Hershey will be leaving us tomorrow. My. heart. is. breaking!!

Discussion in 'Lantus / Levemir / Biosimilars' started by Doug N Libby, Dec 5, 2018.

  1. Doug N Libby

    Doug N Libby Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 2, 2012
    (I apologize, in advance, for the length and possible rambling...)

    I've been procrastinating about posting because I'm a fountain even typing. We've been around a while, posting much less since the forum changed and since we were kind of doing our own thing, tweaking it for our boy. Most of the people we started with are gone and I still miss them terribly. I miss the chatting and sharing our lives even more than the dosing information. I KNOW that it was no happy accident that led me to FDMB and the people who gave me almost 7 extra years with my boy. THANK YOU just doesn't BEGIN to cover it.

    Maybe a month ago, Hershey started slowing down. He couldn't always jump onto the couch successfully bringing his back legs with him. I got him a stool and he finally started using it. The day before Thanksgiving (11/21) he started showing real weakness in his back legs and not being able to stand for long, as well as walking funny. That Friday, we took him to our son's vet because ours was closed (and we were displeased with our last visit there). This vet was GREAT; I wish we'd found him sooner. He was encouraging and supportive and so impressed that we'd been home testing/giving insulin for almost 7 years and how educated we were about FD and our kitty. They gave him fluids and a Cerenia shot. I told him I had a friend who offered to instruct me, but I just didn't think I could give fluids at home. He said, "You've been giving insulin shots for 7 years?? You've got this!" He lost an 18-year old cat to kidney disease and offered insight from that perspective, as well. He started Hershey on phosphorus binders, Mirtazapine, and ordered potassium.

    We went back the following week for fluids and initial supplies to start fluids at home three times a week. Doug managed to get one dose of potassium in him (which he choked on). Then started all of those second guessing moments like when he was first diagnosed...What if...I'd taken him in sooner? Done this or that differently?? He did so well with the first two doses of fluids that I really had hope for a few months, but it seems that was not to be.

    He started refusing all Wellness. Switched him to Whole Earth Farms Chicken. (PSA: Petco is going to stop selling Whole Earth Farms!) Then refused that. Just Sheba beef. Then, refused that. They, WEF Duck. That lasted almost a whole day. Yesterday, he refused food and water. Last night, my son went to PetSmart to pick up new foods to try in a last ditch effort to rally the troops. This morning, my husband got a bite or so of Arctic Char & Spinach in him. So, he lingers....

    This is Hershey's second day refusing food or water. He acts like he wants them, especially the water. He even made his way to water bowl (which is painful to watch him staggering around), but then didn't seem to know how to get the water. I tried holding the bowl at different heights, even wetting my finger and putting it to his mouth, but his tongue doesn't come out. I tried him on the Arctic Char & Spinach. He smelled it, but no tongue or open mouth. I offered a shrimp treat. He sniffed it and moved his face on it like he wanted it, but didn't know exactly what to do with it.

    Last night, he started doing this thing with his mouth, too. He'd open it, but it'd be like he was holding his breath and releasing it with a *puff* noise. He also started acting like he was going to choke or be sick. During these spells, he'd jump to his feet and jump off the chair with great urgency like he needed to go take care of something. I wondered if his noises were the kitty equivalent of the noises my Daddy used to make that were from acid, so Doug tried him on Pepcid this morning, which he said was an ordeal!

    For some time he enjoyed those pretty blues with a fair number of greens sprinkled in there on .25u to zero line. (Which amazed the vet!) Then, he started his days 200+ and dropped into upper 20's low 30's. This is the second day his numbers have stayed in the 500's like his body has given completely up and he's either stressed or in pain and is just done. Doug is making the call for us to take him in tomorrow morning. I'm praying he goes peacefully in his sleep tonight.

    My son and DIL came this morning to say their goodbyes. My son hugged me extra long and hard before leaving. Sometimes he's SO sweet.

    I keep thinking of just one more thing to try, but I know I'm being selfish.

    Let me just brag on my sweet boy for a minute. He has only wet in his carrier twice in the 16-1/2 years we've had him. He'd rather burst than go outside of his LB. Once, our car broke down on the way home from the vet so we hung out at my parents' while they fixed it. Took Hershey out on the grass and he gave me a look like, 'You've GOT to be kidding me!' and held it until we got home. Last night, as he'd have a spell, he'd jump up in urgency and jump off the chair, if I didn't stop him. Once, he tried all routes, but I caught him, laid him back on the towel and...HE PEED! He gave me this look like, 'Just LOOK what YOU made me do!' This morning, Doug said he was almost distended because his bladder was so full. Said he took him to the LB, but no luck. When I got up, I took him and you could tell it was awkward for him with me supporting his weight (since he can no longer stand for more than a couple of seconds) but he went! Even nigh unto death, he doesn't want to go outside of the LB!

    16 years 9 months and 5 days (tomorrow). It's never long enough. Thank y'all for your thoughts, prayers, and kind words over the years. It's amazing how close you can feel with people you've never seen and wouldn't recognize them if you fell over them at Costco! HUGS to you all!

    Love,

    Doug and Libby (and Hershey, too!)

    12/05:
    AMPS (517) +12.5 - Had planned to shoot a little early, trying to give him some relief, but goodbyes had me distracted.

    12/04:
    +3 (HI)
    PMPS (544) +14.5 - I have no idea what happened to my mind! Shot time was at a time it's never been at and maybe that's what threw me? I just don't
    +10.5 (332)
    +3 (276)
    AMPS (432) .3 (+13.25 - slept through alarm)

    12/03:
    +8.75 (55)
    +7.75 (38) - karo + food
    +5 (60) ate almost whole meal
    PMPS (440/480) .4
    +7.5 (198)
    AMPS (194) fat zero
    +6.25 (37) karo - food
    +5.35 (31) karo - food

    12/02:
    PMPS (223) .25
    +8.25 (148)
    AMPS (244) .25
    +5.75 (37) karo - food
    +5 (29) karo - food

    12/01:
    PMPS (252) .25
    +7.67 (183)
    AMPS (256) .25
    +6.67 (52)
    +5.67 (37) karo - food
    +4 (30) karo - food

    11/30:
    PMPS (230) .25
    +11 (163)
    +5.5 (35) karo - food
    +5 (30) karo - food
    +3 (28) karo - food
    AMPS (53) fat zero (Couldn't skip & shoot before church Sun)
     
    Last edited: Dec 5, 2018
  2. Squeaky and KT (GA)

    Squeaky and KT (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 19, 2011
    I'm SO sorry it's Hershey's time to cross - HUGS and hugs and hugs and more.....prayers for comfort for all of you left here....

    And more hugs Libby and Doug...
     
  3. Doug N Libby

    Doug N Libby Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 2, 2012
    Thank you, Lyresa, for the years of encouragement, comfort and help! :bighug:
     
  4. Chris & China (GA)

    Chris & China (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2013
    So sorry to hear it's Hershey's time to take his last big adventure. :bighug::bighug::bighug:

    It sure does look and sound like something has just stopped working right.

    There's no bigger gift we have to give them than to release them from a body that's failing them and take their pain away and put it on ourselves.

    Fly free sweet Hershey and land softly. There are lots of old friends at the bridge to welcome you, show you the best fields to chase butterflies and the sunshiniest places to nap. Send your beans a sign when you get there that you're happy, healthy and waiting for the day when you'll all be together again ...forever cat_wings>o
     
    Sue and Luci likes this.
  5. Kris & Teasel

    Kris & Teasel Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Aug 17, 2016
    I'm so sorry it's time to let your kitty go. :(:bighug::rb_icon:cat_wings>o
     
  6. Pamela & Amethyst

    Pamela & Amethyst Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 11, 2016
  7. Mandy & Rex (GA)

    Mandy & Rex (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Mar 22, 2017
    I'm sorry. But thank you for sharing some sweet stories about your Hershey. :bighug:
     
  8. Judy and Boomer

    Judy and Boomer Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 23, 2014
    I'm so sorry it's Hersey's time. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  9. Shoeskitty-GA

    Shoeskitty-GA Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 18, 2016
    I am so so sorry that it's Hershey's time to leave you and DH. Hugs for all of you and prayers for strength and comfort.:bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  10. Tracey&Jones (GA)

    Tracey&Jones (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 12, 2016
    :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug: Peace and love for you and your family.
     
  11. ohbell

    ohbell Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Apr 21, 2011
    Hugs to Hersheys purr-ents! Sharing sad tears for you both. Fly free little Hershey!
     
  12. Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey

    Tricia Cinco(GA) & Harvey Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 18, 2011
    {{{Doug}}} and {{{Libby}}}

    Even though we haven't seen you around the Board much (I've been away a lot, too), I remember Hershey from our early days here. You are some of the best, most loving beans I've seen, and my heart is breaking for you and your family. :bighug::bighug::bighug:

    Thank you for sharing your little tribute to Hershey. He is definitely a determined cat who knows what he wants. Now I think he wants to rest, and you are giving him the greatest gift of all, even though I know it's the hardest thing you've ever done. As he crosses the Bridge, remember that he'll never be far away, for he'll always reside deep in your hearts.

    Fly free, sweet Hershey, and land softly.:rb_icon:
     
  13. Mandarin'sMom

    Mandarin'sMom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 17, 2014
    I am so sorry that it is Hershey's time to get his wings. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  14. Jill & Alex (GA)

    Jill & Alex (GA) Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    ((((( Libby, Doug, family, & Hershey )))
    Tears are forming little droplets on my keyboard...
    Hershey, you will be missed more than you know.

    cat_wings>o
     
    Krystina & Nelli likes this.
  15. Sherry & Zoe (GA)

    Sherry & Zoe (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 29, 2009
    (((Libby and Doug))) my heart is breaking for you. Much love and peace to you all. cat_wings>o
     
  16. rhiannon and shadow (GA)

    rhiannon and shadow (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 9, 2012
    ((((Libby and Doug)))))
    I'm sorry. This is the hardest part of loving our Furever family. Hugs for you tomorrow as you set Hershey free.
     
    Krystina & Nelli likes this.
  17. Sue and Luci

    Sue and Luci Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 3, 2017
    So very sorry to hear it's Hershey's time to go. Praise to you for being strong and knowing that it's THAT time. I know from personal experience how hard that is. Your heart will heal in time - but there will always be a place there for your beloved Hershey. Forming that scar will ache - try to fill that painful place with the love you have for him. Sending prayers, vines and hugs to your and your family during this difficult time.:bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  18. Sienne and Gabby (GA)

    Sienne and Gabby (GA) Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    (((((Libby & Doug)))))

    I'm not one of the "new" members and remember you both and Hershey with great fondness. Many who spend time here after their cats go OTJ or after their kitty becomes one of our guardian angels. And then there are those of us who still hang around.

    I have always believed that our kitties tell us when it's their time. We just need to be smart enough to listen and put their needs ahead of our own. You are listening to Hershey and have made a decision that, no matter how gut wrenching, is a decision made out of your love and devotion. For those of us who have stood in your shoes, we know how hard that decision is.

    A few days after I helped Gabby embark on her adventure to the Rainbow Bridge, I came across this quote. I hope it offers some solace. "Cats never completely leave you. They side step time, shrug off death - come at the call of memory their beauty undiminished, their touch as gentle, their love perpetual."

     
  19. Rosie & Bailey

    Rosie & Bailey Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Sep 4, 2018
    Thank you for sharing your sweet stories about Hershey. Hugs for tomorrow :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  20. JoyBee&Ravan

    JoyBee&Ravan Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 17, 2018
    I've been thru this 13 times, It never gets any easier. My tears are falling & my heart is aching for you,
    Wishing you Peace & Wonderful memories :bighug:
     
  21. Wendy&Neko

    Wendy&Neko Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Feb 28, 2012
    {{{{Libby and Doug and the not so young beans}}}} I am so sorry it is time to say goodbye to Hershey. :bighug::bighug::bighug:

    Of course I remember you, the stories with Hershey and Oreo and the kids and grandbeans. And of course how Hershey decided he liked Lev from the very start! 7 years a diabetic is a testiment to your loving care for Hershey. The hardest gift of all is what you are doing tomorrow. No regrets, you did everything you could. :bighug:
    Those GAs that remember Hershey, and they are legion, will be there to greet Hershey at the Bridge.cat_wings>o
     
  22. Chubba (GA)

    Chubba (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Apr 30, 2017
    I am so sorry it is Hershey’s time to leave you. I didn’t know you or Hershey, but thank you for sharing a “glimpse” of him with me. He sounds like a wonderful kitty. You helped him with his fight as long as his body could fight. Sending vines of comfort, healing, and peace during this difficult time. :bighug:
     
  23. tiffmaxee

    tiffmaxee Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 15, 2013
    I’m so sorry it’s time. You are giving that last gift we never want to give but do because we love themso much. :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  24. carfurby (GA)

    carfurby (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 19, 2012
    I'm so sorry. Sending prayers. :bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  25. Bron and Sheba (GA)

    Bron and Sheba (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 21, 2015
    I am so sorry it is Hershey’s time. :bighug:
     
  26. MommaOfMuse

    MommaOfMuse Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 26, 2010
    (((((( Libby and Doug))))))

    I'm so so sorry that it's Hershey's time to leave you. I wish I had words to ease the pain. But there are no words, when we lose our long time dance partners.

    Just remember this isn't good-bye, it's merely until I see you again on the other side of the rainbow.
     
  27. Libby and Lucy

    Libby and Lucy Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    ((((Doug and Libby)))) thank you for the PM to let me know what is going on. I’m so sorry to hear that you will be losing Hershey. Look at all the extra time and love you were able to give him. Something about giving insulin to a cat creates such an amazing bond, and after enjoying that bond for so long, I can’t imagine how hard this must be. Fly free, sweet Hershey...
     
  28. Sonia & Leo

    Sonia & Leo Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    May 24, 2018
    I'm so very sorry. :bighug:
     
  29. Josie & Ripley (GA)

    Josie & Ripley (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Nov 10, 2012
    (((Libby and Doug))), I’m so sorry. I have fond memories of Hershey and send you comfort during this difficult time. I will be thinking of you tomorrow as Hershey earns his wings. You’re right: it’s never long enough.

    Fly free, sweet Hershey. ❤️
     
  30. Darwin H.

    Darwin H. Member

    Joined:
    Nov 27, 2018
    Deepest heartfelt Condolences. For you and Hershey. And all of us on this path together at this time.
     
    Last edited: Dec 5, 2018
  31. Ella & Rusty & Stu(GA)

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

    Joined:
    Jan 11, 2010
    Dear Libby & Doug, :bighug::bighug::bighug:
    Hershey is beginning his new adventure, but he will always be with you in that special place in your hearts that belongs only to him. You are giving him the best gift we can give our kitties: a peaceful and safe journey to a place where he will be welcomed by old friends, who will keep him "in good paws" until that wonderful day when you will be reunited.
    The Bridge Kitchen will be hopping tomorrow, preparing a welcome dinner for their friend, and all the GAs will be there, crowding around Hershey when he arrives on his beautiful golden wings.
    Fly Free, dear boy! cat_wings>o You are much loved and fondly remembered.

    In deepest sympathy,
    Ella & Edward, Rusty (GA) and Stu (GA)
     
  32. Squalliesmom

    Squalliesmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jun 26, 2015
    I am so sorry. My heart hurts for you. No matter how long they’re with us, it’s never enough, but our hearts will hold them forever.

    Fly free, sweet Hershey, and land softly at the Bridge, where so many of our beloved kitties wait to greet youcat_wings>o
     
  33. Michelle and Mannie (GA)

    Michelle and Mannie (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    I am so very sorry to read that it is Hershey's time. I have always felt in my heart that the gift of freedom is the greatest gift we can give our kitties. It is also the hardest. Know in your hearts that Hershey is grateful, as he knows this gift is given out of love, compassion and understanding. He will always be with you, in your minds eye, and tucked away in that special place in your heart. He will watch over you. Fly free Hershey, land softly at the Bridge. There are so many GA's that will be waiting for you, and help you find your way. They are waiting for a dear friend. Watch for them. We can all so see the grand feast at the Bridge Kitchen, all waiting for Hershey to arrive on his golden wings.

    My deepest sympathies to you, Libby and Doug. I will always remember your boy.
    Michelle and Mannie (GA) :rb_icon:


    SunsetRainbow with tree.jpg

    For Hershey... so that he may always have grass at his feet, trees to climb, the sun on his back, meadows to run in, rainbows to remember you by.... Fly free little one
     
  34. majandra

    majandra Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 11, 2018
    So sorry :(
    Cried reading your post- it's so hard to say goodbye.
     
    Krystina & Nelli likes this.
  35. Bellasmom

    Bellasmom Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Feb 12, 2018
    I am so very sorry:bighug::bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  36. Dyana

    Dyana Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    My heart is breaking for you, Libby and Doug and family.
    The bond we build with our sweet sugar cats is so strong, and it's so hard when it's time for them to pass.
    Hershey, you will always be loved very very much, and missed. Big Tears.
    God Bless. Gentle passing, soft landing, and send your loved ones a sign you made it. :rb_icon:
    I will light a candle to help him find his way.
    cat_wings>o
     
  37. Chubba (GA)

    Chubba (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Apr 30, 2017
    Thinking of you today. :(
    :bighug::bighug::bighug:
     
  38. Gill & George

    Gill & George Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Oct 27, 2015
    I'm so sorry that it is time for Hershey to leave you.
    7 years of treating FD is testament of your love for Hershey, he's a lucky kitty to have had such devoted beans.
    Sending vines of comfort and peace.

    Farewell and land softly at the Bridge Sweet Hershey.
    :rb_icon::rb_icon::rb_icon::rb_icon::rb_icon:
     
    Krystina & Nelli likes this.
  39. Lisa and Do Lou (GA)

    Lisa and Do Lou (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jan 10, 2010
    (((((hugs))))) I am so sorry it is time for Hershey to leave you sending you lots of love and support from
    Lisa and Do Lou (GA)
     
  40. MJ+Donovan

    MJ+Donovan Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 28, 2009
    <3
    Hugs.... try to take comfort in knowing so many sugar warriors will greet Hershey at the Bridge :rb_icon:

    MJ + Donovan
     
  41. Squeaky and KT (GA)

    Squeaky and KT (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 19, 2011
    Soar high on your new angel wings sweet boy....land softly back in your family's broken hearts....

    More hugs Libby and Doug...what a party is happening at the Bridge - so many of our 'old' babies greeting each other with cake and ice cream. :)
     
  42. Marje and Gracie

    Marje and Gracie Senior Member Moderator

    Joined:
    May 30, 2010
    (((Libby and Doug)))). My deepest condolences as you set Hershey free to start his new journey. I remember when you switched him to Levemir and always will remember your and Doug’s devotion to him.

    May you find peace...fly free, Hershey.
     
  43. Noah & me (GA)

    Noah & me (GA) Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Dec 3, 2016
    from our boys :bighug: :bighug: :bighug: :bighug: :bighug:
     

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