Successful surgery!

https://gofund.me/5237c9196

Dear Maisie's Friends,

I have wonderful news: Maisie had a successful lung lobectomy surgery performed by (the amazingly skilled) Dr. Felix Lackmann at Valera Tierklinik, Berlin!

The procedure went exceptionally well, and I am so humbled and grateful for Dr. Lackmann's expertise and compassionate care. He truly brought hope back into this situation, consulting with me extensively last week and this week. We discussed the options thoroughly, recognizing that the decision needed to be a very careful one with regards to Maisie's best medical options. I also shared with Dr. Lackmann for his knowledge that the funding was partially provided by supporters through this campaign who sacrificed out of compassion, trusting that we would make the best possible decision with the funds. Given Maisie's concerning symptoms and the tumor's location, we determined the surgery was the absolute best option we could attempt for her.

Maisie had developed concerning coughing the week prior to the surgery, as the tumor was believed to be pressing on her cough nerve and also beginning to press on her heart. By removing this tumor, we have provided her with immediate relief for her breathing and to prevent interference with her cardiac function. The results are already clear, as she has not coughed since the surgery!

During the operation, Dr. Lackmann utilized an approach no other clinic had suggested: accessing the tumor between the ribs, which avoids the much riskier, longer, and more painful recovery associated with a sternum split. This less invasive technique is an incredible success and a testament to the expertise at Valera Tierklinik.

Unfortunately, during the operation, a biopsy of her liver was taken due to concern about potential metastasis. This is not yet confirmed, as the biopsy results are pending. I am holding onto hope and praying that the biopsy does not confirm metastasis, and I ask you to keep believing and praying with me. Nonetheless, we have finally successfully removed the major Adenocarcinoma tumor in her lung, which is really a miracle!

Maisie is recovering quickly. When I visited her yesterday, she was bright and alert and already ready to come home, though the vets deemed one more day of hospital monitoring necessary. All of you have been vital in making this surgery possible and bringing hope and light into a bleak situation. Again, I fully recognize that this could be considered a 'small' situation in the scheme of the world's many problems, but please understand that your willingness to bring light into my 'small' situation meant more to me than you will ever know.

Finally, I just want to mention that the overall bill does remain extremely high. I know that I must work hard to continue with my PhD research in animal behavior and welfare in Berlin, however this has put a major strain on my finances. I sincerely ask that you please share this campaign with your networks if you are still willing/able. Nonetheless, the support you all already provided has meant so much to me.

Thank you again, and I look forward to updating you with pictures of Maisie at home soon!

With deep gratitude and best regards,

Elizabeth