of our GAs are at the Bridge to welcome you. Continue to watch over your beans, and send them a sign from time to time. You are much loved.

    In deepest sympathy,
    Ella & Edward, Rusty, and Stu (GA)
     
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  29. pevsfreedom

    pevsfreedom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 16, 2015
    You did a unbelievable job of getting her OTJ and keeping her in check and healthy for so many happy and healthy years. Here's to you and Cleo!
     
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  30. Voula

    Voula Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 15, 2014
    My deepest condolences to you Jane on the loss of your beloved Cleo.
     
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  31. mariko

    mariko Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 10, 2011
    (((((Jane)))))
    Of course I remember you and Cleo.
    I am so sorry you had to say goodbye to her.
    What a peaceful beautiful tender goodbye, though.
    Sending love and light your way.
    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
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  32. Cleo & Jane (GA)

    Cleo & Jane (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Apr 6, 2013
    Thank you all so much for your kind words. This was truly the only place I knew could understand what I am feeling. I still look for her figure in between the slats of the lounge chair she liked to sleep behind. She could see out, yet she was hard to see! Perfect hidey/sleeping spot. The boys (Simon and Opie) seem to be afraid to stay out on catio. Cleo was the kitty in charge, even at her physical weakest, and I think they felt safer with her there. The dynamics of the house will be changing. Cleo had been having strange nadirs for the last two months, not her usual lantus curve. Her SS is not updated, but she did get insulin up to the end.
    Again, thank you all :bighug:
     
  33. julie & punkin (ga)

    julie & punkin (ga) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 17, 2011
    ((((Jane)))) You have my deepest condolences - I'm sorry it was Cleo's time to go. We love them so much and only wish they'd stay with us forever.

    Fly free little Cleo. You're loved and treasured!
    [​IMG]
     
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  34. Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey

    Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 18, 2011
    {{{Jane}}}

    Of course I remember you and Cleo. I am so sorry it was her time. You are a wonderful bean and I know she loved you as you loved her. Sending many hugs and prayers to you, your DH and Simon and Opie.

    How is your back?

    Fly free, sweet Cleo, and land softly. [​IMG]
     
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  35. AZJenks

    AZJenks Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 3, 2014
    Even after 18 years, it's never enough time. I'm so sorry that you lost your best friend, but so happy you were able to have such a long life together. You'll see each other again some day, but in the meantime, I hope all of those wonderful memories bring you peace.
     
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  36. Laura&Chichi (GA)

    Laura&Chichi (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 25, 2014
    Im so sorry for your loss..fly free Miss Cleo..cat_wings>o 18 years is such a blessing to have had her in your life, and you in hers too.
     
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  37. Cleo & Jane (GA)

    Cleo & Jane (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Apr 6, 2013

    My back was actually the reason that I stopped posting, Tricia. I was not able to sit or lie down for almost a month. No sleep, had to keep getting up to walk. The pain was mostly down my leg, vs the back. Finally was able to get an MRI approved, which showed a disc that had a large rupture on the left side. Pain pills did not help, but a medrol dose pack finally gave me some relief. Got in to see a neuro-surgeon on a Friday, and had surgery on Sunday, Mother's Day. My left foot had severe drop foot, and it was considered an emergency. Those 3 days in the hospital were the only times that DH gave Cleo her insulin, and he gave a reduced dose. He was so worried - lol. It has only been the past few months that I feel almost back to my old, pre surgery self. I feel blessed to be able to walk easier again. Thank you for asking~
     
  38. Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey

    Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 18, 2011
    I'm so glad you were able to get relief. I remember how debilitating severe back pain can be. I've often thought of you and wondered how you were doing. I hope today is a little bit better day. :bighug:
     
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