Saturday- A Little Personal – Lucy and Twiggy Have a Tough Talk

Please be aware this post is about a serious subject.

Hello, friends of Lucy and Twiggy. We have all enjoyed the adventures of these two, and in some ways, we have become family interacting with their experiences. It is fitting for you to know that Lucy has been diagnosed with inoperable cancer. There is nothing that can be done but to keep her comfortable. She is on medication that keeps her pain-free and eating and drinking normally. It is a matter of time, now unknown, before we will have to let her go. We feel that to have Lucy disappear and then explain after the fact would not be faithful to the time you have invested in her stories. Although this information is hard to communicate, I think we owe you transparency regarding her condition. The stories will continue for as long as possible, and we won’t be mentioning cancer again. Lucy is talking to Twiggy.

“So what did the doctor say?”

“She said I have inoperable cancer, Little One.”

“What does inoperable mean?”

“Well, it means they can’t fix it.”

“If they can’t fix it, what’s going to happen?”

“It means I’m going to be taking a trip.”

“Trip? What kind of trip?”

“I’m going to go and find Bailey over the Rainbow Bridge.”

“I don’t think I understand. When will you be back?”

“Well, Little One, I won’t be back if I find Bailey.”

“Won’t be back? I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

“It is the way life is, though. There is a circle that we all move in.”

“If it’s a circle, can I go with you?”

“No, that’s not how it works. You have a full life ahead of you. Besides, mom and dad will need your help.”

“Please let me go with you, Lucy.”

“Twiggy. You have your job to do here. Don’t worry when it is your time. I’ll be waiting for you.”

“Promise?”

“You have my promise, Little One. Now let’s get mom to give us a treat.”

“I love you, Lucy.”

“I love you, Little One.”

144 comments

  1. Gwen M. Plano's avatar

    Very tender exchange, John. I’m so sorry for all of you. Saying goodbye to 4-legged family members is heartbreaking, as you and Molly know so well. ❤️

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes we do, Gwen. Thank you.

      Liked by 1 person

  2. shoreacres's avatar

    A measure of how invested we’ve all become in this pair is the tears that came to my eyes reading this. Here’s hoping that ‘sooner or later’ is much, much later, and that the days you have left with Lucy are good ones.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Linda. We share your hope. Each day is a blessing.

      Liked by 2 people

  3. Chris The Story Reading Ape's avatar

    We’ll miss Lucy’s words of wisdom when the time comes, John, but hopefully she’ll keep giving them for some time still ❤️

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      My hope too, Chris. Thank you.

      Liked by 2 people

  4. Jill Weatherholt's avatar

    Thank you for sharing with us, John. I’m so sorry. Lucy explained the situation to Twiggy beautifully. xo

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Jill. A tough share for sure. XO

      Liked by 2 people

  5. Dan Antion's avatar

    I am sorry for all of you, John. I fell in love with Lucy from the days of the Lucy and Baily show. She is special and she will be missed. I know how hard this is. Please give her a hug from us.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I will do that , Dan. Thank you for your kind words.

      Liked by 2 people

  6. GP's avatar

    A beautifully worded exchange, John, but it still didn’t stop me from tearing up. God love her!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, GP. She has had a wonderful life and we all have been blessed.

      Liked by 3 people

  7. Charles Yallowitz's avatar

    Sorry for the news. Positive thoughts for all of you.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Charles. We are keeping the positive energy flowing here.

      Liked by 1 person

  8. Annette Rochelle Aben's avatar

    Oh, John! I am sending love and light to all of you!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Annette. It helps a lot.

      Liked by 2 people

  9. Writer Lori's avatar

    Oh John, I am so, so sorry. Having just said goodbye to my precious Lola in early November, I feel your pain at this impending loss so deeply. Holding you all so close to my heart…

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Lori. I’m so sorry for your loss. Hugs to you.

      Liked by 2 people

  10. Joan Hall's avatar

    I have tears in my eyes as I type this. I am so sorry and please know you, your family, and Twiggy will be in my prayers.

    The exchange between Lucy and Twiggy is beautiful.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Joan. We have been blessed to have Lucy for as long as we have. She has given us so much and we are very grateful.

      Liked by 1 person

  11. coldhandboyack's avatar

    I’m sad to learn this, John. They become such huge parts of our lives.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      They do, Craig. They bring such joy and that is the part we should remember. Thank you.

      Liked by 1 person

  12. Liz Gauffreau's avatar

    I am so sorry, John. It’s some comfort to know that the vet is giving Lucy medication to keep her from suffering. I’ve become very fond of Lucy; I’ll miss her when the time comes. Thank you for telling us what is happening. It must have been very difficult for you.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      It was difficult. Liz but I knew it had to be done. We all invest our hearts in stories and situations and to me that investment by the community needed to be honored. Thank you.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Liz Gauffreau's avatar

        You’re welcome, John.

        Liked by 1 person

  13. quiall's avatar

    I am smiling through my tears. I will cherish every moment we get to share, until they are no more.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Pam. You have said what I needed to hear. That is my hope.

      Liked by 1 person

  14. John Hric's avatar

    I hope you are able to keep Lucy comfortable. So now that Twiggy knows has anyone warned the puma ?

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I think Twiggy will bark the puma to St. Louis. Thanks, John.

      Liked by 1 person

  15. Keith Edgar Channing's avatar

    My sympathies, John. On a positive note, can you imagine the reaction when Lucy and Trevor get together?

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I would love to be a fly on the wall. Thanks for the smile, Keith.

      Liked by 1 person

  16. Tom's avatar

    John,
    Very sorry to hear this news.
    I always got a chuckle from both dogs in the backyard on their discoveries, etc.
    Hopefully she will be with us for a long time.
    Prayers to you and Molly
    Tom

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Tom. We’ll enjoy what time we have left. Your prayers are welcome for sure.

      Like

  17. circadianreflections's avatar

    I’m so, so, sorry to hear this, John. I hope she’s comfortable and with us for sometime to come.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I hope so too, Deborah. Thank you.

      Liked by 1 person

  18. T. W. Dittmer's avatar

    Sad to hear this, John. 😦 I’ve experienced this several times, and it caused a lot of pain, even though I know it’s part of the circle of life. Deep condolences to you and yours. 😦

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Tim. We and Lucy have more joy than pain so in the end we all are blessed.

      Liked by 1 person

  19. Fictionophile's avatar

    Sorry to hear this devastating news John. 😢

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Lynne. This is the sad part of life for sure.

      Like

  20. Harmony Kent's avatar

    Thinking of you all, John, and sending love and hugs 💙💙💙

    Liked by 3 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Harmony. Our time together has been wonderful and the good memories will sustain us. I appreciate your love and hugs.

      Liked by 1 person

  21. Teagan Riordain Geneviene's avatar

    I’m so sorry to hear this, John. You and your wife have been through so much with the dogs and cats. Sending love and hugs.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Teagan. We have been blessed with wonderful years with our pets. It is hard to say goodbye but while they are here we love them unconditionally. Our memories of them always help us through the rough parts. Hugs

      Liked by 1 person

  22. willowdot21's avatar

    Oh! John this is so sad….. Bless it really hurts dosen’t it.. Our old girl Ruby is on the same path too she’s thirteen now . Sending love and support 💜💜💜

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Willow. Lucy is fourteen which is ancient for a boxer. We have been blessed with her good health all these years. Hugs to Ruby.

      Like

      1. willowdot21's avatar

        Thank you John Ruby is thirteen, a good age for a working Lab, she was a guide dog for a blind lady. I believe you call them assistance dogs. Ruby had a rare cancer last year in her leg and recovered but now riddled with arthritis she is finding things challenging. They are our babes aren’t they 💜💜💜

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          They are. Lucy is a rescue and was found wandering the streets and had been hit by a car. She was two then and has been with us for 12 wonderful years.

          Like

        2. willowdot21's avatar

          She has been a little angel to you really ☺️☺️

          Liked by 1 person

        3. John W. Howell's avatar

          Yes she has. Thanks, Willow.

          Like

  23. Maggie's avatar

    Oh, John, this is such sad news to read. I know it is so hard for all of you. Enjoy the time that remains and I wish comfort and love for Lucy until you must let her go. Sending you all so much love and caring.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      We appreciate your message, Maggie. We will enjoy what time we have left. Thank you.

      Liked by 1 person

  24. Becky Ross Michael's avatar

    I’m so sorry to read this sad news, John. I’ll be thinking about all of you!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Becky. We appreciate that kindness.

      Liked by 1 person

  25. kethuprofumo's avatar

    Oh, dear John! I’m so sorry to leatn about her diagnosis. Anyway, let’s enjoy these precious moments left. And hope that her soul will return back again afterwards. Nothing ends, it’s just a new turn of existances.🙂🍤🍤🍤🍻

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I believe the same about new turn of existences. Thank you for the uplifting message, Dear Maria. We will enjoy the time we have left. 🥂🍰

      Like

      1. kethuprofumo's avatar

        All for you, my dear friend John no matter the fact that no word can express or relieve this sort of pain.🙂🍤🍤🍤🍻

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          So true, Maria. But your thoughts do help. Thank you.

          Liked by 1 person

        2. kethuprofumo's avatar

          💖💖💖 I’m glad, dear John! That’s great! 🙂

          Liked by 1 person

        3. John W. Howell's avatar

          I think so. 🤗

          Liked by 1 person

        4. kethuprofumo's avatar

          I must have told you that Gregory also had a cancer but we could not imagine how to cure him & how to help. It was horrible!

          Liked by 1 person

        5. John W. Howell's avatar

          It gives one a helpless feeling. (which we humans find very uncomfortable)

          Liked by 1 person

  26. Darlene's avatar

    This is heartbreaking news. My heart goes out to you and the family. Enjoy the time you have left with your sweet Lucy. ❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you Darlene. We intend to do that for sure. We appreciate your message.

      Liked by 1 person

  27. Author Jan Sikes's avatar

    Oh, John, this post breaks my heart. Thank you for telling us. We can all send loving vibes to Lucy. I pray that whatever time she has left is filled with joy and love!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      We will do our best to make sure her last days are filled with contentment. Thank you, Jan.

      Liked by 1 person

  28. Unknown's avatar
    Anonymous · ·

    Forgive me John. I can’t say anything other than, this just killed me. I’m all undone.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I can understand that feeling. Thank you for expressing it.

      Like

    2. John W. Howell's avatar

      I can understand. It kills me too.

      Like

  29. Dale's avatar

    Oh my dear John. I am having trouble typing this as the screen is all blurry. I can only thank you from the bottom of my heart for the heads up so that we can wish a sweet and painless time for Lucy (and Twiggy and you and The Producer) as she walks towards that Rainbow Bridge. Sending you all my love and shall, even more, cherish what you share from these two that we have grown to love (as we did Bailey).

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you , Dale. I think we all would wish these lovely souls like Lucy and Zeke could stay with us forever but that isn’t how life works.Thanks for your tender words.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Dale's avatar

        Yeah, you’re right. We do wish. But then, I guess that’s what makes them so special – knowing that despite this, they are all the more precious to us.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Good point , Dale. Thank you.

          Liked by 1 person

        2. Dale's avatar

          I touch my glass to yours. 🍻

          Liked by 1 person

  30. D.L. Finn, Author's avatar
    D.L. Finn, Author · ·

    Breaks my heart reading this. Sending hugs to you and Lucy.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Denise. I know you have been in this spot before so we appreciate your hugs.

      Like

  31. Dan C's avatar

    Sorry to hear about Lucy. Take comfort in The Rainbow Bridge.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I do, Dan. Thank you.

      Like

  32. Natalie Ducey's avatar

    Oh my, John… I’m so sorry. Our pets are such gifts, little beings of neverending love and wonder. My heart goes out to you and your family. We had to say goodbye to our little Bella in September. When the time comes, she, as Bailey, will greet Lucy with abundant love. It is my hope that you have many blessed and pain-free days together until that time comes. Much love and hugs to all.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Natalie. We will do our best to make sure Lucy continues to live her life. I’m sorry for your loss of Bella and the thought of all our pets having a huge playground brings a smile.

      Liked by 1 person

  33. Debbie's avatar

    NOOO!!! Oh, John, I’m typing this through tears. Though I’ve never met Lucy, I feel like I know her. Her interactions with Twiggy (and Bailey before) have always captivated me, and it’s impossible not to fall in love with her sweet face. I know you’re heart-broken over this news, my friend, but I trust Lucy will let you know when it’s time for her trip. I’ve always said I’d rather have one less day with a pup than force them to stay with me longer…in pain. Thank you for explaining all this — I know it’s hard, but you’re right, harder for her to just disappear. Hugs to all of you!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      We are heartbroken but will not compromise Lucy’s care for the sake of our emotions. In some way not telling everyone about her condition seemed disrespectful. It would be like she was just being used as a prop and I can’t have that. We had 12 wonderful years with her and lots of memories. Thank you for your helpful words, Debbie.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Debbie's avatar

        I’ll say a prayer for all of you, my friend.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. John W. Howell's avatar

          Thank you, Debbie.

          Liked by 1 person

  34. J-Dub's avatar

    Oh John. So very sorry. Sweet Lucy ❤️‍🩹

    Liked by 1 person

  35. Willow Croft's avatar

    Oh no, Lucy…

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Yes, I agree Willow. Oh No.

      Liked by 1 person

  36. C.E.Robinson's avatar

    OMG, John. Tears in my eyes reading this. Lucy & Twiggy are a favorite part of your family. So sorry to know about Lucy’s cancer. I’d actually hope that dogs communicate the way Lucy & Twiggy did. Including Bailey was important. I know dogs sense illness and miss each other to the point of giving up themselves when one crosses the Rainbow Bridge. It happened to my two dogs, within 3 days after the first one died, the second one gave up. Well, within two weeks, we had a new family of dogs, 5 month old Border Aussie siblings. Still, we’ll miss our little dogs forever. 🧡🐶🐶🧡 Christine

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      You will aways miss those who have gone, but the joy of the newest helps you remember the best parts of those you miss. Thank you for the kind words, Christine.

      Liked by 1 person

  37. The Coastal Crone's avatar

    We are all tearing up, John, as we have become attached to these two. I am so sorry to hear this. Such a sweet exchange between them. In the end “I love you” says it all. I remember Bailey – glad Lucy will have a friend over the Rainbow. Twiggy will sense something, I think.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      I think you are right, Jo.Twiggy checks Lucy over quite a lot now. I think she knows. We will keep Lucy comfortable until she is ready. Thanks for the tender feelings.

      Like

  38. Pit's avatar

    I’m sorry to hear these sad news, John, and my feelings and thoughts are with you. I know from my own experience how hard it is to have to let a four-legged friend go. Thanks for letting me know before the unevitable happens. I wish all the best for Lucy for as long as possible. I know you’ll make her comfortable as long as possible and then caringly guide her to the rainbow bridge and across.
    All the best,
    Pit

    Like

  39. walkingoffthechessboard's avatar

    Sad doesn’t describe it well enough for me, John. Just grateful we all have had the joy in being able to walk alongside her, albeit at a distance.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you for the touching comment, Bruce. She’ll be with us for a while but I don’t know for how long. As long as she is comfortable I’ll take each day as a blessing.

      Liked by 1 person

  40. petespringer's avatar
    petespringerauthor · ·

    I feel so bad for all of you, having been through this a couple of times with dogs we’ve owned. It’s hard each time, and yet I’ll do it again. As one of my best friends said to me once, “Of course, I’m going to be sad. My dog gave me ten of the best years.”

    Wishing you and your wife and Twiggy many happy memories.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Pete. The good memories are worth the pain for sure.

      Liked by 1 person

  41. Shagun's avatar

    Though an inevitable journey, it’s the hardest one gets to undertake ! And you’ve given such beautiful words to the silent exchange between Lucy & Twiggy, John! Hoping her strength & your affection continue to hold fast till the rainbow ends! Wishing healing energy to you all !

    Like

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you for your good wishes, Shagun. We look at each day as another blessing and will keep doing so as long as Lucy is comfortable and happy.

      Like

      1. Shagun's avatar

        That’s the only way forward John ! Hugs to Lucy

        Liked by 1 person

  42. Ankur Mithal's avatar

    Sorry to hear this, John! I hope the time she has is painless and happy. As you rightly guessed, I am one of the many who have looked forward to these exchanges each time I come back to your blog. Each time they have brought a smile on my face. Stay strong.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Ankur. We will keep her comfortable until its time. Each day we count as a blessing. Thank you for your encouraging words.

      Liked by 1 person

  43. Sorryless's avatar

    I am heartbroken over this news John. Lucy feels like a member of MY family thanks to you and your wife sharing all her adventures. My thoughts and prayers are with Lucy and Twiggy and you guys.

    I love you

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Aw thank you, Marc. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers. I love you as well.

      Liked by 1 person

  44. Resa's avatar

    Oh John!
    I had a dream about this several nights ago.
    I thought…this is stupid! Why am I making up sad stuff?

    😢 Best to you! You have my mail. If you need to vent, want support, talk ( I can send my #) anything… you know where to find me.
    OX 😢 OX 😢 OX 😢 OX

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Sometimes it is a matter of sensing things and before you know it the dream appears. I am doing fine, Resa. We are taking it a day at a time making sure Lucy is comfortable. She is now but we have no idea how long that will last. I do know where to find you and so appreciate your offer of support. I will certainly take you up on your generosity should it become necessary. For now just those OXes are comfort enough. OX OX OX OX. 🤗

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Resa's avatar

        Okay.
        OX 💋 OX 💋 OX 💋 OX 💋

        Liked by 1 person

  45. D. Wallace Peach's avatar

    Well, my heart is broken, John, as I sniffle into a tissue and wipe away my tears. Saying goodbye to my family members, 2-legged and 4-footed, has been the hardest part of life. ❤ ❤

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      You and I agree with that, Diana. I wish there was another way but this life of ours has it;s highs and lows. Someone once said the lows are there so we can appreciate the highs. Lucy is comfortable and happy so we will try to keep her that way until it is time to say goodby. Thank you for your lovely words.

      Liked by 1 person

  46. Audrey Dawn - Oldest Daughter Redheaded Sister's avatar

    I have loved your pet stories, and am grateful I didn’t miss this update. I remember your post on your cat, as well. Cherish your time with Lucy. Will be praying for y’all. ♡

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Audrey.

      Like

  47. Teri Polen's avatar

    Oh, John, I’m so sorry to hear this. I’ve never even met Lucy, and I’m crying. What a lovely explanation to Twiggy. Enjoy every minute she has left.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you for the tender words,Teri. She is comfortable and we intend to keep her that way until it’s time.

      Liked by 1 person

  48. robertawrites235681907's avatar

    I am really sorry to read this news, John. Hugs.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you, Robbie.

      Liked by 1 person

  49. Frank @ Beach Walk Reflections's avatar

    I may be a week late on this one, but late still has a way of bringing tears. Peace and strength to all.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. John W. Howell's avatar

      Thank you for your comforting words, Frank.

      Liked by 1 person