FLORA'S FIP STORY
I am so happy, proud and super thankful to finally announce that my sweet baby Flora has Graduated! Below you will see a little story about her journey.
Flora was diagnosed with FIP in early March of this year. I could not believe what the doctor 57was telling me. I had no idea about this virus! A mutation of Coronavirus! A fatal virus that will most likely kill my baby if left untreated. After hearing that news I was then told that there is no approved treatment in Canada. My heart melted right then and there and I felt hopeless.
Flora came into my life exactly at the right time, along with her sister Angel. As the passionate cat lover I am, my heart always welcomed feline companions into my life. I had just lost my cat Sam after spending 17 wonderful years with him. Shortly after, I found Flora and her sister online. I immediately messaged and begged the owner to let me have both the kittens. I wanted them to stay together but one was already taken for. After begging and pleading she finally decided to let me have both of them. They were inseparable since day one.
Flora was five months old when I suddenly saw a drastic change in her behavior and well being. All of a sudden, she had no energy, she was not able to balance on her feet very well and her eyes were almost closed shut. She was not playful and she had a decreased appetite. I knew something bad was wrong with her. I could see it in her eyes. I immediately called my veterinary hospital and they insisted I go straight to the VSC clinic. Flora was seen right away and some tests were taken. That is when Flora’s journey started.
Although the test for FIP was negative, she was definitely experiencing all the symptoms of Dry FIP Neuro, so it was strongly recommended that I proceed with treatment as soon as possible. A pink sticky note later she was in the hands of some really amazing people. She was given the chance to fight for her life and through the process hopefully raise some awareness of FIP.
Just with the tip of my finger, through an online facebook group FIP Warriors Canada was there to help and assist me with anything I needed. They informed me on all the treatments and research that was available to me. The outpouring of kindness touched me to the core, renewing my faith in humanity. I found peace in the presence of a network of compassionate individuals who understood the profound bond I shared with Flora and Angel. With their unwavering support, I embarked on a journey filled with unwavering determination and renewed hope. Without The Aggie Foundation Flora would not be with me today. I turned to the power of community. The response was nothing short of extraordinary. People, complete strangers united by their love for animals, extended their guidance, empathy, and even financial assistance to help Flora regain her health.
Just a few days of treatment Flora started to flourish and be the playful kitty she always was. The treatment was working. Flora started off her treatment by taking injections every night for 60 days. Also, while being injected she had to take Prednisone for the first week or so to take the swelling off her brain. And also every night a few hours before her injection she would have to take Gabapentin to reduce the pain and make her feel calm for the needle. Now, for the next 38 days or so she will only take tablet form for her treatment and no other medication. She has also been getting blood work tested every four weeks white being treated and all results so far are remarkable.
I know she is a little warrior and she has come so far already and she is going to make us all proud. I am forever thankful for this treatment and everyone who has helped me along the way.
Flora is now able to grow into the strong healthy cat she is supposed to be. She is the sweetest little darling who loves to cuddle, kiss, purr and play all day long. I cannot believe she has come this far already and she is doing so well. During the beginning of her treatment the feelings and emotions were very challenging for me. After a while and seeing how science and medicine were helping Flora my feelings and emotions started to become stronger, I cannot thank FIP Warriors and Monica enough for the enormous amount of support for Flora.