Surgery Day is Approaching...

Just when you think that everything is running smoothly, there's always that bump to throw things a bit off.  We are starting to prepare for surgery, so last Wednesday we went to Bethel Mill for blood work and x-rays.  Dr Lewis had also asked for a blood type, as they are taking every precaution.

Lentil's CBC/Chem came back with elevated liver values and his ammonia level is extremely high (311)...so now we know poor lentil may also have a liver shunt, making the risk of anesthesia even higher.  We went to UPenn on Thursday to do a bile acid test, which tests the function of the liver.  That test was also elevated, so they are pretty positive now that a shunt is present.  I feel as though walls are just caving in on me. 

Currently, we are working on a new game plan...although we are still sticking to the May 28th surgery day...however, if they are able to find the shunt on ultrasound, Bean may have surgery to correct that on the 28th rather than the palate.  

I refuse to let this get me down....and I hope all of you will continue to stay strong for him- he needs it- now more than ever!  Love goes a long way, and Lentil is a trooper.  He is full of life (as you know) and he is showing no clinical signs, which is wonderful news!   

I'm sorry that I didn't get to making this announcement sooner, but I needed a bit of time to collect my thoughts and take all of this in.  So now, the countdown to surgery day begins!  We will continue to celebrate each day we have, and we look forward to a speedy recovery for our boy.....we have lots of people to meet when he gets better!!!  

Thank you, again, to all of you for all of the love and support.  It breaks my heart that I physically can't keep up with all of the messages I have on facebook (I'm about 1500 messages behind) and the "thank-you's" that I would like to personally send.  Please know that I am so grateful...xoxoxo  I love you guys!

Today is the best day EVER!

What an amazing way to start off Mother's Day!  I couldn't be happier.  I feel like I was just granted my only wish I could ever have in this world....my little Lentil.  I am so thankful to FBRN for making this possible- and so appreciative of the amount of love and support we are getting from everyone seeing the post!  It makes me feel so good to know that I am trusted to care for him- forever.  It's been a long, hard road for us, and I would never change a second of it.  Now I can be 100% sure that he can and will complete his mission in life.  As his Mother, I will see him through every step of the way.  I don't feel as though he is "my" dog, he is the world's dog...and under my care, it will stay that way.  Now our life is really going to begin!

I have been so scared about his surgery day coming up.  I am petrified of him going under anesthesia and having an even higher risk of aspiration.  It was such a heavy load on my heart thinking that he would undergo surgery without ever having an official "Mom", but now he doesn't have to!  Even though I would be by his side regardless, I can now be there- as his true Mother....and that's all I've ever wanted for him.

This is just the beginning.

Lentil Fest was a huge success!  I can't even begin to properly thank everyone for the hard work that was put into the planning, and also the incredible amount of support throughout the weekend.  It was so great to see so many people pull together to create something so successful for 3 very deserving nonprofits!  A huge thank you to Kate Connor for putting together a raffle night that raised $2234!!  Many, Many thanks goes out to the venues- North Bowl, the Blockley, The Fire and the Bands who donated all of their time/talents to help our cause.  Derek Dorsey, for organizing the shows, which brought in another $610 at the doors!  Dan Murphy from www.mandurphy.com,, who photographed our raffle night...thank you for always being there for us (pics coming soon).  To all of the artists who donated to our raffle and auction night- thank you- you made it happen!  Our online auction through Lentil's page raised $3670....so thank you to all who kept that bidding going!!!  All of the above funds that are listed, along with the money from the Lentil shirts that were donated by FBRN, each organization will be receiving a check of a minimum $2523!!!  The table we had for CCAkids at our market day, brought in an additional $433 for the children- selling baked goods donated by my Mom and Lentil "Support Ribbons" created/donated by Daniel Pfeiffer.  We had countless volunteers from STAR and FBRN running these tables and making the weekend happen...we couldn't have done it without all of you!  This is so exciting!!  PLUS- at the end of the month- we will have more checks going out from our online donation link!!  I will keep everyone posted...and smiling ear to ear all along!  Everyone who helped and supported this cause should give themselves a huge pat on the back!  This happened because of all of us!  I feel like I could write a novel just saying "THANK YOU"!  We are in this together- and we made it happen!  I love you guys!

12wks old...and FINALLY consult day has arrived!

It seems like forever ago that we made this consult appointment...and now- finally it has arrived!   The vets at UPenn are amazing to work with.  They are in agreement with us that my ONLY concern is correcting what needs to be done for his health....cosmetic isn't an issue for me.

Lentil's surgery is tentatively scheduled for May 28th!!!  They explained that he will probably spend the night after surgery, but they are very hopeful that everything will run smoothly.  It's so nice to have such confident doctors on your side!   Now my only question is if they will let ME also spend the night :) Bean and I have never been apart....and I'm surely not above sleeping in a kennel to be with him! 

We've had such an eventful last 2 days!- Sunday started  by Lentil and I joining a group of children at Salon L'Etoile in Jenkintown.  CHOP (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) brought these children and their families together to let them have a day of beauty which was donated by the salon.  It was absolutely incredible- the kids were all so amazing!  I have never been in a place and surrounded by so much strength!  Bean had a blast, and I think the children really enjoyed him....they can relate to him and the road he has ahead better than any of us!  They were so sweet- the kids were helping ME!  Talking about their surgeries and experiences, and letting me know that we will be just fine! 

It's because of these children that I was able to calmly listen to the doctor today and not worry so much!  They gave us/continue to give us the strength to get through this!  Lentil even was offered some dry kibble!  He's a bit confused by it, but he was able to swallow some pieces safely!  So now a new adventure.... offering more and more each day and hopefully rotating between tube/kibble.  This is another huge milestone, and I'm so excited!  I promise to keep everyone posted on the progress!  I'm happy to say that the perfect size kibble turned out to be Orijen Red Meat!  So thank you, Champion Pet foods, for making a kibble that my baby can tolerate! 

Thank you again for all of the support!  We are all in this adventure together!  Now full speed ahead to Lentil Fest!!!  xoxo

10 weeks...and Best Birthday surprise ever!

What an awesome Birthday surprise!  I'm so excited to announce that, as of right now, Lentil has reached his  fundraising goal and the cost of all of his surgeries is covered!!  It's because of your generosity, that this little puppy will be receiving the best of care!  On behalf of FBRN, I just wanted to say "Thank you- with all of my heart."  It's just simply amazing!

Moving forward...as it seems that's exactly was Lentil was placed into this world to do- we are collecting for other animals in need through FBRN (www.frenchbulldogrescue.org), STAR (www.streettails.org) and also my wonderful new friends at www.ccakids.org who could use your support for all of the beautiful children and families they are helping!  Please take a moment and check out all of these incredible organizations, as this is no longer about just one puppy in need...it's about making a difference in the lives of many!  Be sure to tell them Lentil sent you!  <3

To help to kick off this awesome partnership- my friends here in Philly have been working their tails off to prepare for Lentil Fest!!  It's going to be 4 days of fun!  We are starting off by having a concert at the Blockley with Tommy Conwell on May 2, then a raffle/auction at North Bowl 7-10pm on May 3rd!  May 4th, FBRN and STAR are hosting an Adoption Event on Liberties Walk, in front of Chic Petique from 12-4, and then 2 more concerts at The Fire on Sat with Kuf Knotz and Sun night with The Lawsuits!  Woohoo!!  This is gonna be an amazing event- and all proceeds are going to be split between all 3 organizations!!  Stay tuned for flyers and more detailed info!!

I'm just so overwhelmed by the love and support that we are receiving!  I couldn't have asked for anything more...and it's just incredible to be able to take it to the next level.  All of this positive energy is exactly what Lentil needs to be surrounded by as we get closer and closer to his surgery.  It's amazing the healing power that love has :)

FAQ- I hope this helps!

I can't believe it's been almost 3 weeks since I've had a chance to sit down and write!

I've been trying so hard to catch up on emails, etc...and I think I have to just realize that it's impossible....I'm sorry :(  In order to try to answer as many questions as possible- at once- I decided to take this moment to attempt to create a frequently asked questions post....I hope it helps!

 Here's the biggie...."When will Lentil have his surgery?"
      Well....the second that I know- you will too!  Here is the plan as of right now.....We are scheduled for a surgery consult on April 29th at University of Pennsylvania.  The Doctors are waiting to watch him grow to figure out the optimal time to complete the surgery.  As of this moment (and it can change by the consult), they are thinking of beginning the procedures in May/June.  I honestly couldn't have asked for a more dedicated/excited team of doctors.  The goal of the surgery will be to create a soft tissue separation between the oral and nasal cavities.  We are all in agreement that we are only doing necessary surgeries to allow him to function normally...any cosmetic things will be left alone.  Being that he is a bulldog, and as a breed, bulldogs are at higher risk of aspiration to begin with- we are doing all we can to put him "under" as little as possible.
     I don't mean to seem vague about the surgery question, but I honestly don't know all of the answers yet...the Doctors feel as though he will have multiple, but until we start, there isn't a definitive answer as to how many.  Once the 29th rolls around, you guys will have an update via here or on facebook by early evening!  I'm aware that we are all in this together- and I will keep everyone up to date!

"Can I meet Lentil?"
     Since Lentil is still a baby...he isn't up to date on his vaccines yet.  He has received his first booster and his Bordetella, but we still have a few more boosters to go!  We are trying be as cautious as possible because of his medical condition.  Have no fear- in time, this baby will meet all of his family!  We just have to do it the right way!

"Where can I send Lentil a package to?"
     You guys are all so sweet and generous!  Lentil will never "go without"- that's for sure!!  Please know, that it isn't necessary to send anything....your love and support is all we need!  The fact that I see numerous comments everyday about the smiles he puts on everyone's face is the best gift ever!  One puppy does not need hundreds of toys...and although I do let him play with/enjoy each gift he gets, I want you to know that we are also sharing these toys with other animals in need!  Every dog deserves to have a fun day!  Any mail can be sent to Lentil c/o Street Tails Animal Rescue 1030 N 2nd Street Unit 401 Phila, Pa 19123.  There are many dogs that need the help at FBRN and STAR...and we are also working to raise awareness and support for CCAkids.org!  One puppy doesn't need the world...but one puppy can surely work to save it! 

"When can I adopt him?"
     This one puts a knife straight through my heart.  Yes, I am his foster mom.  French Bulldog Rescue Network entrusted me with a job to do my best in caring for a puppy and getting him to the point of/seeing him through his surgeries.  That is what I am doing.  I've given him my everything in hopes that we will get to where he needs to be!  FBRN is a wonderful group, and they will take the necessary steps on his adoption when the time comes.....but we still have a long road ahead!!  What we need right now is the love and support to see him through to that point.  Just because he is a rescue....it doesn't mean that we haven't sought out the best possible care for this pup!  

I hope that this helps! Again, thank you for all of the love and support!!  We couldn't have asked for a better group of awesome friends.  <3

7 weeks! what a blessing!!

I'm so happy to say that I turned 7wks old today!!  I weighed in this morning at 3lb 5.4oz!  That's almost a full 3lbs more than when I was born!!  (I was only 5.78oz when Foster Mom took me into her care). 

I have a consult scheduled at University of Pennsylvania on April 29th.  Dr John Lewis is so nice....and Foster Mom told me that he is an awesome Doctor!  He has tons of experience with correcting animals who were born just like me!  We are so grateful to have him on our side.  He is confident and determined to make me healthy....just like Foster Mom!  She says that he is gonna be great to add to our team! 

I still can't get over this attention that I'm getting!  I'm just so grateful to all of you.  Your generosity and support has been unmatched by anything that Foster Mom has ever seen....it's just incredible.  I love that I am able to make so many people (from all over the world) come together.....and smile!!  The love is amazing. 

Foster Mom has been working around the clock with my feedings and care- so she wanted to apologize that her emails/thank you letters have gotten backed up!  We are just so grateful and want all of you to know that!  We appreciate each and every one of you...and all of your comments/emails/kind words.  Foster Mom doesn't ever want any of you to feel as though you aren't a part of our family.  All of this love and support is a huge part in what is bringing so much good energy to my environment and helping me to succeed! 

So this week- I dedicate my Birthday wishes to all of you!!  thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!!!  xoxoxox  I feel that even though I have so many odds against me....I am the luckiest puppy in the world!

6 weeks of feeling awesome!!!

Wow.  6 weeks.  If I do the math, I have now tube fed this baby about 396 times!  It's been a ton of work, and a massive amount of stress....but I wouldn't trade it for the world- any of it.  It still blows my mind that it seems as if the tiny puppy has taken over the internet!  Buzzfeed?!  Huffington Post?!  Now NY Daily News?!!  For years, I've been doing rescue work, and doing all I can to help special needs animals...and now, this tiny Bean comes into my life, and is getting more press in his 6wks on Earth that I have in my lifetime!  Good for him.  He deserves it.  He deserves all of the love and support that is being brought upon him.  That is...as long as people remember the reason we are here.  We are dog rescue.  We are the people who open our hearts to offer a chance to these "unwanted" babies.  One animal at a time...we attempt to make a difference.

I have always looked at Lentil and wondered the reason that he is here.  I (personally) believe that every being is here to make some sort of an impact, or a difference in the world....we all have a purpose.  I'm not sure that I know yet what Lentil's purpose will be in the future, but one of the most beautiful things that seems to be unfolding is his connection to people that are facing the same issue that he has!  I've gotten the most beautiful emails from mothers, who's children were born with cleft palates. The stories of their fights, their heart aches and their celebrations just amaze me.  One woman, Alison, wrote that her daughter Rachael and her have been following our story.  She told me that she's shared him on Children's Craniofacial Association or CCAkids. Her email stated "Rachael and I have chatted about how much a puppy or baby with a cleft or other facial difference is viewed as adorable but when the child gets older and is dealing with peers - they are often made fun of and viewed as 'not so cute anymore'."  The truth behind that statement went straight through my heart.  Maybe THIS is part of Lentil's purpose?!  Perhaps he is meant to help to break down this barrier of how horrific people can act towards one another!  Only time will tell....but I can assure you....I will be sure that Lentil finds his way :)

This is the beauty of Lentil...and the beauty of rescue and humanity :)