A year ago, we brought our then 11-year old Jack to SASH North Ryde as referred by our regular vet after suspecting he had Cushings.
After a thorough consultation with Dr Amy Lam, blood tests and a CT scan that same day, we found out that Jack had a ‘right adrenal mass with massive thrombus into the caudal vena cava to heart’.
He needed a big surgery to remove the mass (adrenalectomy), but because of the tumour extension, they also had to open up his chest (cavotomy) to remove it from his vena cava. This surgery is very complex; I’ve read stories from owners around the world — when there’s vena cava invasion, a lot of vets will not recommend surgery, “too high a risk” they said.
The thought of our Jack going through such a big surgery, and knowing there was a high chance he won’t make it was beyond frightening. But we also knew he will definitely succumb to his condition if he doesn’t undergo surgery. How can we not give him a chance?
Dr Tristram Bennett went through the details of the surgery with us very thoroughly. Being a critical care nurse, I was very impressed with the facilities SASH offers. So despite the grave fear, I somehow had confidence we are giving Jack the best chance. I knew in my heart he was in the right place.
Jack underwent surgery on 29th of January 2025. Dr Tristram said his liver was pretty much black due to the mass restricting blood flow, and his right kidney had to be removed because the mass was stuck to it.
But wow, he made it through! He was in ICU for a few days post op, and had the best team we could ask for. We knew he was loved and well-cared for by all the ICU Staff.
Five days later, Jack was home. Our miracle boy. We celebrated his 12th birthday a month after his discharge. This year he’ll turn 13!!
We are forever grateful to the SASH North Ryde team. Jack wouldn’t still be here with us if not for you guys.
– North Ryde NSW
