Lucy’s Legacy: Lessons in Love, Gratitude, and Resilience

Saying Goodbye to Lucy

I have some difficult news to share.

This month, we had to put Lucy down. Saying goodbye to my sweet beautiful girl is one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. While she was able to overcome numerous medical issues, her cluster seizures were no longer manageable, even with high doses of medication. While it’s been a time of many (MANY!) tears, it has also been a time for reflection. I wanted to share some of my thoughts with you, knowing that many of you have faced or will face similar moments in your journey as Coton owners.

Every dog parent knows the incredible joy these companions bring to our lives, but also the heartbreak when it’s time to let them go. It’s during these trying times that I find myself asking: “What am I supposed to take away from this experience? How do I make sense of the joy and the pain?”

The Hard Questions

After 3 ½ years of managing Lucy’s health challenges (so many!), it could be easy to focus on the negatives—the worry and sleepless nights, the financial strain, and the lingering questions:

• “Why couldn’t I cure her?”
• “What if I never overcome the financial setback from all her medical bills?”
• “What if I didn’t do enough?”

These thoughts are human and normal, but they don’t tell the whole story. On my better days, I can see past them and reflect on the overwhelming positive side of having Lucy in my life.

The Gifts Lucy Gave Me

Lucy’s journey wasn’t easy, but the lessons and love she gave me are treasures I will carry forever. Here’s some of what she taught me:

• Unconditional love and joy: Lucy loved with her whole heart. Even on her worst days, she woke up with a wagging tail and looked at me like I was her hero.
• A deep and unshakable bond: Our connection was unlike any other because of the challenges we faced together.
• Compassion for others: I’ve grown a deeper understanding and empathy for pet parents going through tough times and even single parents managing it all.
• Gratitude for the good days: Her playful moments and quirks brought light into even the darkest days. I am grateful that there were so many good days.
• Appreciation for care and kindness: The amazing doctors who went above and beyond—meeting us on Sundays and sharing their personal contact information—restored my faith in human kindness. I can’t stress enough how important it is to find help. When one vet didn’t have answers I would find another one. When I was too emotional or tired to know the next steps, I relied on others for help. You don’t have to go through challenges alone!! Lucy taught me that asking for help was a superpower. People want to help - LET THEM!
• Acceptance: I had to accept that Lucy would never be like my first Coton, Luc, or any other dog. She was unique and lovable just as she was.
• Resilience: Lucy showed me that I could rise to challenges I never imagined facing.

A Grateful Goodbye

This Thanksgiving, I’m reflecting on all that Lucy brought to my life. I’m deeply grateful for nearly four years with her. The ups and downs were part of the package of loving her, and I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything.

To those of you who have faced similar challenges with your dogs, know that your efforts matter more than words can express. These moments, as difficult as they are, shape us and deepen our capacity for love.

Thank you for letting me share this part of my journey with you, and for being part of Lucy’s story.

Happy Thanksgiving to all who celebrate.