I've been lurking and commenting here for a while now.  But after 2.5 years,  I think it's time for Maddys success story. 

It happened really fast.   One morning, my mom said she thought Maddy wasn't feeling well, she was hesitant to hop up on the couch.  I sat on the couch and called her over and she jumped right up.   So I just said to keep an eye on her and I went to work.  I get home and check on her,  and now she's hesitant.  Won't sit on the couch with me, won't do stairs,  acting very strange.  I carried her up to bed and made an appointment with the vet for the next morning.  Before the call ended,   she started shaking and panting in pain.  So I canceled the appointment and ran straight to the emergency vet. 

By the time we got there, it was no longer hesitancy, she had no function in her back half.   I remember taking her out of the car,  and she just drug herself towards the grass.   I broke down,  I had no idea what was going on, and it was awful to see my 4 year old, otherwise happy healthy dog in that state.

After a half an hour of waiting in the waiting area for them to finish their eval, they brought us in and told us what was going on.  I was terrified.   I was in my early 30's with not much money at all to my name, with parents that couldn't help financially.  And there was no promise of success.   I hated that decision and all the thoughts I had to consider.  But I took a loan with care credit and we got her every bit of care her vet recommended. 

Recovery was very slow and full of worry.  2 weeks before she could stand again,  2 months before we could even start rehab with her,  and 6 months before her progress was fully complete. 

But it was all worth it.  She's fully recovered and happy as ever.   We still limit her,  but she would otherwise act as if she doesn't have any.  Still fast as ever,  still wants to jump everywhere, still wants to play with every dog she meets.  She's got her life back and that's worth any price. 

Success!!!