UPDATE January 2012
ANGEL IS STILL 100% CANCER FREE!!! She goes for her 2 year check up on May 5, 2012. Angel's been in remission since her 1st chemotherapy treatment in September 2009; almost 3 years!! We are forever grateful to everyone who donated, prayed and BELIEVED that Angel would make it. Angel is feeling great and no one can tell that she is a SURVIVOR until we tell them. We are on an amazing journey and can't wait to see what happens next.
Angel still wakes us up every morning and reminds us that it's time to eat everyday at exactly 4pm. :) She sleeps on the bed snuggled next to us, or on the dog bed snuggling with Doo Doo. We rescued Sway-Z shortly after Angel's return from NC State and he was exactly what our family needed. Since then we've had countless dogs come into our home to recoup after leaving the shelter.
Angel is a natural born leader, so it makes sense that all of the fosters seek her approval. Angel is also a gifted teacher and she teaches us something new everyday. Car rides, daily walks and trips to the dog park are all part of our routine. Angel also enjoys greeting all of the volunteers that come through our home.
Since her last update she rode a float in Barkus; got into a dog fight; mastered basic obedience; had her 7th Birthday & 1 Year SURVIVOR ANNIVERSARY; visited the White House, Washington Memorial & the Lincoln Memorial; went on a road trip that took her through 8 states; said goodbye to an old friend; said hello to LOTS of new friends; rolled in the mud; hung her head out the window and lived life to the fullest!!
Angel brings so much joy and love into our home. Everyday we wake up, give her a big kiss and give thanks for every precious moment that she is with us Thank you all again for saving her life. We promise to post updates soon!!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE December 2010
December 1, 2010: Angel Sullens is helping her best friend Doo Doo celebrate his 7th birthday :) They had poochie ice cream with breakfast and bones are on the horizon! The last 7 years have been incredible, here's to 7 more..CHEERS! Happy birthday Big Doo Doo!
December 2, 2010: Angel Sullens Today GRESSA is checking out of NC State as a SURVIVOR!!! She's surprisingly unnafected by all she's been through and her spirits are high :) Her Mama will send pics soon. Please keep Gressa and her fam in ur thoughts as she begins the recovery process. Thank you!!
December 9, 2010: Angel Sullens Loves the cold weather and the handsome yellow lab that just moved in next door! Now she has friends at each fence. Angel enjoyed a long walk this am w/Manda, Sway-Z & Doo Doo - now she's enjoying a well deserved nap :)
December 11, 2010: is on the road again! She's helping Johnny pack the car as I type and then we are headed to sunny Florida to pick up a 2nd car :) We are excited that Save-An-Angel will have it's own party bus now. So many beads, so little time! Plus this will give Angel more opportunities to hang w/her homies at the dog park. Angel Baingel is living life to the fullest and loving every minute!! Have an awesome weekend everyone:)
December 14, 2010: returned home last night. My apologies if you're waiting 4 a response, you'll hear from us 2day :) Save-An-Angel is donating blankets 2 local animal shelters in the area. Puppies are freezing on concrete floors, and donating 1 blanket will change the quality of their life instantly!! Please gather your old pillows, blankets, towels, sweatshirts & robes 4 dogs in your local shelters this holiday season :) Thank you!!
December 16, 2010: WOW!!! K-9 Magazine did a special report on canine lymphoma and featured Angel's story as written by Kerry Malak of Georgia's Legacy!! YAY :) http://www.k9magazine.com/canine-lymphoma-special-report/
December 18, 2010: Is snuggled up with her Pa and Swayzuhmus dreaming and snoring away :)
December 19, 2010: Woke me this morning by shaking me w/her paw & didn't give up till my feet hit the ground. Then she herded me 2 the door so she could go potty. Then she herded me 2 the food & flipped the container w/her nose, just in case I'd forgotten where it was ,) Now she's relaxing after destroying a toy w/Sway-Z. Now it's my turn 2 surprise Angel with a long walk :) Thanks 2 you Angel is living life & loving every minute!
December 20, 2010: Please watch Angel's story as told by Angela Hill of WWL-TV New Orleans to check in on Angel! This story also features the Save-An-Angel 2011 Calendar and all of the Saints who make Save-An-Angel possible :) Please visit our website,www.save-an-angel.org to meet the BMT pack, purchase calendars, find information or donate today! Thank you :)
December 20, 2010: Angel is lost without Romeo who has been at work w/his daddy all day, so it's just been Angel and Sway-Z at the house. Oh, and Manda, but that doesn't count cuz she stays in her apartment. Angel was a loving mother to Sway-Z, even though I could tell she missed Big Stinky.) Angel was wired, then sad, then chill. SO glad they're almost home! Angel is much happier when the pack is together. :)
December 21, 2010: This is our Christmas card to you!! We tried to email to all of the Saints, then we realized a note was much easier :) THANK YOU for saving Angel's life and giving us another Christmas with our girl!! YOU GUYS ROCK! :)
THANK YOU FOR BELIEVING!
Dearest Saints,
Thank you for believing in Save-An-Angel! Every one of you has made a difference in our lives, and we are forever grateful for your kindness.
Last year you prayed, donated, wished and chanted for Angel to receive a life-saving bone marrow transplant. Every penny and prayer we received helped Angel to her CURE. On May 3, 2010 Angel checked into North Carolina State University as a cancer patient. We checked her out 3 weeks later as a SURVIVOR!! Now, it's 7 months later and Angel is still 100% CANCER FREE without medication or chemotherapy.
When you donate to Save-An-Angel you're giving the gift of life! Every cent raised helps dogs like Angel receive the life-saving treatments they helped create. :) This holiday season we thank you for your continued faith in our cause, and for believing we can do it again! Save-An-Angel belongs to all of us.
Please consider donating to Save-An-Angel by purchasing a Save-An-Angel 2011 Calendar on our website, http://www.save-an-angel.org/. Calendars are on sale for $20 each. When it comes to donations, no amount is too small! Even $1 can help our dogs move one step closer to the cure. :)
Dolce is a 4 year old Boston Terrier that was diagnosed with lymphoma. Dolce is currently undergoing chemotherapy and is scheduled to receive a canine bone marrow transplant in Jan. 2011. Dolce's family is working hard to raise the money, and they've even received assistance from wonderful organizations like The Riedel and Cody Fund, Frankie's Friends and the Dog and Cat Cancer Fund. Dolce's family needs help raising the additional funds needed for the cure.
If you'd like to donate to Dolce and read his story, please visit him on our website, http://www.save-an-angel.org/BMT_Pack/dolce.html and please add Save Dolce on Facebook to track his progress: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001677123954
Potter is a 4 year old pit-mix that was diagnosed with lymphoma. He is currently undergoing chemotherapy and is scheduled to receive life-saving canine bone marrow transplant in Feb. 2011. The procedure will be performed at North Carolina State University. Potter's family is halfway to their goal of $16,000. They still need your help to raise the additional $8,000 for Potter's cure.
Please visit Potter's page on our website to learn more or to donate, http://www.save-an-angel.org/BMT_Pack/potter.html, and please add Potter's Hope as friend on Facebook to track his progress, http://www.facebook.com/pages/Potters-Hope/126927604031081.
If you purchase a calendar in Potter or Dolce's name, the profits will go directly to their families. Please note, "4 Potter" or "4 Dolce" in the notes. :)
Merry Christmas to all of you! We can't wait to see what the new year holds :) You are all TRUE SAINTS!! Thank you!
Good Things,
Kristie Sullens -- Angel's Mama
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX
Read entire note by clicking here.
December 25, 2010: If Angel could talk, she'd say THANK YOU for saving my life!! We are so grateful that Angel lived to see another Christmas with her pack :) YOU are our Angels and we hope you have the BEST CHRISTMAS EVER!! Love, The Sullens Pack xo
December 28, 2010: Arrived in New Orleans last night just in time to watch the Saints secure their spot in the play offs when they beat the Falcons 17-14 :) WHO DAT! All 3 dogs were amazing in the car sleeping and cuddling the entire trip. Save-An-Angel 2011 Calendars are on sale for $20 on our website, proceeds to canine cancer treatments :) Have a happy Tuesday!
December 29, 2010: This year Save-An-Angel is teaming up with The Riedel and Cody Fund to make a float for Barkus!! We need donated supplies, volunteers and ideas. We are just getting started & have 7 weeks to complete the float. All suggestions are welcome :) Thank you!!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE November 2010
November was an amazing month for Angel! She had the opportunity to meet Angela Hill, the SAA 2011 Calendars were published, she went on a road trip to Oklahoma and she got to play with her family and friends! This Thanksgiving we have so much to be grateful for. THANK YOU FOR SAVING ANGEL'S LIFE!!! The hoildays just wouldn't be the same without her :)
November 4, 2010: Angel Sullens is enjoying the beautiful weather! She's spent the entire morning outside & only comes in 2 break 4 water. Angel looks so happy:) BINGO UPDATE: Bingo had a 2nd transfusion & is feeling more like himself each day! His family thanks u 4 the prayers & wishes & they ask that u continue 2 send positive energy his way. We have 6 note spaces left in the calendar! $20 includes 1 pic & 4 lines of text.Email 4 details THANK U!
November 16, 2010: Angel Sullens is super excited about her upcoming interview with the one and only ANGELA HILL!! Johnny had the opportunity to meet her when she announced that the Save-An-Angel booth was selling raffle tickets at Pet Fest. He handed her a flyer and she even bought some tickets! Last night after dinner the phone rang and it was Ms. Hill offering to do a story on Save-An-Angel!!! Woot! Woot!! :)
November 20, 2010: Angel Sullens Had so much fun visiting everyone last night :) this am she shared my pillow and cuddled for hours. When I feed the dogs Romeo always waits to eat until all are served. 2day he took a bite, realized no one else has food & so he promptly spit his food out! Lol! He's such a gentleman :)
November 22, 2010: Angel Sullens had fun running errands all morning. Everyone who passed us on the road said hello to her or honked as she hung her head out of the passenger side window:) We stopped by Dr. Tosh's to drop off a calendar & to remind everyone about the interview w/Angela Hill tomorrow at 10pm on WWL-Channel 4! Doo Doo just got his A.A.R.F card since his 7th birthday is next week. Whose comin' to Da Pawty in OKC?!
November 26, 2010:Angel Sullens is enjoying her vacation! She's been playing with old friends and making some new ones :) The weather is cold and the dogs love it. We just returned from a long walk where Cherokee, who is 5, walked Angel and Doo Doo ran around w/out a leash. Man I love the country....Oklahoma you're OK!
November 29, 2010: Angel Sullens Great news from North Carolina!! GRESSA SURVIVED THE TRANSPLANT!!!Dr. Suter called Gressa's Mom Vicki Hunt and said Gressa is out of the woods and can go home Wednesday or Thursday. She is jumping up and down and the tail is wagging. :) Her Mama's tail is wagging too!! CONGRATULATIONS GRESSA!!! - See Gressa's page under the BMT Pack on our site to read her story and follow her progress!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE October 2010
October 15, 2010: Angel Sullens: is off to her 5 month Check-Up this morning :) I'll update this afternoon with GOOD NEWS! Remember Gressa? She's a beautiful 6 year old Doberman that will check into NC State to receive a CANINE BONE MARROW TRANSPLANT in 1month! She's still in complete remission and doing awesome! We can't wait to share her journey with you :)
October 18, 2010:Angel Sullens went to the vet on Fri. for her 5 month post-transplant check-up & I'm happy to report that she is still 100% CANCER FREE!!! We are SO GRATEFUL to all of you who have made Angels life possible :) She looks & feels fantastic! Chasing after Sway-Z has done wonders 4 her figure,)October 20, 2010: Angel Sullens is excited about Gressa & Dolce's journey to NC State! Gressa the Doberman goes N 4 her transplant in November & Dolce the Boston Terrier will receive his BMT in December! Dolce's Mama Lindsey Michelle is working hard 2 raise the $$ needed 2 save Dolce's life, while Gressa's Mom Vicki Hunt is helping her baby prepare 2 win the fight of her life! Your stories are inspiring & we are grateful 2 share them on our site:)
October 22, 2010: Angel Sullens is excited that our cause just reached 500 members!! Thank U 4 spreading the word:)
October 26, 2010: This weekend Angel will b n the capable hands of Miss Donna Elaine Kavanaugh Bocskov Dog Sitter Extraordinare while her parents attend the The Riedel & Cody Fund, Inc. launch party N Connecticut! We R excited 2 be a part of this momentous occasion :) Happy weekend 2 all of U &, as always THANK U 4 making Angel's life possible-she's enjoying every minute of it!
Angel Sullens Everyone, I'd like to invite you all to visit The Riedel & Cody Fund, Inc. fan page! This organization donated $5,000 to Save Angel's life and that is just the beginning :) The Riedel & Cody Fund offers a place for people to connect with other families that are going through the same thing. You can apply for financial aid on thier website http://www.riedelcodyfund.org/index.html, share ideas & find answers about your recently diagnosed companion. Please visit RCF's fan page & Please Share with your friends :) Thank you!
Angel Sullens AWESOME NEWS! I just heard from Kristen, the new nurse at NCSU. She told us that a pet insurance company called, PET PLAN covered 70% of the Canine Bone Marrow Transplant procedure costs for their last patient. 70% of $16,000!!!
All NCSU had to do was tell the company that the BMT was not an experimental procedure or clinical trial. One of the best things you can do for your animal is purchase health insurance when they're young, and always include a CANCER RIDER. We'd have saved close to $8,000 in chemotherapy costs if we'd known about the CANCER RIDER. PLEASE CHECK THIS SITE OUT!
1 in 3 dogs are diagnosed with cancer each year, that's the same as humans! 70%! I'm switching our dogs TODAY :)
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE September 2010
September 2 - Angel Sullens: can't be trusted w/the windows rolled down. Yesterday we spotted a lost dog w/collar. I turned my head for 2 sec & then I heard THUD-THUMP! Angel jumped out of the window and onto the grass where she hovered over the terrified dog 2 ensure he stayed put. I'd have been mad if it wasn't so helpful :) We looked 4 Rudy this AM w/no luck.Thanks 4 the tip Paul Giovingo. Never found wandering pooch...U have any luck?
September 8 - Angel Sullens: has her 4 month check-up tomorrow :) They'll run a CBC and when her tests come back cancer free she'll finally be declared, "Out of the Woods"!
September 9 - Angel Sullens: BREAK OUT THE CHAMPAGNE & LET THE CELEBRATION BEGIN!!! Angel's blood work came back clean & her lymph-nodes are tiny :) ANGEL IS STILL 100% CANCER FREE!! Today marks 4 months since Angel's canine bone marrow transplant, which means that she is officially "OUT OF THE WOODS"!!! We'll be floating around in the clouds for the rest of the afternoon, so just look up and holler if you need us :)
September 13 - Angel Sullens: This weekend Johnny and I decided to adopt our foster puppy, Sway-Z. We never intended to keep him, but puppy love prevailed :) We are grateful to Denise DiLosa for saving him from traffic & to Alissa Johnson with Animal Helper for saving him from being euthanized. You are true Saints!! Angel & Doo Doo are VERY HAPPY! It's almost as if they took a sip from the fountain of youth :)
September 17 - Angel Sullens: is excited to hear that NC State University is starting to perform Bone Marrow Transplants on small dogs! Now all of Angel's pint sized friends have the chance to beat cancer too :) Please remember to enter your fur baby in the Save-An-Angel photo contest! Thank you!!
September 20 - Angel Sullens: is relieved that Sway-Z went 2 the vet 2day instead of her :) Does anybody know a trainer or dog behavioral specialist in the area that might help us out? We've got a pit-bull named NOLA that needs 2 be evaluated for little or no money. Referrals are greatly appreciated!! She's FABULOUS around people, but she seems scared of dogs. She's HW+, so it's urgent that we see somebody ASAP! Thank you!!
September 23 - Angel Sullens: Is such a good sister :) She looked out for Sway-Z all afternoon while his eye was messed up. Angel was so confused (& a lil jealous) at the vet when Sway-Z was the patient instead of her. The doc made sure to make Angel feel like a star ,) everyone @ the vet is amazed @ how healthy she looks which made us feel great!
September 24 - Angel Sullens: received her 1st chemotherapy treatment exactly 1 year ago today :) Words cannot describe the joy & gratitude we feel. Thank you, all of you, for giving Angel a second chance at life!! You are the Saints that make Angels life possible, and we are forever grateful for your kindness :)
Pictured above: Angel 9/24/10 - 1 year from her first chemotherapy treatment :)
September 30 - Angel Sullens: Yesterday I got news that someone dear 2me passed away. I was understandably shaken & started 2 cry. Angel walked over & offered her back for me 2 lean on. Once I'd composed myself she licked me, grabbed a toy & started throwing it around w/a smile :) she put on a show until I laughed & played 2! She is amazing :)
Angel Sullens Angel lived it, Georgia's Legacy wrote a story about it and K9 magazine published it! Read about canine bone marrow transplants and Angel's journey to the cure on Georiga's Legacy's site:) THANK YOU GEORGIA'S LEGACY!!!
CLICK HERE TO READ STORY AT www.fightcaninecancer.com
August 30, 2010: Angel Sullens is taking a well deserved nap after wearing Sway-Z out in the backyard :) Her weekend was full of naps and cuddles - we only walked them once because it rained so much. She didn't seem to mind as long as she was in someone's lap! Hopefully we can get a long walk in this evening before dinner...
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE August 2010
The foster that was lined up backed out at the last minute, so Johnny and I agreed to take "Lost Boy" into our home. We figured this was the perfect opportunity to give back, after receiving so much. "Lost Boy" was named Sway-Z and from that day forward he's been part of the pack. Angel and Romeo love to chase him and Sway-Z is exactly what this family needed to keep us on our toes and off our butts!
Here are a few status updates from Angels' Facebook Page for the month of August....
Pictured left: Sway-Z & Angel cuddling in bed :)
August 9, 2010: Angel Sullens is helping Mama puppy proof the house :) It looks like she's going to have another roommate for the net few weeks! On Wednesday "Lost Boy" will come to live with us until we can find him a forever home. Angel and Romeo met "Lost Boy" met this weekend and it they really hit it off! He's SUPER SWEET & he's got lots of puppy power to keep Angel and Doo Doo on their toes. Any ideas on what we should name him?
August 11, 2010: Angel Sullens Awesome news! Yesterday, OPRAH asked her viewers 2 send N show ideas 4 her final season that starts N September :) This is a perfect opportunity for us 2 start a MUCH NEEDED conversation about canine cancer, from diagnosis 2 cure! I welcome you 2 post ur ideas about how we should proceed, what should be included & any tips that will ensure our package gets noticed. I can't wait 2 see what you come up with :) TY!
Pictured above: Romeo & Angel at her appointment on 08/06/10
August 18, 2010: Angel SullensAngel Sullens is finally starting to warm up to Sway-Z :) She hasn't been able to play with her toys since he's been here and it's really wearing on her. But, this morning I caught Sway-Z napping next to Angel and she hasn't bucked up to him for hours! They even enjoyed a wrestling match in the yard - Angel Won! Now she's curled up with her Doo Doo on the couch looking like something out of Hallmark Card :)
August 18, 2010: Angel Sullens just got a nice cool bath out back that put an extra pep in her step! Now she is barking her head off on the front porch with Doo Doo and Sway-z :) Everyday at 4:30 (on the dot) Angel runs out front to make sure and greet all of her neighbors as they get home from work. She's so thoughtful!
August 23, 2010: Angel Sullens Georgia's Legacy wrote a wonderful article about the benefits of Canine Bone Marrow Transplants! This article is very informative and it takes you through Angel's journey to the cure :) It's been picked up by K-9 Magazine online and that's just the beginning! Thank you Georgia's Legacy for sharing Angel's story. There are so many dog parents out there that will be very relieved when they read that there's hope! Please read and pass it along to your friends and family :) Thank you! Bone Marrow Transplants Offer a Cure for Canine Lymphoma <---Click to read the story!
August 23, 2010: Angel Sullens is taking a well deserved nap after wearing Sway-Z out in the backyard :) Her weekend was full of naps and cuddles - we couldn't walk them much because it rained so much. She didn't seem to mind as long as she was in someone's lap! Hopefully we can get a long walk in this evening before dinner...
August 31, 2010: Angel Sullens savors every single second! We dropped Johnny off this am & it was pouring down rain. Once he was out of the car Angel called shotgun by jumping N the front seat. She politely rolled her window down & stuck her head out n2 the rain making sure 2 soak up every drop! Once home Angel had a wet head & a huge smile on her face :) I'm so grateful for these moments!
Thank you for following Angel's updates! She is feeling fabulous and we are grateful every single day for the gift that she's been given by all of her Saints! Thank you for this time with Angel :) She was worth every single penny!!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Monday August 2, 2010
Hello everyone, Angel is feeling AWESOME! She has tons of energy and Johnny calls her, "a spark plug on four legs"! It's amazing to see what a difference 2 months can make :) Angel couldn't walk around the block when she came home and now she can run 1 mile without stopping!
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The picture on the left is right before we went on our walk...and the picture on the right is after we got back from out walk :) They were trying to squeeze in and share the a/c .)
She's taken to digging for crawfish in the backyard and chasing everything in site! She loves to watch the house from the front porch and if someone's got key's in their hand Angel's calling shotgun :) Doo Doo and Angel have to trade off the front seat when we go "buh-buy" and each one knows when it's their turn. Here is an update from Angel's FB from July 20, 2010:
"Angel Sullens --> is in rare form today. She hunted in the back yard for the better part of the morning & she only came inside the house to get water or to go out front. THEN she somehow built up enough momentum to catapult herself from the back of the moving car to the front seat where she landed in Doo Doo's lap! Sometimes I just gotta admire her ambition :)"
Facebook update July 22, 2010:
"Angel Sullens ---> loves to dig for crawfish! Who knew? Everyday she goes outside & digs her snout in the ground w/ pure drive & dedication - then she rolls her body all over the ground like she's casting a spell-it's very primitive. Anyways, we couldn't figure out what was keeping her interest until our landlord explained that there are crawfish in our backyard! This town never ceases to amaze me :) I wonder if she's caught any yet..."
Facebook update July 22, 2010:
"Angel Sullens --->just got back from the seeing Dr. Garon :) Her skin is looking great & as always, Angel is 100% cancer free!! We are going 2 up her Omega 3's by 2,000 mg. She LOVES her Advocare! Omega's have are a natural anti-inflammatory + cancer HATES Omega 3's cuz it can't feed on them & it makes Angel's hair oh so shiny! It's ...also great for the joints .) We're looking forward to the dog park this afternoon when it cools off"
The pictures below are of Angel at her last vet appointment :)
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Angel is living it up and having the time of her life! We just started a new sleep schedule to make sure that the dogs (and humans) have time to exercise while it's still cool outside. It's working out so far and I especially like the fact that Angel is resting in the morning instead of being restless.
Angel has also been busy posing for pictures with Save-An-Angel's latest Saints! Below is a picture of Angel with 2 new members of the Save-An-Angel Family! The Lehmann's from Kenner donated 30+boxes of Mardi Gras Beads, Toys and Plushies!! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR GENEROUS DONATION!! You are true Saints :)
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Save-An-Angel sells Mardi Gras Beads on eBay and to riders during the parade season to raise money for the cause :)Do you have extra Mardi Gras Beads lying around taking up space in your attics, garage or laundry rooms?If you'd like to clear out the clutter and donate to a good cause then please contact us! We will be happy to take those old beads off your hands :) -->ksullens@save-an-angel.org |
We recorded some footage of Angel and Doo Doo playing in the yard a few days ago -it's her first recording since she's been back :) I'll upload the video ASAP!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Monday July 19, 2010
Hello everyone! Please vote for Save-An-Angel on The Influence Project website by clicking the link below. There is no registration required - just click the link http://influenceproject.fastcompany.com/v/dhn0/welcome and then click again once you're on the site - it's as easy as 1, 2, 3 :)
We also welcome everyone to check out our new Facebook Fan Page! We have met so many wonderful people on Angel's journey to the cure and we make more friends everyday :) We hope that by having a Fan Page we will attract even more people to this worthwhile cause. Please pass us along to your friend and family! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!
Last but not least please check out Save-An-Ange's online fundraiser that is being hosted by Thirty-One Gifts! Thirty-One Gifts will donate 20% of every order purchased through this link Click here to visit Save-An-Angel's Online Fundraiser! We only have $50 left to go until we reach our goal :)
This online sale is being managed by one of Angel's Saints, Brooke Troxclair who will be happy to answer any of your questions. Email Brooke directly by clicking her name or you can email Kristie Sullens here, ksullens@save-an-angel.org.
This information is also available on our Give Page.
Thanks so much for looking - Happy shopping :)
P.S. Angel is feeling great today :) She enjoyed a long walk this morning while it was still dark outside and she's been napping ever since. Last night we gave her and Doo Doo baths and even though she wasn't too excited at first, by the end she was very grateful. You could tell she felt like a new dog by the way she was prancing around the house .) She fell asleep on my pillow and she hogged it all night, which is exactly why I have 3! Angel goes to the vet for a check up on her skin this Thursday and then after that she will only see Dr. Garon once per month. I'll update you then...Thank you for following Angel's updates!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Thursday July 15, 2010
http://influenceproject.fastcompany.com/v/dhn0/welcome
The updates this week have been copied directly from Angel's Facebook:
Wednesday 7/7/10: Angel has been itching like crazy and each time we notice we give her a bath. Further investigation of the itch sites showed that Angel has icky red bumps on her body. Hopefully it's something easy that Dr. Garon can fix at Angel's appointment tomorrow :) Until then I'm on "itch patrol" - my mission: to distract Angel from scratching herself!
Thursday 7/8/10: Angel just got done exercising on the treadmill! She can't resist the peanut butter reward :) Maybe that will tire her out enough to get a restful nap. She's finally snoring so that's my cue to get back to work! Thanks for the advice everyone.
Friday 7/9/10: Angel Is napping after dinner. Angel went to the vet this morning and she received a clean bill of health :) Her platelets are 199,000 - woot woot! Turns out that she has allergies (inhalant) so she's on anti-biotic and she's still 100% CANCER FREE!!!
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Pictured above: Romeo and Angel waiting patiently for Angel's name to be called at Riverlands Animal Hospital last week. |
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Angel waiting patiently at the Vet's office -- She's not as sad as she looks :) |
Tuesday 7/13/10: Angel is feeling much better now that the antibiotics are working :) She enjoyed her walk this morning and she's already settling in for her 1st nap. Save-An-Angel is finally coming together and it's looking like we will become a non-profit before the year is over! Is anyone up for doing a fundraiser for the wildlife or rescue dogs affected by the oil spill?
Wednesday 7/14/10: Angel was just hanging w/Doo Doo on the front porch where she barks everyone she sees! Now the ying yang twins are patrolling the backyard and catching some rays :) In a minute they will come inside for water, some a/c & a quick nap before starting the process over again...
Thursday 7/15/10: Angel slept on the floor all night, which is really wierd. It ended up making her super sweet while we were waking up this morning - she is such a joy to wake up around :) She's already started her morning patrol from the backyard to the front porch. You would think that the heat would keep her from wanting outside, but the hotter it gets the more she likes it ;) After Angel's appointment next week, Nurse Amy will request that she see the doctor once monthly for bloodwork - WOO HOO!! It figures - now that Angel is excited to go to the vet she will see her less often .)
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Angel riding shotgun on the way to pick up her Daddy from work :) |
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We are happy to report that Save-An-Angel is on it's way to becoming a Non-Profit Organization also known as 501(c)3! We wouldn't be here without you :) THANK YOU to everyone that is helping to make Save-An-Angel a success - you are true Saints! Just think of all the lives we will save together...We can't wait Your input is always appreciated, so please don't hesitate to contact us with your input via Facebook or Email.
Thanks to all of you for reading this and God Bless The Gulf!
I'll post another update next week :)
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Tuesday July 6, 2010
Angel had the best week ever!! She played in puddles, slayed countless plushies and of course her favorite thing in the world-eating Doo Doo's face off :)
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Angel LOVES playing in the puddles in her new backyard :) It's like going to the dog park, but instead of playing with other dogs they chase critters and fireflies.
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Angel goes to the doctor on Friday and I can't wait to hear that she has a clean bill of health! It just never gets old...
NOTE: Since these pictures were taken I've become aware of the possible dangers being posed to all life along the gulf coast. The dispersant - COREXIT - is being dumped into the gulf in unprecedented quantities . There have been reports - NONE OF THIS IS VERIFIED DUE TO THE MEDIA BLACKOUT - of oil in the rain and harmful gases in the air along the gulf coast.
We are taking every precaution possible to keep our dogs safe by not letting them play in the water, washing their feet when they've been outside & not letting them eat grass. Once we are convinced that the chemicals are being brought inland by rain - and that it poses an immediate threat to us OR the dogs - we will evacuate immediately. Until then, we are begging our gulf coast neighbors to be diligent and to BE INFORMED!
We will be posting information on our website. We hope that by working together we can protect ourselves from whatever it is that they don't want us to see. Above all I'd like to see every person and animal is safe and healthy when this is all over.
Knowledge = Power People! With the 1st amendment suspended indefinitely, we have no choice but to share information and to look out for each other's safety. I strongly believe that the most useful tool that we have at our disposal is our ability to research and share information.
Please send us any information that you'd like to share about the oil spill recovery efforts via Facebook or Email. Thanks to all of you for reading this and God Bless The Gulf!
UPDATE Tuesday June 29, 2010
Angel has been cleared for lift off! WOO HOO! WE LOVE YOU NURSE AMY! Angel's last visit to the vet was Friday, 6/25/10, and her platelets were at 110,000 :) This is a little lower than the last time, but Dr. Garon said that it's normal and it's enough to clot; Dr. Garon ALWAYS speaks the truth! We didn't know what to expect since her #'s had not gone up, but when I checked my phone later that evening there was a text from Nurse Amy saying "Ok - Angel can play now :)". This was the best news I had heard all week! Johnny and I did a happy dance and let Angel jump around w/us for the first time since her return! I'm so happy she's back :)
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Saturday morning we woke up and jumped out of bed! We did the usual stuff and then we did the unthinkable...We said, "ANGEL juan-uh GO-o fur-uh WALK?!" Doo Doo looked at Angel and she back at him before leaping off of the couch and wagging her body and jumping up to kiss us!! She was VERY excited to get her harness on! Angel walked for awhile and then she began to jog. It was amazing to feel her running beside me - strong, graceful and healthy :) Thanks everyone for giving us our girl back. I'll never be able to thank you enough.
So after the jog she went on a ride and rested for the entire afternoon. Sunday was filled with a quick visit to the dog park and countless tug-o-war games with Doo Doo! She's MUCH nicer to him now that they are allowed to play together; I think they missed this the most. Now they are back to stealing each others stuff and having random wrestling matches throughout the house :) Angel and Doo Doo even made a new friend named, "Mi Mi", at the dog park! It was perfect because we've been wanting to have Angel and Romeo certified as therapy dogs. It's something that they would enjoy and it's a wonderful way for Angel to give back. They did excellent with Mi Mi which made the decision for us, absolutely yes!
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There is one side note to today's post: We are strongly considering the possibility of Save-An-Angel becoming a Non-Profit Organization also known as 501(c)3. We want to make a difference and help facilitate real change in the canine cancer community. The only thing that we are missing is your input. What direction would you like to see Save-An-Angel move into?
I'll post another update this weekend :)
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Tuesday June 22, 2010
I can hear Angel pacing around the house as I type this. She's sniffing furiously in search of something that might entertain her. She's going bonkers from being told, "No, no Angel...Put that down. Go lie down. Don't mess with Doo Doo. ANGEL DON'T RUN!" Angel is feeling MUCH better and she's got the energy to prove it!
Doo Doo doesn't even think about starting something up with Angel because every time he does, Angel ends up taking her irritation out on him; she embodies the phrase "wound up". Doo Doo is taking it like a man, but we are all SO ready for the waiting to be over! Angel's next appointment is this Thursday at 1:00pm. She wasn't supposed to go for another month, but Nurse Amy wanted to be certain that Angel's platelets are where they should be.
Angel's weight is holding steady at 80lbs and she is eating like a horse! Her hair is still very thin, but it doesn't seem to be balding or coming out faster than usual, thank goodness! I'd hate to have to put sunscreen on her when I take her running in 2 weeks :)
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She's still weak in her hind quarters, but she's starting to do more things on her own. She can climb on the couch all by herself and she's even starting to balance on her back legs for treats which is a huge relief.
We've always given Angel daily massages, because she's rotten, but now they serve a purpose :) She gets massaged twice a day and it appears to relieve some of the discomfort she's been experiencing. Her skin is a little sensitive in some areas, but for the most part she's very open to being rubbed just about anywhere.
Hopefully, Angels muscles will continue responding to the massage and pending exercise. We are considering getting Angel certified as a therapy dog once she's cleared. I think that a lot of people will benefit from watching Angel's this little light shine! Plus she'd love the attention.)This is also a wonderful way for her to earn back some Karma points.
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Angel is still her super sweet, lovable, adorable, happy, attentive, perfect self!! It's been a pleasure taking care of Angel during her recovery. She's amazing dog and every morning when I wake up and stare at her from across the pillow I think of all of you -the people that have made Angel's life possible. I'm eternally grateful for this gift we've been given. THANK YOU!!!! I'll update again on Thursday :)
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Tuesday June 15, 2010
Usually Angel would just be getting out of the vet about this time, but today she's free to relax and nap through it. As you know, Angel's energy level has doubled over the last week and she is gaining speed! That's why Johnny & I decided that she would benefit from a short walk. Around 5:30am this morning, Johnny and I loaded the dogs in the car and drove 3 minutes to the levee right off of the Mississippi River. You can't see the river, but it's got a huge track w/grass on both sides that's perfect for sniffing. It was still dark outside which made it cool enough to enjoy a leisurely stroll.
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It was the 1st walk Angel's had outside of the house in over a week and she's showing wonderful improvement! She walked about 1 block up, sniffed, went potty & walked 1 block back. A few weeks ago this journey would have left her panting and struggling to put one foot in front of the other. But today she walked with her head held high and when she finished she didn't show the slightest hint of stress or exhaustion :) Angel & Doo Doo relished their 15 minutes of freedom and so did we! I can't wait until we're allowed to go back to our normal morning routine. Just a few more weeks!! I'll update again soon :)
Also, please visit Jessica's page to check in on how she's handling the bone marrow transplant; she checks into NCSU tomorrow. Jessica needs all of the prayers, chants and well wishes that she can get! Thank you!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Monday June 14, 2010
Angel is doing awesome! Her energy is high and every time she opens her eyes she starts in on me to let her outside. Her motivation is chasing critters which isn't allowed for 3 more weeks. She's sleeping in the living room by herself for several hours during the night; this is a big change from right next to me in the bed. I'm so proud to see her gaining her independence back - she's just not the same without it :) Angel currently has a lot of pent up energy and she tends to take out on Doo Doo - but he takes it like a man. She's still super adorable, cuddly, loving & sweet about 80% of the time :P
Angel is currently pouting on her couch after engaging me in a battle of the wills and losing :) Her appetite is EXCELLENT! She's back to being her little piggy self. Her energy is HIGH! It's not back to normal yet, but compared to 3 weeks ago she's like a brand new dog. Despite her constant nagging to play, she's taking naps nearly every hour. Her attitude is sweet to us, but like I said before she'll try to eat Doo Doo's face off to get him riled up. Thankfully he knows there's no playing allowed. Angel will be all better once she gets some of this pent up energy out. Until then it's nap time & snuggles 24/7...
Angel's appointment with the vet last Tuesday was supposed to be her final weekly appointment and after that she'd switch to seeing the doctor once per month. However, NCSU asked that Angel be seen again on Thursday, 6/24/10 to get her platelets checked once more to be absolutely certain that she's on track. I'll update you you soon and we will post pictures this week! Thank you all for everything that you've done to help us save Angel's life. We are so grateful to have her back!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Friday June 11, 2010
Well today Angel proved to be a very energetic patient! She'll have to be chained to my leg if she keeps having so much extra energy to burn :) She's constantly pacing from the front door to the back door, begging to go outside, needing more water, harassing Doo Doo, herding me from room to room...I'm exhausted just watching her try to lure me into playing! It's like she thinks if she stares at the back door long enough, it will magically open all by itself.
It's awesome to watch Angel come back to life, but it's VERY challenging to keep her from living it! 3 weeks from today Angel is finally free from bed rest. Doo Doo & I can't wait! That's basically how it has been all week. She has energy to burn and nowhere to release it, so she'll finally get fed up or bored and take a nap. Aside from that Angel is still being her sweet, lovable, attentive self :) Once she's able to run free she'll be back to 100%!
I'll update soon!
XOXOXOXOX
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Sunday June 6, 2010
We just got back from taking Angel to the vet. Her platelets were up to 149,000 from 60,000 last week! WOO HOO! A healthy count is 200,000 or above so Angel is right on track :) Angel is supposed to see the doctor one time per month once her platelets rise above 100,000, but Nurse Amy has requested that Angel be seen again in 2 weeks. That's cool with us, we'd rather be safe than sorry.
After Angel's appointment in 2 weeks she will go to monthly visits, which will be the longest break she's had in 8 months! Her weight is holding steady at 80lbs & she's gaining strength everyday! She's back to being miss independent again. She's been sitting taller ever since she realized that she's able to climb onto HER couch ALL BY HERSELF! Recovery is all about baby steps :) She's actually resting on her couch now as I type this...We are grateful for every single one of you! Angel has officially received every hug and kiss that you've sent her way :)
I'll update soon! XOXOXOXOX
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Sunday June 6, 2010
Angel is feeling better everyday! She's scared of the rain so today Angel did most of her sleeping in the living room under the desk to be near her peeps :) We were all unpacking in the living room and when the weather is loud she has to make sure that the entire pack is together. Her energy is rising, but she's still keeping a low profile and taking it really easy. 4 more weeks until she can even think about playing. Romeo is bored with the whole thing and you can always find him on with a plushie on standby in case we change our minds and want to play. We try to keep it as boring as possible so that Angel isn't tempted to move around. She's still sweet, snuggly & in bed between us every night...we are grateful for every second!!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Wednesday June 2, 2010
Hi everybody! I apologize for taking longer than usual to update, but we moved to a new home over Memorial Day weekend and it's kept us away from the computer. Angel is on bed rest until July 2, 2010 and we’ve been given strict orders to make sure she sleeps a lot, walks very little and doesn’t play with Romeo at all. This is mainly to ensure that she uses all of her energy for making platelets. This is critical because she received a transfusion at NCSU and duplicating that would be next to impossible.
In a perfect world we'd have waited a few more weeks to move, but we rent so the timing was out of our control. Angel was forced to move about more than she should have. We assure you that her stress level is back to zero and that it won't rise again. Angel handled the move like a trooper and she loves her new yard & front porch!! She was back on bed rest the instant our mattress hit the bedroom floor :) Angel's legs are weak from lying around which makes crawling into bed quite a chore. So for the next 4 weeks the mattress will remain on the floor and I will continue to share my side of the bed with Princess Angel & Sir Doo Doo :) Angel has slept between Johnny and I every single night since she’s been home and Romeo’s always close by at our feet.
Angel went to the vet on Tuesday June 1, 2010 to get her platelets checked; this was her 2nd appointment since she’s been home. Angel will have her blood drawn weekly until her platelets are over 100,000. Healthy numbers are 200,000 & above. Angel is currently up to 60,000 from 40,000 last week This is excellent news, but Nurse Amy said that they expected them to be a bit higher. We hope that being settled into our new place and keeping her 100% stress free over the next few weeks will do the trick.
They said that Angel would lose her hair from the irradiation. Her hair has thinned out A LOT, but she doesn't seem to be shedding any faster than usual. The hair that is lost after the procedure usually grows back white. It's a good thing Angel was light to begin with :) Her weight is holding steady at 81 lbs and she’s still just as much of a piggy as she was before She just eats smaller amounts throughout the day vs 2 meals; we feed her 1 cup in the A.M. and 1 cup in the P.M.
Angel is still very loving, happy and affectionate! She and Romeo are best buds and it’s a joy to see them with appreciating one another. Absence truly does make the heart grow fonder…Angel is still very sleepy and she can be found on our bed, sunning in the backyard or lying on the front porch, that's it! She's SO CUTE sleeping on a pillow with a smile on her face & the fan blowing her hair...We are grateful for every second that we spend together :) As always, thank you for helping us save Angel's life! I'll update again soon.
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Wednesday May 26, 2010
Angel is acting the same as yesterday. She enjoys riding in the car while hanging her head out the window with the a/c blasting :) This morning we walked 1/2 way up the street & back, which is quite a ways considering how tired she is. Angel enjoys short intervals in the sun, lying in the grass w/her belly to the sky!
Once Angel's done rubbing her body all over the grass she settles in for a catnap. After about 45 minutes of sleep she wakes up and is instantly by my side, nudging my hand with her head like when she was a puppy. This is her way of telling me to drop whatever I'm doing to love her up :) It feels so good to have her back!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Tuesday May 25, 2010
Angel had her 1st check up with Dr. Garon since she's been home this morning. Everyone was so excited to see her and she didn't seem the tiniest bit worried about the visit! Usually she freaks out a little on the way there, but today she just hung her head out of passenger side window and enjoyed ride :)
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Angel is required to get her blood drawn weekly until her platelets are over 100,000; after that she'll go once every month for 6 months. They say if a dog relapses from the transplant they will do so within 3-6 months. So far, the dogs are mimicking humans exactly, and humans relapse within 1 year. This makes sense because dogs do everything twice as quickly as humans. I know that Angel will remain cancer free until the end of her VERY LONG life BUT we must remain diligent because it's the responsible thing to do!
She is currently classified as CANCER FREE and once she's 4 months out from her transplant,(October 21), they expect Angel could live another 8 years without relapsing & with zero chemotherapy!!! Angel is the 23rd dog to receive the transplant at NC State and the longest dog out so far is 18 months - CANCER FREE!! Only time will tell but if dogs continue to mimic humans the way that they have in the past, Angel's chances of survival are phenomenal :)
Angel's platelets were at 60,000 from 40,000 on Friday!! WOO HOO!! We'll go back next Tuesday for another check-up. Dr. Suter called today to check in on Angel :) I told you those guys rocked!! NCSU WE LOVE YOU!! And to all of you reading this THANK YOU for continuing to follow Angel's progress! I'll update again tomorrow. XOXOXOXOXOX
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Sunday May 23, 2010
This morning Angel woke up in her own house for the first time in 2 weeks! It was so awesome to wake up to her keeping my feet warm :) We took her for a drive around 12pm because she is under strict orders from the doctor to keep a low profile for the next 4-6 weeks. THEY WERE VERY SERIOUS ABOUT THIS!! No playing with Romeo, no chasing squirrels, no swimming, dog park, etc...She is allowed to walk around the block 1 time or up the street until she is tired. We've set up some baby pools in the back that she can lounge in...if you came to Da Pawty you know what I mean .) The pools will keep her cool while allowing her to enjoy some extra time outside in the sun.
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The doctors also predict that Angel will lose her hair due to the irradiation and it's starting to look like they were right. She has thinned out quite a bit and she's shedding like a maniac! When the hair grows back it might grow in white, but that's ok with us, we'd love her even if she was bald!
While we were out on our drive we saw a stray dog running around looking for it's house. We stopped and tried to find it's owners with no luck. We ended up grabbing the dog and bringing it to our laundry room until we could figure something out. We posted flyers and asked Facebok for advice which was the best choice. They advised us to take the pooch to Metairie Small Animal to see if the owners would claim her.
I thought Angel would freak out about being back in a clinic setting, but she was totally cool with it! It's like she knew that it wasn't about her. I'm VERY relieved that she's not traumatized! The owners ended up calling us right after we dropped the dog off & they were happily reunited within the hour :) Angel is still eating well and drinking water by the gallon! I'll update you again tomorrow.
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Saturday May 22, 2010
Today was spent driving home from our last stop in Georgia. Romeo, Angel, Johnny and I enjoyed a long night of cuddling together and I was overjoyed to feel Angel trying to steal my pillows throughout the night :) Angel was very sleepy she and Romeo enjoyed long naps the entire ride home. The closer we got to the house, the more excited Angel became! We grabbed some dinner, unloaded the car and got right back to cuddling with Angel until we fell asleep with Angel snoring happily between us; this is where she remained all night long :) Her appetite is healthy and her spirit is strong- I'll update you tomorrow!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Friday May 21, 2010
Free at last! Free at last! Thanks to you and the wonderful people at NCSU Angel is cancer free at last!!! We picked Angel up today and she was thrilled to see Romeo! There was a very emotional goodbye with Angel’s new best friend, Nurse Amy & at least 15 people showed up to see Angel off :) They all told us about how much they loved having her as a patient & that she would be sorely missed...it was an amazing feeling! She’s quite the celebrity :)
Angel lost 6 lbs and they’ve predicted that she’ll lose most of her hair from the irradiation. The good news is that she was returned to us even more spoiled than she was when we dropped her off! We couldn’t ask for more :) I recommend this miracle program to anyone - It was worth every penny!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Thursday May 20, 2010
This morning Johnny, Angel and I (Kristie) are packing up the car and heading to North Carolina to pick up Angel from NC State! We are SO excited to see her :) THANK YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU'VE DONE TO GIVE ANGEL THIS SECOND CHANCE AT LIFE!! We are forever grateful to you and we promise to begin helping the next dog ASAP! We will be updating Angel's Facebook with constant updates and pictures.
Click here to see Angel's Facebook Page!
We will update the website as soon as we get home. Thank you so much for your continued prayers and support. Angel is the 1st of many dogs that we plan to save. ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE with Saints like you at our side :) HUGS & KISSES TO EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!! XOXOXOXOX
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Wednesday May 19, 2010
The Dr. called this morning and said, "Come get your girl! She's ready to go!" WOOT WOOT!! Her numbers are through the roof, her platelets are 46,000! Hooray!! Angel's tummy is settled today and she's back to acting like her sassy self! Yay! :) Nurse Amy pulled Angel's catheter today and she's bandage free!! She loves not having any bandages and she really loves getting the back of her neck scratched.
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Pictured above on the left is Lyndy, one of Angel's favorite Saints! Lyndy is one of the blood bank coordinators at NCSU. She hangs out with Angel and keeps her company :) She loves her as much as we do! On the right is Nurse Amy Angel's surrogate Mommy and new BFF!
We will head to North Carolina tomorrow to pick up our SURVIVOR :) THIS IS IT! Thank you - ALL OF YOU - for giving Angel the opportunity to fight cancer & WIN!! She owes her life to you and we can't wait to pay it forward :) Angel's the 1st of MANY dogs that we will save together!
I'll update Angel's Facebook daily and will update the website as soon as we get back into town. Click here to see Angel's Facebook Page!
HUGS TO ALL XOXOXOXOXOXOX
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Tuesday May 18, 2010
Nurse Amy said that Angel is doing awesome today! When she arrived to work this morning Angel was barking & pawing at the cage door - just full of herself! She said Angel almost ran outside!! Once outside Angel trotted around having a good ol time. Amy had to tell her to settle down!
Angel has 34,000 platelets today!! Woot! Her neutrophils are 4,223 & her total white count is 5,150, which is Awesome!!
Her antibiotics have been given through her IV (in her catheter) and today they started her on the oral antibiotics. This is the only antibiotic she'll take and it's just because they are being extra careful :) Nurse Amy thinks that they made her a bit nauseous - she threw up her breakfast. So, Nurse Amy gave Angel some anti-nausea meds first, then food, then a couple hours later the antibiotic. Hopefully that works better for her tomorrow. Even with that tiny adjustment she is still feeling great!!
Dr. Suter will call sometime this evening. It's looking like Angel will get to come home on Friday!! I'll update again when I hear back. As always, thank you for following Angel's progress!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Monday May 17, 2010
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS EVERYONE! THEY ARE PAYING OFF IN WAYS WE NEVER THOUGHT POSSIBLE! 1st Angel is cured and now a WONDERFUL organization called THE RIEDEL & CODY FUND just promised to donate $5,000 toward Angel's Bone Marrow Transplant and/or Post-Op Care!! We are so grateful for their VERY generous donation :) THANK YOU RIEDEL & CODY FUND for helping us SAVE-AN-ANGEL!!! We can't wait to see what you do next :)
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXXOXOXOXOXOX
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Monday May 17, 2010
Angel is doing really well today! She is perky, wagging her tail, giving kisses & eating great! She definitely feels much better after her transfusion :)
Her bloodwork looks awesome! Her White blood cells=3160 & the Neutrophils=2307. Her platelets are still at 7,000.
They say that its normal for the numbers to lower a bit after a transfusion. It gave Angel the "band aid" she needed while her own platelets are being made. They will check that number again tomorrow morning and it should be higher. They think that she is probably making her own platelets now and she shouldn't need another transfusion. She feels great! They discontinued most of her medications today and will wean her off of her fluids over the next couple of days.
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Angel with a few of the techs that took care of her in intermediate care :) She's smiling!
If tomorrow's numbers bring good news then she could be coming home as early as Friday!! I'll update you as more information comes in...
Thank you for following Angel's progress!Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Sunday May 16, 2010
I just got off of the phone with Dr. Suter. He said that the transfusion went smoothly & Angel is feeling awesome today! Her white blood cells are up to 3,000 today and climbing!
Dr. Suter says her platelets were at 0 yesterday but that the transfusion was the perfect band-aid and now they are up to a safe level As Angel's numbers rise her platelets will too.
When this happens they'll begin weaning Angel off of the antibiotics!! This means that her healthy immune system has kicked in & her body will be taking care of itself!
Her earliest release date is Friday, 5/21/10, and the latest is Monday, 5/24/10. As always, I'll keep you updated as more information comes in. Thank you for following Angel's progress!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Saturday May 15, 2010
I just heard from Dr. Suter & he said that Angel is doing well. Her neutrophils are up to 1,000 from 34 yesterday and rising! Her energy level has increased & she's eating and drinking like a little piggy :)
Angel sneezed blood this morning at 4am, so she's scheduled to receive a transfusion this afternoon. Her platelets are at 15,000 which is low; healthy numbers are around 200,000. This is totally expected and Dr. Suter told us to look at it as a routine band-aid that will get Angel through until her body adjusts.
Out of the 25 dogs that have received the bone marrow transplant there is only one dog that's needed 2 transfusions and 1 that needed 8. All of the others needed 1 or none :)
Angel's numbers will continue to rise, and as they do they'll send out signals to her body to create more platelets.
The donor dog belongs to a member of the NC State staff and he is giving blood as I type. They'll irradiate the donor dogs blood to kill all of the white blood cells. The irradiation takes 15 minutes & they'll use the same machine that was used for Angel's treatment on Friday 5/7/10.
Once they've "cleaned" the blood they'll administer the transfusion; this process takes 4-6 hours. They hope that Angel will be out of ICU in the next 2 days! For now she's being carted outside twice each day to go potty on her own private patch of grass.
Dr. Suter said that this is Angel's final hurdle and that once she gets past this she'll be home free :)
As always, thank you for following Angel's progress and for your continued love and support!
I'll update again tonight after I hear from Dr. Suter.
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Friday May 14, 2010
THE TRANSPLANT WORKED!! Angel's neutrophils are up to 34 from 0 yesterday & her White Blood cells are on the rise :)
Angel's platelets dropped from 54,000 yesterday to 4,000 today, so she's been transferred to ICU where she'll be checked hourly for bleeding. She's been matched with a doggy donor that is on-site all weekend, so she'll be safe if a transfusion is needed. Doc says her progress is 8/10!
Now we just wait and watch as her platelets level out and her neutrophils continue to rise; from here on out it's all about recovery.
Angel's going to live a VERY long, healthy and happy life!! THANK YOU for making this miracle possible. I'll update you as soon as we get another update.
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Thursday May 13, 2010
Angel's neutrophils are at zero today, which is totally expected. Dr. Suter says that the dogs are always a little depressed when their numbers get really low. Now it's just a waiting game...Tomorrow Angel's neutrophil numbers are expected to rise. Once they do it will be proof that the transplant worked!
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Pictured 1: Angel eating her dinner Picture 2: Angel getting her daily massage :) Picture 3: Angel falling asleep after her dinner and massage from Nurse Amy
Angel went potty in her room RIGHT before they were going to give in & take her outside. I'm sad that Angel missed the sunshine today, but keeping her indoors is the best thing for her. Today isolation is her friend :)
Thank you so much for your continued love and support! We appreciate you following Angel's progress. We'll update you as soon as more news comes in:)
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Wednesday May 12, 2010
A.M. Update: Angel is such a good girl that she refused to go potty inside of her isolation room! So, Nurse Amy had Angel carted to a "safe" spot of grass to do her biz this am :) She said that Angel was very relieved and she had fun riding on the cart!
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P.M. Update: Angel's white blood cells are currently sitting around 100 :) Once her cells start to rise above that number then we'll know that the transplant worked! Hopefully tomorrow's blood tests will reveal the answer that we've all been waiting for! If it doesn't happen tomorrow then we will know by Friday at the latest :)
Angel can leave isolation once her White Blood Cells cells skyrocket to a safe number, which should be very soon! She gets carted outside to go potty once each day :) The doctor said that her spirits are high & she's getting tons of love & attention! Nurse Amy says she's very popular and making lots of new friends :)
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Tuesday May 11, 2010
UPDATE: Angel's was moved into ICU today = Total Isolation. Her immune system is near zero, and they expect her numbers to rise by Thursday or Friday! Doc says she's feeling great, eating & doing her biz as usual. No upset tummy or depression to speak of, just good ol' fashion boredom :) Dr. Suter always makes sure to tell me how dripping sweet Angel is and how much everyone loves her. Cheers! To Angel! Here's to you feeling the sun on your belly by Thursday Bee Bee!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Monday May 10, 2010
A.M. Update: Angel is still feeling great! She's eating all of her food and she's not showing any sings of an upset stomach from the irradiation. Wed her white blood cells go to zero-this is the most critical point-considering her progress I'm confident she'll sail through it :) Dr. Suter says she's SOOO SWEET! It warms my heart that this experience hasn't changed her :) I'll update again this afternoon...
P.M. Update: Angel's in good spirits, but a little queasy. Tomorrow her white blood cells will go down to zero and she'll be checked into ICU aka Isolation. Isolation is necessary because she'll have no immune system. They expect this and she's moving right on schedule! We'll know by this weekend if the transplant worked. They can tell this by watching her neutrophils go from 0-3 to 1,000 & Up! This is Angel's hardest week yet, but after this she's home free!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Saturday May 8, 2010
Angel is still feeling great after everything she went through yesterday :) She's being super sweet to everyone she meets and is eating her wet food with vigor! Angel enjoyed her long walk this am and did her biz with no problems which is a really good sign.) She's pretty tired, but that's to be expected. I'll update again tomorrow!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Friday May 7, 2010
ANGEL JUST RECEIVED THE CANINE BONE MARROW TRANSPLANT!! Everything went perfectly and the doctor said she's doing fantastic!! She will be medically normal Sat & Sun. If the irradiation is going to make her sick then Angel will show signs of abdominal discomfort by Monday. THANK YOU NC STATE for going that extra mile & sending Angel's post-op photos! Thank you to everyone following Angel's progress :) This cause belongs to all of us!! Angel is just the beginning!
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Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Thursday May 6, 2010
Dr. Suter called last night to let us know that Angel is still 100% cancer free! They moved forward and performed the Leukopheresis Procedure today. This is procedure will harvest Angel's stem cells for implantation tomorrow, it's sort of like dialysis. Angel was placed under light sedation, Dr. Suter had to speak quietly so he didn't wake her.
The procedure is painless in humans, but they often complain of being cold. They assume that it's the same for dogs, so they put a blanket over them to keep them warm.
These pictures were received a few hours ago while Angel was receiving the Leukopheresis Procedure at NC State!
The machine was running for 4-5 hours and then Dr. Suter called with wonderful news! Angel produced 1.7 million more cells than needed for the transplant! Humans sometimes save these cells, but Dr. Suter gives them all back :) The more cells there are to pump in, the higher Angel's chances of living cancer free for the rest of her long and happy life!
Pictured above is Angel after her Leukopheresis Treatment! She's very thirsty and Nurse Jennifer said she's awake & is demanding lots of attention :) That's my girl!
Tomorrow morning at 7am EST Angel will be prepped for full body irradiation. She will receive 2 doses of radiation in 1 hour intervals and Angel will be heavily sedated for the duration of the procedures.
They will take a 3 hour break between each hour on. After the radiation is complete Angel will receive her life-saving Canine Bone Marrow Transplant! This procedure has "taken" every time and they expect Angel to sail through with ease :)
The irradiation will wipe out Angel's immune system, so a clean environment is critical to her recovery. She will wake up in ICU in a completely sterile room, safe from any outside germs or bacteria.
I'll keep you all updated as more information comes in.
Thank you for following Angel's progress!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE Tuesday May 4, 2010
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We just checked Angel into the NC State Canine Bone Marrow Transplant Unit!! Her new Mommy Amy, Dr. Suter & the rest of the team are incredible people and Angel is blessed to be in such loving, capable hands!!
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Pictured above is Angel's Dream Team: Left to Right - Dr. Steven Suter, Nurse Amy Bradbury & Dr. Keara Boss - There are many more miracle makers that are helping save Angel's life and you'll see them in upcoming updates :)
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Pictued above is Nurse Amy Bradbury at NC State getting aquainted with Miss Angel Bain-gel! Angel's getting used to her new digs :)
Thank you to everyone that has donated and continues to donate :) Your contributions are saving Angel's life!!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
Here are some pictures of Angel's ride to NC State's Veterinary Teaching College which will be her new home for the next 3 weeks!
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Above: Angel telling Daddy that everything's gonna be alright!
Below: Angel enjoying her ride to the cure!
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UPDATE Monday May 3, 2010
Angel had the best time on her road trip to the cure!
We arrived in North Carolina early this morning (5/3/10) and after some much needed rest, Angel went exploring with Romeo :)
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We spoke to NCSU this morning to get all of the details. They informed us that Angel will receive another bone marrow aspirate tomorrow, (5/3/2010), which requires a heavy sedative, so she’s not allowed to eat anything in the morning which means no meds either - woo hoo!
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Left Photo: Angel & Romeo eating and taking meds in the parking lot on the way to NC State!
Right Photo: Angel's daily pill regimine - Neupogen injections not shown
We will meet with Dr. Suter and Angel's “new Mama”, Nurse Amy, to discuss Angel’s recovery and what we can expect over the next 3 weeks.
Tomorrow we will kiss Angel goodbye and head back to New Orleans where we will monitor her progress from home online via picture messages & email. I’ll update you tomorrow when we know more THANK YOU for following Angel’s progress!
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
UPDATE May 1, 2010
Tomorrow morning Angel will make her way to the cure! (5/2/10) We will load the car tonight and head out 1st thing in the morning. Romeo, Angel, Johnny and I (Kristie) will drive 12 hours from New Orleans to North Carolina.
We will get some rest and head to North Carolina State University on Monday. We're arriving a day early so that Angel has the opportunity to meet her new friends and get used to her new surroundings with her pack at her back. Monday evening we will buy Angel a steak dinner- or something like it - and then we'll shower her with love and pray for her speedy recovery.
Tuesday, 5/4/10, we will check Angel into NCSU. This is when we will say goodbye to Angel and head back to Louisiana. NCSU will be Angel's home for the next 2.5-3 weeks.
Angel's Schedule:
May 1st: Neupogen injections
May 4th: Angel checks in at North Carolina State University
May 6th: Angel's Leukaphresis Procedure
May 7th: Angel's total body irradiation & transplant
We are grateful for every donation that has been made to save Angel's life! Every person that's donated has contributed to Angel's miracle, and we are forever grateful to all of you :)
We will continue to fundraise while Angel is in the hospital. The procedure is just the beginning, her need is still great. Once Angel is checked in, donations can be made directly to the school.
We hope that watching Angel's progress while she undergoes this life-saving procedure will inspire you to give and as always to help spread the word :)
Most Sincerely,
The Sullens Pack
Interview!