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Celebrating Life - Roxie
Myasthenia Gravis and Megaesophagus...More than a Survivor!
Within two weeks of a Megaesophagus diagnosis and feeding Roxie with an elevated bowl, she suffered a 30% weight loss. Near death from starvation and dehydration, the cause of her condition was confirmed as Myasthenia Gravis with a titer of 7.74 NMOL. (> 0.6 NMOL/ L = Positive Serum Titer, diagnostic of acquired Myasthenia Gravis.) With no other option to save her life, a PEG tube was inserted. Tube feedings every four hours to start, a slight weight gain, continued regurgitation from acid reflux and sleepless nights followed. Euthanasia was considered twice. But, since Roxie would not give up, I could not either. Within a few months, I learned of the vertical feeding concept and the Bailey Chair. This management option holds the dog comfortably and safely in a vertical position where a thick/heavy consistency of food can travel through the esophagus via gravity to the stomach in approximately 20-25 minutes. Five short months after her diagnosis and debilitated condition, Roxie had improved so much using her Bailey Chair that she competed in the national agility competition. (While participation was the victory, she claimed two first place finishes!) A transition to complete oral feeding began and eventually, her feeding tube was removed.
Two years post diagnosis, at the age of 12 ˝, Roxie continues to thrive. Whether running an agility course, visiting the convalescent home or listening to school children read, she lives life to the fullest. Her titer is 1.33 NMOL; still a positive Myasthenia Gravis but much reduced from her initial test. She still has Megaesophagus but no signs of aspiration pneumonia. Her weight has returned and she is maintained in a stable condition with medication and the Bailey Chair. She is truly more than a survivor and seeing is believing.
For a more detailed account of Roxie’s miraculous journey, see: www.caninemegaesophagus.org
And to watch her video, see:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=VoKQmrJBXXI.
Debbie McDermott, borderlover@aol.com,
Roxie McDermott, Canaan Dog
In consultation with ACVIM members:
Dr. Michael Wolf, DACVIM, Dr. Jared Galle, DACVIM and Dr. Andrew Issacs, DACVIM Animal Neurology and MRI Center, www.animalneurology.com
Roxie’s Veterinarian:
Dr. John Wilson, DABVP, Wilson Veterinary Hospital, www.wilsonvethospital.com
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