COLIN & LILY our story Our journey.

As the phone rang, disrupting the quiet of my home, I felt a pang of anxiety. I recognized the voice instantly—Professor Dr. K****r. My heart sank. I had a sinking feeling about what was to come. Unfortunately, my suspicions were confirmed. The treatments I had undergone hadn't achieved the desired outcome. The white cells in my body remained stubbornly large, rendering them ineffective against whatever they were meant to combat. They needed to be reduced to a size one million times smaller than their current state—merely a millionth of a single micron. It was a daunting prospect, to say the least.

Despite the grim news, I hadn't lost all hope. I had opted to participate in experimental trials, not just for my sake but for the countless others who might face similar battles in the future. Optimism was a trait I clung to fiercely, but I couldn't ignore the gravity of my situation. The reality loomed before me—I was teetering on the edge of a precipice, and the fall could be swift and merciless.

"I don't want to die yet," the words lingered in the air, heavy with a mixture of fear, defiance, and resignation. I understood the odds, but I refused to surrender to them without a fight. The experimental, unlicensed medications offered a sliver of hope—a chance, however slim, to prepare my body for the ultimate gamble: a stem cell transplant. The alternative was a grim forecast—five to seven months of palliative end-of-life care.

The weight of my circumstances settled upon me like a suffocating blanket. Yet, amidst the turmoil, there was a glimmer of determination. I was resolved to face this challenge head-on, armed with whatever tools were at my disposal. The road ahead was fraught with uncertainty, but I drew strength from the knowledge that I wasn't alone. The support system surrounding me—my loved ones, medical professionals, and the unwavering compassion of strangers—served as pillars of strength in my darkest hours.

As I grappled with the enormity of my situation, another emotional upheaval added to the tumult. The recent rehoming of Lily Longdog, a faithful companion whose presence had been a source of comfort and solace, left a void in my heart. The ache of her absence compounded the already overwhelming emotions, stirring a rawness within me that I hadn't anticipated. It was a reminder of the fragility of life and the transient nature of our connections.

Despite the emotional turbulence, I resolved to share my journey openly, for as long as I am  able. Social media platforms have become a conduit for my thoughts, fears, and fleeting moments of hope. It was a way to bridge the distance between myself and those who cared, a lifeline in a sea of uncertainty.

Lily's transition into her new life unfolded like the chapters of a heartening novel. Steve, her newfound companion, filled her days with boundless joy and unbridled fun. Under the care of her remarkable guardians, Lily embarked on a journey of love and adventure that surpassed even the happiest moments we had shared.

Steve, a kindred spirit to Lily, quickly became her partner in mischief and play. Their laughter echoed through the halls, a testament to the genuine connection forming between them. Lily's new guardians, with hearts as vast as the ocean they frequented for holidays, proved to be the ideal custodians for my beloved furry friend.

The prospect of three beach vacations a year spoke volumes about the dedication of Lily's new family. I envisioned her frolicking in the sand, the salty breeze tousling her fur as she reveled in the freedom of the open shores. It was a life of abundance – filled with love, spoils, and the simple pleasures of beachside bliss.

However, joy wasn't the only currency in Lily's new home. It seemed that Steve had already initiated a playful taxation system. A cheese tax, demanded with a mischievous twinkle in his eye, and a milk tax, enforced by the ever-enthusiastic Lily. Imagining their daily routine brought a smile to my face, knowing that their antics would fill the household with laughter and love.

As I marveled at the potential chaos of Lily's new life, a twinge of jealousy crept in. How I longed to be a part of the mirth and mayhem that surely awaited them. Yet, that envy was quickly eclipsed by overwhelming elation. Lily had found a family whose warmth and affection mirrored my own, ensuring that her days would be filled with happiness, playfulness, and the genuine love she deserved.

In the end, while I might miss the daily companionship, the sheer joy that Lily would experience in her new home was a priceless gift. My heart swelled with gratitude, knowing that she had landed in a place where her spirit could soar, and her days would be painted with the hues of love and laughter.

I had a vision born out of a love for our four-legged companions – vending machines dispensing dog waste bags strategically placed in high-volume dog areas. The concept was simple yet revolutionary, a solution to a common problem that dog owners faced daily. We rallied, worked tirelessly, and secured the machines, the product, the packaging, and several prime locations. The excitement was palpable as we geared up for the grand launch, unaware that fate had a different script for the day.

On the day that was meant to mark the beginning of our venture, destiny took an unforeseen turn. While out for a routine walk, I found myself grappling for breath, pain coursing through my body, rendering me incapable of walking. Panic set in, and with a trembling hand, I dialed for an ambulance. Little did I know that this moment would set in motion a series of events that would forever alter the trajectory of my life.

The ambulance rushed me to A&E East Glamorgan Hospital, where the corridors echoed with the urgency of medical care. Fear gripped me as I lay there, struggling for every breath. The initial concern, however, wasn't my heart, as one might expect. Instead, it was the sudden appearance of an impeccably dressed gentleman surrounded by a team of consultants, each one eagerly clutching clipboards and taking notes.

In the midst of my pain and confusion, the air heavy with uncertainty, the impeccably dressed gentleman approached. His eyes, a mix of compassion and professionalism, met mine. "You have A.M.L," he stated, the words hanging in the air like a foreboding storm. In my haze of pain, the first thought that crossed my mind was oddly whimsical – "Aston Martin Lagonda?" A momentary escape into the absurdity of confusion before the reality of his next words crashed over me.

"Acute Myeloid Leukemia," he explained, dispelling the automotive daydream with a heavy dose of reality. My heart sank, not from the initial confusion but from the weight of the diagnosis. In a flash, I was whisked away to U.H.E Heath to begin a journey that would test the limits of my strength and resilience – high-dose, intense chemotherapy.

As I sit down to express my gratitude, I'm overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support from our incredible online community. To all 26,000 Instagram followers, thank you for being an integral part of our journey. Your likes, comments, and shared moments have transformed ordinary days into extraordinary ones. Each scroll through our feed has been a reminder of the warmth and connectivity that social media can bring. It's more than numbers on a screen; it's a community that has made our time together truly special. https://www.instagram.com/lilylongdog0/

The journey continued on TikTok, where 9,000 followers joined us in celebrating the joy that is Lily. The videos we created were not just about sharing snippets of our lives but about creating a shared space of laughter and delight. Your enthusiasm and engagement have fueled our creativity, turning Lily's antics into moments of shared joy. To each TikTok follower, thank you for finding joy in Lily's world – your presence has been a delightful addition to our digital family.

Facebook, with its 6,000 followers, became a canvas for shared laughter, chuckles, and, at times, tears. The community we found there embraced us with open hearts, turning every post into a conversation, every share into a virtual hug. Your presence turned the mundane into the extraordinary, and for that, we are immensely grateful.

To express the depth of our appreciation seems almost inadequate. Each like, comment, and share has left an indelible mark on our hearts. Your virtual cheers and words of encouragement have been a balm during challenging times and a joyful echo during moments of celebration. From the bottom of our hearts, myself and Lily extend our sincerest thanks to each and every one of you.

A special mention goes to Greyhound Rescue Wales, an organization that played a pivotal role in finding the ideal and perfect home for Lily. Your dedication to the well-being of animals has not only changed Lily's life but has also enriched ours. The tireless efforts and commitment of organizations like yours are the unsung heroes in the stories of countless furry companions finding their forever homes.

As we embark on new chapters and adventures, I carry with me the immeasurable gratitude for the digital family that has gathered around Lily and me. It's not just about the numbers; it's about the shared moments, the laughter, and the collective kindness that have made this online community a haven of love and positivity. Thank you, thank you, thank you – from the depths of our hearts. Lily and I are forever grateful for the joy you've brought into our lives.

It is with great difficulty that I express the challenges I am currently facing, both physically and emotionally. I feel compelled to reach out and share my thoughts with you, as you have been a significant part of my life.

Over the past few months, my health has taken an unexpected turn, and the harsh realities of my situation have become undeniable. The fine balancing act between sustaining my life and preventing the relentless progression of cancer has become increasingly precarious. As I navigate through this difficult journey, my mobility has suffered significantly, impacting the simple joys of life that were once taken for granted.

One of the most heart-wrenching consequences of this situation is the toll it has taken on my ability to care for and be with my constant source of compassion and unconditional love – Lily. She has been my beacon of light through thick and thin, a loyal companion who has witnessed both joyous moments and the trials of life. It is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge the limitations my health has imposed on our daily routines, particularly our cherished walks, which have become increasingly challenging for me.

In the face of these adversities, I find myself at a crossroads, forced to make decisions that are as difficult as they are inevitable. Currently, the medication I am taking is having a discernible effect, providing a window of opportunity for a potential transplant. However, embarking on this journey is not without its risks, with a 50/50 chance of success over the next two years. The prospect of failure is daunting, and in the event that the transplant is not successful, the alternative is palliative care – a short-lived period of 5 to 7 months.

It is within this context that I am compelled to consider the well-being of Lily, who deserves nothing but the best in life. The harsh reality that has hit home is that I may no longer be able to provide the love and care she deserves. The prospect of not being able to walk her as we once did is particularly heartbreaking. Lily, with her unwavering loyalty and affection, deserves a life filled with joy and the companionship she so freely gives.

This brings me to a decision that pains me deeply but is born out of love and responsibility – the possibility of finding a new home for Lily. I cannot emphasize enough how difficult and heart-wrenching this choice is for me. The love and bond we share are immeasurable, and the thought of parting ways is nothing short of agonizing.

In making this decision, I am considering Lily's happiness and well-being above all else. It is my utmost priority to ensure that she continues to experience the love and care that she has been accustomed to throughout her life. I believe that finding her a new home where she can thrive and be cherished is the responsible choice, given the uncertainties that lie ahead.

In the quiet spaces between rounds of chemotherapy, when the weight of treatment and the uncertainty of the future loomed large, there was Lily—an ever-present force of comfort, routine, and meaning. Her furry form, adorned with unconditional love, brought a warmth that transcended the clinical confines of my medical journey.

Lily, with her wagging tail and soulful eyes, became more than just a pet. She transformed into a lifeline, a steadfast companion who gave me strength when my own wavered. Her loyalty knew no bounds, and in those moments of physical weakness and emotional vulnerability, she stood by me, offering a unique brand of solace that only a four-legged friend can provide.

Unable to work during this challenging period, Lily and I embarked on a journey of togetherness that went beyond the walls of our home. We explored the world at a pace dictated by the rhythm of our hearts, finding joy in the simplicity of shared moments. One of the silver linings in this challenging chapter of my life was the opportunity to connect with other dog owners, forging bonds that were as unbreakable as the leash that connected us during our walks.

Our adventures together took an unexpected turn when we stumbled upon the world of gastronomy. Lily and I, armed with an adventurous spirit and an appreciation for good food, began our foray into the realm of gourmet burgers. These culinary escapades turned into something more profound—they became a source of joy, a shared passion that added a sprinkle of delight to our days.

What began as a casual exploration of local burger joints evolved into something quite unexpected. Lily, with her photogenic charm and a palate for the finer things in life (read: juicy burgers), became a social media sensation. Her Instagram account, a chronicle of our gastronomic adventures, garnered attention far beyond what I could have anticipated.

The highlight of this unexpected journey was the creation of our very own gastro burger reviews. Lily, with her discerning taste and endearing canine quirks, added a unique flavor to our reviews. Her interactions with various burger joints, sprinkled with a dash of canine humor, made Lily an internet sensation. To my surprise, the page amassed quite a following—people from various corners of the world resonated with Lily's charm and our shared love for food.

In the world of social media, Lily became a symbol of joy, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between humans and their pets. Her posts brought smiles to faces across the globe, and the community that formed around Lily's adventures became a source of support and connection during moments when I felt isolated in my health battle. 

Through this unexpected journey, I have come to realize the profound impact that a furry friend can have on one's life. Lily, with her kind nature and ability to find joy in the simplest of moments, has been my teacher, my confidante, and my constant source of inspiration.

As I reflect on the past three years, I am filled with gratitude for the privilege of being Lily's guardian, friend, and companion. She has not only enriched my life but has also touched the hearts of those who have followed our journey. Lily's ability to bring joy amidst adversity is a testament to the resilience and unconditional love that our animal companions offer.

In closing, I want to express my deepest thanks to Lily, my canine muse, and to all those who have joined us on this unexpected adventure. Your support, encouragement, and shared laughter have been a balm to my soul during the challenging moments of my health journey. Lily, with her wagging tail and infectious enthusiasm, has not only been a faithful friend but a beacon of light in the midst of darkness.

Thank you, Lily, for being my constant companion, my source of joy, and my furry reminder that even in the most challenging chapters of life, there is beauty to be found in the simple act of sharing a burger with a loyal friend.