Freckles 6 years with acromegaly

[Judy and Freckles]

Freckles crossed over the bridge this afternoon at the age of 18 years old. She Had diabetes and acromegaly for the past 6 years. Her condition was managed with only insulin as meds nor operation were an option. I accepted that her numbers would hover around that 10-15 mark (Canadian) and the most insulin she ever got was 11.5 u twice a day but for most of the time she was down to 3 u. This past week she actually went OTJ but it was likely due to her body shutting down. She continued to eat twice as much as my other cats up until this week but weighed the same. The volunteers on this board were instrumental with her well being and we owe them these past 6 years to this dedicated team who selflessly give of their time and experience to help other cat owners. I enjoyed my extra years with Freckles immensely and for that I thank you.

 

[Suzanne & Darcy]

Oh wow, dear Judy, I am really sorry that you have lost Freckles. I heard about you and Freckles. Wendy has mentioned you before — and that Freckles has been managed with just insulin and no other medications and was doing well. I don’t think I realized that Freckles had been living with acromegaly for 6 years. What a miracle Freckles was. As the mom of an acrocat, I understand the bond between you. I also lost a beloved 18 year old cat this past year. It’s hard. I know how much you will miss Freckles. My heart goes out to you.

 

[Judy and Freckles]

Oh wow, dear Judy, I am really sorry that you have lost Freckles. I heard about you and Freckles. Wendy has mentioned you before — and that Freckles has been managed with just insulin and no other medications and was doing well. I don’t think I realized that Freckles had been living with acromegaly for 6 years. What a miracle Freckles was. As the mom of an acrocat, I understand the bond between you. I also lost a beloved 18 year old cat this past year. It’s hard. I know how much you will miss Freckles. My heart goes out to you.

Thank you for your kind words. Yes, I believe Freckles was an anomaly, since up until last week she was still jumping up to her test and dose spot. There definitely was a strong bond since, between myself and my husband, there was always someone her to make sure Freckles got her insulin. There is not much research out there for treating acrocats just with insulin, but she is proof that there is a chance for these furballs.

 

[Christie & Maverick]

(((Judy))) I’m so very sorry to read this update. You’ve been such a good caregiver for Freckles over the years. Saying goodbye is always hard, and when one cares so much, the loss is even more greatly felt. Sending you lots of .

 

[Wendy&Neko]

Judy - I am so sorry you had to say goodbye to Freckles. You did such a a great job with her. I was thinking of her a few weeks ago.

I know of just a couple other acros on FDMB that made it to 5-6 years just being treated with insulin. Until relatively recently, that was the only treatment possible. Freckles sure was a fighter against acromegaly.