Felix is 名付其實的無膽貓

Felix was sick again in March 2019. Its within 6 months that problem with his bile duct recurred. After a series of examinations, Dr. Vera, the Internal Medical Specialist who has been attending to Felix since late November 2018 referred his case to Dr. Nicolas, the Surgeon.

 

Being accompanied by Rita (my friend who has sound medical knowledge and is also a cat parent), we met Dr. Nicolas and Dr. Karen on 14/3/19. Via ultra sound, early signs of blockage were noted. After careful explanation, I was presented with the option for surgery to remove the gall bladder, biopsy of the liver and an examination of the related area.

 

I opted for surgery that afternoon. Though I could take some time to think through it, as this operation is pretty risky (death rate of 30% for older cats and 15% for young ones). With Felix being a blood type B cat also complicate the issue (I need to find potential donor  - not easy). 

 

My thinking was as follows:

- The need to remove the gall bladder has been behind my mind since last September, though vet did not see the immediate need at that time since he reacted positively to medication.

- This surgery apart from removing the root of the problem, could also provide more information to better heal Felix.

- Apart from his ATL being high (at 15x above normal), he seemed to be in decent condition. He ate well, did not have anemia and had sufficient blood platelet. So why waste the time and wait till things turn bad to do it. Usually, one would not think of surgery when one is "healthy". With Felix already in hospital did make the decision a bit easier.

- If God wants Felix back, He can do it any time - even before or after the operation. This is beyond my control. I can only have faith in Him.

- The medical bill would be phenomenal. I am NOT RICH, but I am willing to pay the premium in exchange for Felix's safety, not just because he is my son, but also for his "medical complications"

 

So all I can do is to PPL - PAY (the bill), PRAY (for the Lord's guidance and support) and LOVE (to give Felix the drive to stay firm and recover).

 

Luckily, with God's guidance, we made the right decision. Inflammation of his gall bladder, bile duct, liver and pancreas was worse than expected. A stent was put in the bile duct to assist in the flow of  bile. Apart from some abdominal fluid and slight fever on the first day, pain was well controlled and his recovery had exceeded expectations (except his vomiting tissue a day after returning home).

 

We would like to give the credit to Dr Vera, Dr. Nicolas, Dr. Karen and Dr. Alice for their professional medical care, support and encouragement. To Xina and Donut, Sandy and Whisky, and Stella, for their relentless love in serving as potential blood donor and finding us blood supply. Last but not least, to Rita and Ruby for their advise and encouragement, to all family members (human and cats) and Auntie Z and R for their prayers and care.

 

12th-14th March 2019 : up to time of operation

 

15th - 22nd March: Recovery Period

 

 

 

 

 

Some after thought:

- As parent, we really need to have a regular saving program, so that in time of need, money would not be a major obstacle to giving our children the best treatment.

- In times of darkness, FAITH, HOPE and LOVE could be major driving force in helping us move forward into the challenge and to accept the consequence in a calm and rational way.



 

 

Wishing all our friends and their family a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous Year of the Pig

 

 

 

 

 

Felix: 請緊記： 每天都要努力練習 「至 發佳」拳就會身體健康!

 

Betty's month

Betty celebrated her 5 year old birthday on 8th January. Its was just a very simple family event.

We wish you Good Health and Great Happiness as you further blossom in life

 

 

 

 

 

Betty took the challenge to participate in the NEFA first cat show in Hong Kong on 12th January 2019. It was a long day, running from 10am to 6.30pm, with 8 competing rings. Being held in a shopping mall, and with a lot or noises. visitors and blasting broadcasts, Betty was indeed very tense and frightened. Nevertheless, she managed to put on a brave face, facing the visitors while in the competition booths. Her performance was decent in the morning, but weakened considerably in the afternoon. Luckily some of the judges were easy on her, and this enabled her to finish most of the competition.

 

 

 

 

Though not with flying colors, we were happy with the result, as Betty had tried and accomplished her goal.

 

 

After this exercise, we are sure that Betty is not born for the ring. She would be happier at home, entertaining occasional visitors as she desire.

 

Betty, my dear, we thank you for your great effort and promise that NO MORE CAT SHOW FOR YOU IN THE FUTURE.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2018 taught us that life is unpredictable

2018 is another year of mixed feelings and most important of all, that life is totally unpredictable. So we should be thankful when each day is a peaceful one, and just keep on forward looking during those dark moment.

 

Goldie's health improved during the year. She is now able to jump onto the bed/sofa easily and those black lumps have shrunk in size. She is now adopting a pretty laid back attitude, but am still playful when being invited to do so.

 

2018 is a year of improvement for Betty. Initially I was pretty worried about her, for she ate well but was very skinny. A visit to the vet, blood test and words of assurance that she is in good condition, saw her steadily gaining weight and her fur thicken. During the year, Betty also demonstrated that she is a very caring and understanding child. When Felix was in critical condition, I cried while in my room. She would come and sit next to me, giving me comfort. When Felix was in hospital, she seemed lost and lonely. Upon discharge, she would be the first one greeting him.

 

Felix started the year with a bang. Showing off his charisma and confidence in cat shows. However, since September and lasted till December, sickness took its toll on him. During this period, life was really tough for we were once closed to loosing him. Vets and nurses pitied him - a 2.5 year old kid, being so sick and they were unable to identify the cause. The whole family together pulled our love for him - hospital visits 2-3 times a day, feed, comfort and encourage him not to give up. He is sure a tough fighter, and is generous in showing his thankfulness to medical staff, making him a star in hospitals. Today, though still on medication and regular vet visits, his daily activities are largely back to normal - playing dash, donkey ride, wrestling with Betty and above all eating well and is slowly regaining some weight.

 

As for myself, my broken right wrist is slowly healing, Its in the 19th week now. Hope that with hard work, I would be able to minimize the handicap over time.

 

We have completed our second charitable drive in November with Goldie and Betty each winning HK$500 coupon from Whiskers and Paws. Following our usual custom, the entire amount had been donated to Camby Chiu and Carmen Lau to help the children under their care.

 

 

 

 

Wishing our bloggers and their family A Joyous, Successful and Healthy 2019!

 

November, a very worrying month

 

Felix's condition was pretty worrying, as his hands and legs got swollen after one day of drip. His condition turned critical on 28-20/11/18 when his blood platelet dropped to zero. All of us were very worried and we decided to seek Specialist care.

Luckily, he finally responded to treatment and is slowly recovering.

Felix is well liked by vets and nurses in both clinic. His mellow character, adorable look, young age gave us all the drive to find the cause and  cure for him.

Felix was very sick.... luckily he recovered well

What being hospitalized was like....

Is he any good in taking medication?

October, a time to be thankful

 

Hello Kitty Dear,

How are you? Take care good care of yourself and grannies.

As you know, you are always welcome to visit us whenever you feel like.

Thank you for keeping a watchful eye on us, especially the 3 kids.

Love you forever!

From all of us at home.

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On 7th October, the children attended the annual Saint Francis Xavier Day church service.
Judging from the video, Betty seems enjoy it the most!