May 13th 2009 11:16 pm
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It is with a heavy heart that I share with you that my dearest Basil, my heart and soul, died in my arms this morning.

Basil had been doing pretty well with his chemotherapy at home. His progress was great, and his prognosis good. But day or two ago, he took a turn for the worst. Basil developed some sort of infection that his body was unable to fight off due to his compromised immune system. He went downhill VERY quickly, and I am glad that my baby boy didn't suffer.

After a trip to the vet this afternoon, it was clear that Basil may not make it through the night. I brought him home on IV fluids and antibiotics, and stayed home from work to be with him. I was constantly by his side for the next 10 hours, right up until he took his last breath.

More than one stranger over the years has commented on the obvious bond between Basil and myself, a bond the likes of which I have never known with any of my other dogs. I have no doubt Basil knew how much I loved him. A part of me died with him. My mother passed away very unexpectedly the week before Basil was diagnosed with Leukemia. I am confident she was there to help my baby boy with his transition.