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Coal
On February 6, 2004 about 7:00 pm, I sat reading my LabsR4U email. My husband
left the house, accompanied by the dogs, to take out the garbage. I heard
hubby's voice coming from outside, somewhere, talking to Coal. I figured Coal
was ignoring him so I headed to the door when a neighbor burst into the kitchen
and shouted, "Call an ambulance, Michael slipped and fell on the ice!"
Off to the hospital, Michael in shock, his right leg shortened and twisted.
X-rays taken, Michael had broken the top of his femur off. The orthopedic
surgeon was unavailable; Michael would be transported to the Buffalo General
Hospital, 90 miles away. Back home to pack clothes and make arrangements for the
care of the fur kids.
Back to the hospital to meet up with the ambulance but I lose sight of it while
following in a snow storm. Eventually I find my way and meet up with Michael in
the emergency room. More tests and it was determined the head of the femur could
re-attached with rods instead of a hip replacement. Surgery would be within the
next two days.
About 1:30 am, Michael was able to talk coherently, though feebly. I asked the
questions I'd been keeping inside. I finally asked, "What were the dogs doing
while you were lying in the driveway?"
Michael said, "They were jumping around, licking my face and peeing on the
garbage I dropped. I guess they thought I was playing. I kept telling Coal to go
get Mommy…go get Mommy…please, go get Mommy."
Michael plucked at my sleeve, "Pamela?"
"Yes", leaning down to hear him better.
Sadly, he looked me in the eyes and stated, "Coal is no Lassie!"
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