Update on CJ

The last word we got from our neurologist was to watch for any changes in his clinical signs. CJ started to 'knuckle' and cross his back left leg/foot a lot. After asking the neurologist if this was something to be concerned about and not getting any answer I decided to pursue this issue further. Keep in mind, we hadn't been given any diagnosis based on positive test results up to this point.

Feeling frustrated with the lack of response and answers I decided to begin exploring other doctors. With the help of a good friend that suggested a clinic in Arizona and the Washington State University Veterinary College Hospital - we got some answers.

The clinic in Arizona was not able to give us much information, but they did mention there were several fungal infections that are specific to AZ. The neurologist from WA State Univ. reviewed all of CJ's records and one of her first questions was to ask if CJ had been down South. Since he was raised in Arizona (and she recently had a similar case that resulted in a fungal infection) she quickly suggested we have his blood tested for fungi.

The results are in - he tested positive for the fungus that causes Valley Fever. Since VF is not in his lungs or respiratory system, this indicates he has disseminated VF. It's a tough disease to get rid of, as with any fungal infection. It's even tougher to defeat since it is in his spine. The good news is, we more than likely can treat this with medications even if he does have to be on them for the rest of his life. The medications can be tough on the organs, specifically liver, so please keep us in your thoughts as we step into this next stage of the 'healing CJ' journey.

Because of the information we had been given early on and the costs involved, we had considered the option of making him comfortable until he couldn't go on any longer and/or having to put him to sleep. We sure are relieved we didn't choose either of those options.

I cannot stress enough that advocating is important when it comes to our pets; it's not just for human medicine. I feel strongly that we now have a positive test result, and finally some answers, because I started to stomp my feet and demand more. I moved on when I didn't feel our current resource was working for us. Hopefully our experience will help save the life of some other beloved pet down the road.

Thank you to all of our friends and family for the support and prayers! We appreciate you!!!