Hello from carol and Romeo ..Maltese, Diabetic, partially blind, Cushings

[Romeo's Mom]

Hello, I was so glad I found this forum. However I thought that I had posted an intro and I guess I did not. I am going a bit crazy with my pain getting worse from Neuropathy and today was the start date for my boy Romeo on Trilostane. He is on one 10 mg morning and evening the same time as his insulin injections. Our Vet cut his insulin in half, from 19 units to 10 units and I am a bit worried about that. Of course a 20 lb dog should never be on such a high dosage of insulin, that is one of only a couple of outward signs that he has Cushings Disease. He is scheduled to go in two weeks for the ATCH test.
I am 67 yrs old and live alone, my social security is my only income and it is very low so I am worried about the blood tests, praying they won't come too often.
Romeo adopted me when he was three months old and three pounds, the cutest baby, just melted my heart. We have had many good years walking all over San Francisco, so many people know Romeo. When I got to where I could not walk I was so afraid I would have to give him up. I was in such a panic. Just about then my doctor sent an agency to check on me as I was so overwhelmed and they applied to the county to get in home support for me. They do not pay for anyone to walk or care for Romeo but she gladly does it, she loves him so much. What a gift from heaven.
I am rambling, I do that when I am afraid. I have a friend who keeps sending me negative emails such as the Vet's don't know hardly anything about prescribing Trilostane as it is so new...and on and on.
Romeo is sleeping and having bad dreams, he does that sometimes.
Looking forward to getting to know you.
carol :p

[BestBuddy]

Hi Carol and welcome to you and Romeo.

How long has Romeo been diabetic. 19 units of insulin is a lot for his size so it is smart to reduce now that you have started the trilostane.

My Buddy was also diabetic when he got the diagnosis of cushings and his symptoms were only the increasing insulin needs and erratic BG readings and hair thinning to the point of bald patches. After a few days (some take weeks) his insulin needs dropped dramatically, about 40% I think from memory of what he had been getting those months before.

What sort of insulin are you using and do you keep a 12 hour food injection schedule? What are you feeding and do you do any BG testing at home because if not then it is a much cheaper way of making sure you are giving enough insulin without too much.

Jenny

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Carol and welcome to you and Romeo,

You can tell your friend that, yes, Trilo is new compared to Lysodren and some other Cushing's treatments and that we ALL have a lot to learn about it. However, you may also tell them that you have now found an exceptional group of folks who have been dealing with Trilo and many other Cushing's issues for years, and that you and Romeo are in GREAT hands. You might also let them know that the key to treating Cushing's, regardless of the drug, is the parent...and it is clear that you are a wonderful mom to Romeo; otherwise you wouldn't have gone searching to find help for him. Combine your love for Romeo, our extensive experiences plus unparalleled support, and a vet who will listen to your concerns...and Romeo has a winning team behind him.

Being afraid is only natural when hearing that your baby has a condition like Cushing's. Honey, I was a total basket-case when my Squirt was first diagnosed! :eek: A dear friend here told me that I reminded her of a lady who had just stuck her finger in a light socket - hair wild and standing on end....she kindly forgot to mention the bulging eyes and flying slobber! :eek::o But these gentle folks took me by the hand and led me through the dark - sharing, teaching, caring, most of all, caring.

You and Romeo will not have to take another step alone on this journey. We will be with you all the way. Never hesitate to reach out, to ask questions, to express your fears, to tell a funny on Romeo or yourself, or just to share your day.

It is really wonderful that your help has fallen for Romeo and that she cares for him when you can't. That has to be a big load off your shoulders. Having Neuropathy myself, tho still in the earlier stages, I understand your pain and the difficulties you must endure, including trying to live on a fixed income when so many things in life are not "fixed". My Squirt brings me comfort and joy when nothing else can and I am sure the same is true for you and Romeo. ;)

Remember, we are here for you anytime. We are a family here and I am so glad that you and Romeo have decided to join us.

Keep your chin up!
Hugs,
Leslie and the girls - always