As mothers, all we want is for our kids to be happy and healthy, right? And I think it’s safe to say that we’d do pretty much anything in the world to ensure their well being and safety, even if it means putting ourselves in harm’s way.

A woman in the U.K. named Sarah Brook was put to the ultimate test when she had to choose between possibly saving her own life or saving the life of her unborn baby. When she was six months pregnant with her daughter, she got the devastating news that she was battling bowel cancer. She’d been suffering from back aches and morning sickness, which are two symptoms that can typically be attributed to pregnancy — and she was no doubt shocked when she learned that she actually had a life threatening disease.

Sarah was faced with a gut wrenching dilemma when she had to choose whether to start chemotherapy and risk the life of her baby, or to delay treatment altogether in the hopes that her child might live.

Ultimately, she decided that the life of her baby was more important than her own, so she put off chemo and wound up delivering her baby girl, Polly Jean, premature at 27 weeks. 

The baby is now 4 weeks old, and her condition is improving — and odds are good that she will go on to lead a full and happy life. but sadly, 32-year-old Sarah is nearing the end of her fight. the cancer has spread to her lungs, pancreas, neck, and intestines. And this is a battle she knows she isn’t going to win. Doesn’t that make you want to break down and cry? This is seriously one of the most heartbreaking and unfair things I’ve ever heard of a mother having to go through.

Holding her tiny baby in her arms and knowing that she won’t live to see her grow up is beyond devastating. but at the same time, I can’t help but feel inspired by her selflessness and her incredible love and devotion for her child. I mean, the thought must have crossed her mind more than once that delaying her treatment may cost her the ultimate price, but she still chose to put the health of her child above her own survival. if that doesn’t speak volumes about the level of unconditional love in her heart, then I don’t know what does.

Knowing her time with her baby girl is running out, I’m sure she’s savoring every single second she has to cuddle her, smell her tiny, perfect little head, and tell her how much she loves her. This little girl may not remember her mother growing up, but hearing the story of the incredible sacrifice she made will remind her of just how much she loved and cherished her — even before she was born.

I only hope that Sarah can find some peace in the fact that she saved her baby’s life, and that her legacy will live on in her daughter forever.

What would you do if you were faced with a decision like Sarah’s?

Image via Family O’Abé/Flickr

Pancreatitis in dogs occurs when digestive enzymes in the pancreas begin to break down tissue. this life-threatening disease usually affects older, female dogs. Breeds such as miniature poodle, miniature schnauzer, and cocker spaniel also have an increased risk.

Causes

Dog pancreatitis can occur for no known reason. there are also various things that can cause it. They include ingestion of toxins, certain medications, and obesity. your dog’s diet can also play a role, as dogs that ingest a lot of fatty meat have an increased risk. an obstruction of the pancreatic duct or kidney disease are also common causes.

Symptoms

If your dog has pancreatitis, he will display a range of symptoms. When lying down, your dog will likely have his rear end up in the air. He will also arch his back when standing up. Other symptoms of this disease include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.

Treatment

Pancreatitis in dogs is initially treated by withdrawing food and water for 24 hours. this will give your dog’s pancreas much needed rest and will stop production of digestive enzymes. If the pancreatic duct is blocked, surgery will be required to correct it. your dog will also be given drugs to help control vomiting and pain. Secondary infections can also become a problem, so antibiotics may be necessary.

Prognosis

With medications and a new diet, some dogs are able to recover from this condition. however, there are many complications that can complicate recovery. this includes medical conditions such as liver or kidney failure, heart problems, or diabetes.

In addition to pancreatitis, there are many other conditions that can affect your dog such as canine tapeworms. any responsible owner should want to know the causes and symptoms of some of these conditions in case they affect your dog. Dog-illnesses.com provides all of the information you need about a wide range of diseases. So, stop by right now to learn about some of these conditions like canine bladder stones

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