John and Jordan Fredericks - KVBC Jordan Fredericks - Las Vegas Nevada


In loving Memory of
Jordan Fredericks
January 30, 1994 - August 4, 2007

Jordan Comes Home - 9-10-07
Click here for Photo

This past Saturday at 10AM I picked up Jordan’s urn from the Craig Road Pet Cemetery. We had one last emotional “ride in the car” and now Jordan will always occupy the most special place of honor on our mantel. The other reason I was at the Cemetery was to meet with Doug Duke of the NSPCA. They NSPCA have graciously offered to fun the building of a permanent memorial in Jordan’s honor at the cemetery for people to visit for all of time. Look for more news on this as time passes.

August 8, 2007

Well, here we go.  This will probably be my final update on my sweet old boy, Jordan.  There maybe a P.S. somewhere down the road.  And, I will keep Jordan's website operational as a living memorial to such a special soul.

On Friday, August 3rd, the workday started out as routine as possible.  Jordan was not eating and I hadn't seen him drink from his water bowl in some time, but he was able to get up and move around with little help.  So, at around 2:30 that morning, we loaded up in the SUV and headed off to work.  I honestly did not believe anywhere in my heart or mind that it would be our last workday together.

When we got to the station, Jordan was walking OK, but he was getting noticeably shaky with the use of his back legs.  But, he's was happy to be at work, just the same and the day started out as a typical Friday.

Shortly after 7:30, Jordan expressed his routine desire to go outside, so I walked him to the News 3 "Doggy Run" and let him in.  A short while later I when outside to check on him and I saw him up and trying to walk by "dragging" his hind legs behind him.  I ran inside, told everybody I had to take Jordan to the vet, slung both arms under his belly and got him in the back of the SUV.  I called Sahara Pines Animal Hospital and was told that Dr. Dan (Kristine's husband) was on duty and to bring Jordan in right away.

Upon examination, I asked Dr. Dan if "we were there yet," and he said:  "John, he's dehydrated and I want to try to pump some fluids into him and keep him here all day.  Let's give him one more chance and if he's able to "rally," we might be OK for a while.  But, if you're right back here again next week, we're gonna have to make a decision."

I left Jordan in Dr. Dan's care, called in to say I was taking the rest of the day off; made some other needed phone calls and went home to rest, hope and pray.

I was so exhausted I must've fell asleep because the phone ringing awoke me and it was the vet's office.  (This was just before 6PM)  I was told that Jordan was doing "OK" and I could "come pick him up."   

When I got to the vet's office I guess I expected to see a significant improvement, but Jordan was unable to walk on his own and we had to use a towel "sling" to get him to the SUV.  When we got home I hoped and prayed that he might have a good night and would feel better the next morning.  I was wrong.   

Since Jordan was not eating his "normal" food, I fixed him some tuna and water and he "scarfed" that down immediately.  That picked up my spirits somewhat.  I was still very tired and I grabbed a comforter and laid it on the tile floor in our main living area, curled up to my old boy and promptly fell asleep.  Late that night I woke up with a start and felt that Jordan's coat was all wet.  I sat up and realized that he, having finally lost all control of his bladder, had simply voided himself of all the urine that had backed up in his bladder.  It was at that moment I knew we were at "the end of the road."  I called Dr. Kristine's cell phone and told her "it's time."  She told me to meet her at the clinic early the next morning "before we open and get busy.  I don't want you to have to deal with any more people than necessary."  I asked her if we shouldn't do what was necessary at my home and she convinced me it would be better at the clinic "because Jordan always knew when he came here that we were going to make him feel better and I don't want to confuse him by coming to your house.  Plus, I don't want your final memory of Jordan at home to be a sad one."

I curled back up next to my boy and had a serious talk with him.  I told him that if he needed to "leave," that was just fine with me and that I would understand.  I told him he was "the best, old man" and that he would always be "daddy's baby boy."  His breathing suddenly became very shallow and his breaths seemed like an eternity apart.  I honestly thought he was going to die right there on the floor of our home, in my arms.  I was wrong.   

A short while later, I lifted by sweet boy off of the floor, took him out to the pool and we had one last swim together.  I hooked my arm around his body and "walked" him around the pool for a few last laps.  Then, I lifted him onto the deck, toweled him off, and laid him inside the dining area on a fresh, dry towel.  I laid on the couch; alone, depressed and exhausted but would get up every few minutes just to check on him.  At one point I noticed he was shivering and I went over thinking he was cold from still being a little damp.  But, his body was warm and when he looked up at me, I knew that he was scared.  I stroked his head and spoke words of comfort and support to him and soon he stopped shivering, laid his head down and fell back to sleep.

Around 4AM, I made a pot of coffee, woke Jordan up to give him a few of his favorite treats.  At that time I noticed that his eyes had stopped draining and there was none of the normal "sleepy stuff" in the corners of his eyes.  I knew that he must have gotten dehydrated again I tried to get him to at least drink some juice, to no avail.  I poured a cup of coffee, started the car and got Jordan in the back for "one last run" at Bonanza High School.  When we got to his old favorite soccer field, I lifted him out of the back of the SUV and set him on the cool grass.  He tried so desperately to get up and go for his "run," but the back third of his body had simply stopped "working."  Sadly, I loaded him back in the SUV, grabbed my digital camera, and took a final "self" portrait of the two of us.  I took a few other photos of him throughout the morning as I wanted to always be able to remember his last day on this Earth.

We stopped by McDonald's on the way home and I bought Jordan an Sausage McMuffin with Egg.  (I figured diet was no longer an issue, right?)  Why not some "junk" food to munch on one last time!  When I got home, I lifted the back lift gate and gave Jordan his breakfast and he tore right through it!  We had a good time with that and then I pulled him out of the car, laid him in front of the house and took a few more pictures.

At 7:00 on Saturday morning, I loaded Jordan up one last time in the back of "his" SUV and we headed off to the Sahara Pines Animal Hospital.  We made one final stop so he could say "Goodbye" to my ex and her son and dog and then proceeded across town to the clinic.  We arrived early and I lifted him out of the back of the SUV and laid him on the grassy area in front of the clinic.  I sat next to him and told him we were gonna "make him feel better.  Then we'd go for a LONG ride in the car, go play with those other doggies and go swimmin' in the water!"  I took a few more pictures of him and we talked some more and then Dr. Kristine drove up.  She came over, gave us both a hug and told me she was going to go inside to "get things ready."  I was trying so hard to hold up and I spoke calmly and lovingly to my old boy and we simply shared a few more special moments together.   

At 7:15, one of the techs came out and lifted Jordan in his arms and we went inside.  They had gotten everything ready and laid Jordan down on a soft blanket.  I can honestly tell you there was not a dry eye in the clinic.  I sat on the floor next to Jordan and told him again that he was gonna "go to sleep and when he woke up we were gonna go for a LONG ride in the car."  (Doug Duke from the NSPCA told me several days earlier that I would "have plenty of time to grieve AFTERWARD."  He said:  "John, DO NOT make a big deal out of it or get too emotional because you'll scare him and traumatize him."  Some of the best counsel I ever received from anyone.)  Dr. Kristine told me that Jordan would simply go to sleep and then his heart would just "stop beating."   

I mentioned earlier that Jordan had become dehydrated again and his tear ducts had dried up.  You have also probably been told that animals don't "cry."  Well, my friends, in those final quiet moments of Jordan's life, he looked right into my eyes and HIS eyes had filled with tears.  And, I knew exactly what he was thinking.  My sweet, loving, kind old boy believed that he was somehow finally "letting me down."  I stroked his head and whispered into his ear:  "You're the BEST old man.  You're the best doggie in the whole wide world.  Daddy loves you.  Don't you ever forget that."

At exactly 7:30 on the morning of August 4, 2007, Dr. Kristine held the stethoscope closely to Jordan's side, looked up at me with tears streaming down her face and said:  "He's gone."  I looked down at my "sleeping" boy, gave him one last hug and kiss and stood up and gave Dr. Kristine a big hug and told her how sorry I was that she was the one to "have to be here now."  She looked into my eyes and said:  "John, it was an honor and privilege and I would not have had it any other way."   

I thanked all the employees of the clinic for their kindness and compassion over the years and walked outside to a beautiful sunny Las Vegas morning.  I unlocked our SUV, got in and started the engine.  And then, for the last time, I drove away from my best friend and faithful companion knowing that he was already romping across the grassy fields, meeting old friends and waiting for "his Dad," just this side of Rainbow Bridge.  

In loving memory of "Frederick McDuff of Jordan"  "Jordan" -
January 30, 1994 - August 4, 2007

Remembering Jordan Fredericks - 8-4-07

Our beloved friend and News 3 family member Jordan Fredericks has ended his adventure here on Earth.  I have no doubt he has already joined his old friends and is waiting patiently for his Dad just this side of Rainbow Bridge.  He did not suffer in his final moments.  He simply went to sleep in my arms and in the compassionate loving care of Dr. Kristine Ziegler of the Sahara Pines Animal Hospital.  I want to thank you and everyone in the community who welcomed Jordan into your hearts and homes these past 11 years.  Anyone who would like to pay tribute to my sweet boy may do so by making any small donation in his name to the Nevada Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, NSPCA:  873-7722   

Frederick McDuff of Jordan, AKA "Jordan"  1/30/94 - 8/04/07  “Daddy’s Boy”

Services will be held at:

Craig Road Pet Cemetery (Craig & Tenaya) on Friday, August 10th at 7pm.


Here is everything you've ever wanted to know about John's faithful friend, Jordan. Find out everything about him, from how he got his name to his strengths and weaknesses and his hobbies!

Urgent! - Special needs German Shepherd needs foster or permant home or may be put down!  Read more....

Urgent! - Pet Food Recall List

Hey pet lovers! If you’re not providing your four legged friends with the benefits of Oxyfresh, PLEASE don't delay. I SWEAR by their powerful antioxidants! You’re pet will LOVE you for it! Use the link above to read about and order the Oxyfresh Pet Care Products. When you sign up as a retail customer, enter either the company name (www.paws-across-america.com), distributor name (John Fredericks) or distributor ID (180711205) when they ask you who sent you to the web site. Here's to your pet's health!

READ ACTUAL USER'S TESIMONIALS

Doorbells and strange characters can stress out your pet. Try the Oxyfresh Pet Relaxant to calm them down!


Portrait Service by Sandie Friedland
(see Jordans' portrait here)

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Dewey Veterinary Hospital
 
Low cost spay/neutering and boarding  - 873-3458
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Look at Jordan's new online photo album filled with pictures from Jordan's vacations, sporting events, and his family!  Click her for photo album
jordan photo album

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July 30, 2007

On July 21st, as promised I took the old boy back to his place of birth, Santa Barbara.  And, just as in times past as soon as he could smell the ocean air, he got excited!  When we got down to his old hang out, Hendries Beach he practically dragged me down to the sand.  Unfortunately, within 100 yards of the parking lot, the damp, cold sea air got into his joints and his hind right leg simply went limp.  So, he crawled into the water and just let the waves lap over him.  It was heartbreaking, but I knew I did the right thing.  You could tell he was so happy to be in the ocean water, if for only one final time.  We were also able to spend a little time with a few of the people I used to work with who remembered Jordan as a puppy.  Needless to say, there was not a dry I among them.  On the way back home, we stopped by to visit my mom’s gravesite, where I took a photo of Jordan in front of my mom’s marker.  Sad yes, but a picture I will always treasure.

This past weekend was exceptionally tough for us.  Jordan has gotten to the point where he seems to sense he is getting very old and has gotten to the point where he gets “scared” if he can’t find me.  He was practically immobile Saturday morning and it was a real struggle for us to get around his “run” at the Bonanza High soccer field.  So, I decided it was time to have “the” talk with his vet, Dr. Kristine Ziegler at Sahara Pines Animal Hospital.  After giving my boy the “once over,” Dr. Kristine said:  “I don’t think it’s time, but we’re getting close.  But, this IS Jordan and he’s surprised us before!”  She gave me some things for an irritated eye and for pain, should that become something of an issue.  Dr. Kristine does not believe that Jordan is in pain and that he still seems to be of sound mind and generally happy.  But, his back side is really deteriorating and I will not let him suffer.

This is a very difficult time for me.  I know you all have been down this road.  I’m sorry to have to pass along this depressing news.  However, Jordan is more than just my best friend.  He’s also a beloved member of the community and I want everyone to know what is going on.

July 20, 2007

Jordan (like many of our pets) is not handling this summer heat very well. His mobility has suffered to the point of him having to have another enema this week in addition to his Adaquin and steroid injections. His feeling a little better this morning but is still having trouble getting around. But, “Dad” is gonna try to get the old boy back to his place of birth, Santa Barbara one more time over the next few days. I’m hoping that the smell and site of the Pacific Ocean will brighten my sweet boy’s spirit, if just for a little while.

May 21, 2007

While he still has the “droopy” right eye and some cosmetic issues with “age warts,” Jordan is still very happy and lives to come to “work” here at Channel 3 each weekday morning.

That being said:  On Friday, Jordan had an “accident” in the studio and apparently was in the way of one of the studio cameras.  While this is never an issue with MOST employees here at Channel 3, there are a FEW people here that decided to make an issue out of these minor incidents.  (Unfortunately, we have a few new employees and even a few long-term employees who still don’t quite understand what my boy means to most of us.)  It also came to my attention subsequent to this event that some viewers are calling (not talking to me) to express concern about “having to watch Jordan get old on TV.”  (Quite simply, Jordan believes his “job” is to come here to work each day.  It gives him a sense of purpose and belonging.  To deny him that ritual would, in my opinion be the same as a death sentence.)

Anyway, what I’ve done is this:  1)  I’ve installed a secure leash in the studio when we’re busy in the morning.  And 2)  I’ve made it quite clear that the only two people qualified and authorized to address Jordan’s medical situation are Dr. Kristine Ziegler at Sahara Pines Animal Hospital and yours truly.  (Since any doctor is not going to discuss a medical case with a stranger, that pretty much leaves me.)

Finally, if you DO have any questions about Jordan, either email me at jfredericks@kvbc.com or phone my direct line at:  657-3422

Sincerest regards,

John Fredericks

April 11 , 2007

Yesterday morning, as we were getting ready for work, I noticed that Jordan’s right lower eyelid was drooping noticeably.  I wasn’t sure if he had gotten something in there or it was allergy related.  Unfortunately, it is something more serious.  According to Jordan’s vet, Dr. Kristine Ziegler at Sahara Pines Animal Hospital, it is most likely something called “Horner’s Syndrome;”  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horner's_syndrome  a neurological event that affects nerves that control eye and facial muscles.  We suspect this is just another symptom of something that has been affecting Jordan’s nervous system for some time:  (Most likely a brain lesion or even a benign tumor.)

The good news is that this is primarily a cosmetic issue and there is no related pain or discomfort.  The bad news is that there is a very high likelihood that the symptoms are here to stay.

But, he’s still a happy boy and looks forward to coming to “work” each weekday with me here at Channel 3.  Thanks to Dr. Ziegler and to you for your care and prayers.

January 18, 2007

Happy New Year!

Wow!  What a year 2006 was for me and Jordan.  Plenty of high points and a few (unfortunate) low points, as well.  As many of you know, Jordan suffered a few medical setbacks during the middle part of 2006.  Also, during the fall months he started having some more problems with his hips, back and leg muscles and developed some continence issues.  But, thanks to the loving care from his doctor; Kristine Ziegler at Sahara Pines Animal Hospital, he’s getting around as well as can be expected for a “senior”  Labrador Retriever.

Jordan has been on Glucosamine and Antioxidants for years and we’ve now started to include routine injections of Adaquin.  (A much more powerful joint lubricant.)  And, as he gets ready to celebrate his 13th birthday January 30, 2007 I want to extend my sincerest “Thank You!” to all of you who have been his “friend” since we moved to Las Vegas in 1996.

Finally, as many of you know, I have decided that 2007 would mark the last of the Paws Across America calendars.  Many of you have asked “Why?”  Well, to be painfully honest, I just don’t want to promise something I can’t guarantee anymore as far as future events.  But!!!  “Never Say Never Again!”  Right?

Our Best Wishes to You and Yours for a Happy and Prosperous 2007!

August 21, 2006 - A note to Jordan's Fans:

Friday night (after returning home from dinner) we found Jordan on the living room floor unable to stand.  He also seemed bloated and was experiencing extreme discomfort in the stomach.  (My immediate concern was “bloat:” An almost certain death sentence in larger/older dogs.)   

We rushed Jordan to the Las Vegas Animal Emergency Hospital on West Charleston where we immediately greeted by their caring staff who rushed Jordan into an exam room.  After several anxious moments Dr. Keeny (a wonderful doctor on duty) came in to let me know that it WASN’T (thank God) bloat but, plainly visible in the e-rays, Jordan was extremely constipated.  (A result of age and lack of mobility.)  She injected him with some fluids to help stimulated fluids and I was permitted to take him home, with the instructions to take him to my vet in the morning if he had shown a dramatic ability in moving his bowels.  

Saturday morning Jordan was once again barely able to get up and move around and was only able to “go” just a little so I took him to Sahara Pines Animal Hospital and, upon looking at the x-rays, Dr. Kristine Ziegler determined a enema was necessary.  (She also suggested we get more aggressive treating his arthritis with routine injections of a supplement that is much like, but much stronger than Glucosamine.)  Well, the “operation” was a success!  (If you know what I mean.)   

The next morning, Jordan was able to go on his weekly “run” and was fetching the ball like a guy much younger than his 12 ½ years.  I can’t tell you how much I respect the folks at our local Emergency Hospital AND Jordan’s vet of so many years; Dr. Kristine Ziegler at Sahara Pines Animal hospital.   

Dr. Kristine says “right now let’s just focus on getting him through this Summer.”   

Folks, Jordan IS feeling better and is back to “work” this morning.  However, I've come to realize that this latest episode is simply another in a progression in a series of events that can only have one ultimate outcome.

Thanks so much for your support all these years.  I hope “our” boy has many, many more wonderful days, weeks, months and…… to come.  In the meantime, say a prayer for all of our wonderful four-legged family members.  God has blessed us with their companionship.

 Sincerest regards,
 
 John Fredericks

June 8, 2006 - A note to Jordan's Fans:

Early this week Jordan suffered what his doctor's describe as a "significant neurological event" characterized by a substantial decrease in motor skills.  Most notable was his inability to walk properly, raise his head and a dangerous increase in body temperature.
 
 He was rushed to Sahara Pines Animal Hospital where his vet, Dr.  Kristine Ziegler immediately got him on fluids to decrease body  temperature.  He also underwent e-rays and blood work.  (It's never a  good sign when your vet comes into the exam room crying.  However, Dr.  Kristine has a true love for her work and for Jordan and was not
 optimistic (to start) about a possible recovery.)
 
 Once stabilized, Jordan was transported to the Neurology Center (on  Craig near Rainbow) where he underwent a 2 hour exam by Dr. Kilburn.   It was the opinion of the wonderful staff at the Neurology center that  Jordan had suffered some type of trama to the spinal column near his neck area. However, given his advanced years and the fact that he had major  surgery almost exactly one year ago, surgery is no longer an option.  In fact, an MRI was ruled out because no matter what it might reveal,  surgery is simply not an option.  So, it was decided that the best  course of action would be to simply get his breathing back to normal,  get him on some anti-inflammatory medication and manage his mobility and pain.
 
 Of significant importance:  Both of the two most significant setbacks  in Jordan's life have come when I've been on vacation, when he was  taken out of his normal routine and (most significantly) when the temperatures were hot.  So, secondary causes are considered most certainly to be stress and heat.
 
 There is good news!  Jordan has shown substantial improvement in the  past 24 hours and is walking with just a slight limp and (most  probably due to the pain medication) is able to sleep for significant periods of time.
 
 I want to thank everyone at Sahara Pines Animal Hospital and the Vet's  Neurology Center for the caring, compassion concern and treatment of my beloved best friend.  In particular, I want to thank Dr. Kilburn and Dr. Jarboe and the Neurology Center and Dr. Kristine Ziegler at Sahara Pines. (In her words:  "I thought we were at THAT day.  But, it looks like we get to put it off a while longer!")
 
 And, thank YOU the local pet lover for your love, prayers and concern for my boy all these years.  With your support and the Grace of God,  Jordan will be back to work this Monday, June 12th.
 
 Sincerest regards,
 
 John Fredericks

May 3, 2005 - Secret Weapon

Hi friends,

Jordan’s physical recovery has been nothing short of miraculous, thanks no doubt to the hundreds of cards, e-mails and phone calls we’ve received from all of you!

However, I think you might like to know about a “Secret Weapon” that I am CONVINCED has contributed to Jordan’s longevity.  (As many of you know 11 is considered “old” for many larger breeds.  Incredibly though, when Jordan had his surgical consult, the physician said he was otherwise “strong as an ox.”)

For going on 3 ½ years, Jordan has been taking an antioxidant from a call called “Oxyfresh.”  I truly believe that these tablets that he takes each day have improved the quality of his health/life dramatically.  How do I know?  Several years ago Jordan’s hip dysplasia was really impacting his mobility (during Winter months) to the point that he was having trouble just getting up in the morning.  (Even with the Glucosamine he has taken for years!)  I was introduced to a local Oxyfresh distributor who STRONGLY recommended that I get Jordan on these antioxidant tablets.  I did and within TWO WEEKS his mobility/range of motion were practically normal!  And, ever since I RARELY have to give him Glucosamine or anything else for that matter (unless his allergies act up!)

If you’d like more information about Oxyfresh, here is the web address:

http://www.oxyfreshww.com

If you order ANYTHING be sure and use the contact:  Paws Across America (all proceeds to go Jordan’s charities.)

Thank you for your continued support and prayers for my boy!

Sincerest regards,

John Fredericks

April 22, 2005 - Lost Light

As many of you know, Jordan suffered a significant setback following his surgery of April 7th.  (He had a seizure shortly after coming back home on the afternoon of the 8th.)  He spent the next 24 hours in the care of the LV Animal Emergency Hospital and his vet, Dr. Kristine Ziegler at Sahara Pines Animal Hospital.  On the afternoon of April 9th (Saturday) I went to see him at Sahara-Pines and Dr. Kristine told me:  “John, Jordan needs to go home.”  Puzzled, I asked her what she meant.  “He needs to be with you in familiar surroundings.  We can’t do anything more for him right now except hope and pray he continues his recovery.”

I’ve got to tell you that I was actually SCARED to take Jordan home at that time because I didn’t know what I would do if he suffered another seizure.  However, I have absolutely faith and trust in his doctor and did what she instructed:  I loaded Jordan up in the back of my Pathfinder and headed back home.  It was during this trip that I noticed something that had been gone for some time:  A “twinkle” in my boy’s eyes.  Several blocks from the vet’s place, I looked into the rear view mirror and saw Jordan sitting up and staring at me.  I was immediately struck by a light in his eyes that I realized had been missing for some time.  I was shell shocked with two immediate emotions:  Jordan had been “missing,” and, Jordan was “back.”  And, at that moment I KNEW that I had made the right decision by going ahead with Jordan’s surgery.  I remember smiling for the first time in what seemed like days.  My sweet boy had turned a corner and was on the road to recovery.

Someday, (hopefully) way down the road, the light will once again “leave” my boy’s eyes and he will make his journey to wait for me this side of Rainbow Bridge.  Many of you have experienced the pain and sorrow that will one day find me.  It will, quite simply, be the darkest day of my life.  However, thanks to God’s love, wonderful medical care and your prayers, I will always be able to cherish that certain moment in time when my sweet Jordan found his “lost light.”

April 19, 2005 - Jordan Continues to Improve

It is now 10 days post-surgery and Jordan continues on his road to recovery. His breathing is closer to what it was 3-4 years ago and is no longer “labored.” And, although he continues to sleep (as most older dogs do) much of the day, his waking hours are dramatically more active than just before his operation.

Our continued “Thanks!” to all of you who have called, written or e-mailed your thoughts and prayers for my boy’s recovery. Also, I want to again express my gratitude for the excellent care afforded my sweet boy by the wonderful folks at Sahara-Pines Animal Hospital, the Las Vegas Animal Emergency Hospital and surgeon Dr. Jeff Geels.

Sincerest regards,
John Fredericks

April 11, 2005 - Jordan returned to work on what his doctor says is “limited duty.”  He’s feeling much better after Friday’s setback and continues to show remarkable improvements.  (Pneumonia is the biggest threat for the immediate future.)  However, his road to recovery is still a long one and his diet and exercise program has been severely restricted.

Should you see us out in public, by all means say “HI” but PLEASE, no treats!  Doctor’s orders!

Thanks for all your continued kind words of support and prayers. 

Kindest regards,

John Fredericks

April 9, 2005 - Jordan Suffers A Setback

Shortly after Jordan came home yesterday (following his surgery on Thursday) he suffered from what his doctors think was either a siezure or minor stroke.  He was rushed back to the LV Animal Emergency Hospital late yesterday and was monitored throughout the night by Dr. Inkstrom and her wonderful staff.  I had the chance to spend about an hour with Jordan this morning and he seems to be breathing much better and it exceptionally responsive.  However, Jordan has a long way to go.

His personal doctor, Kristine Ziegler of Sahara Pines Animal Hospital will be monitoring his condition throughout today, (Saturday) and we will make the decision later today for him to either come back home or go back to the emergency hospital for another night.

Please keep Jordan in your prayers.  He needs them now more than ever.

Sincerest regards,

John F.

April 8, 2005 - Jordan Is Out Of Surgery

Jordan "made it through the procedure with no problems," according to Dr. Jeff Geels, a Board Certified Surgeon, who was assisted by Dr. Dan Ulichny of Sahara Pines Animal Hospital.  Both Dr. Geels and Dr. Ulichny say that Jordan is now beginning the process of waking up after the anesthesia wears off and then he will be transfered to the Las Vegas Emergency Animal Hospital for monitoring throughout the night.
 
While Jordan is by no means "out of the woods," in the words of Dr. Ulichny:  "50% of the tough part is now behind us."
 
I want to thank Dr. Geels, Dr. Ulichny, the staff at Sahara Pines and the LV Emergency Animal Hospital for their continuing efforts on my boy's behalf.
 
Finally, I want to thank ALL of you who have taken the time to offer your words of comfort and support.
 
With your prayers, Jordan is starting a long, successful road to recovery.
 
God Bless You,
 
John Fredericks

April 8, 2005 - Jordan To Undergo Surgery Today

At 1:00PM today (Thursday) Jordan will undergo a three hour procedure to open a passage in his larynx.  (Jordan suffers from a condition known as “laryngeal paralysis”)  If successful, this procedure will allow Jordan to breathe more normally.

All surgery is risky.  This procedure riskier than most given its delicate nature and Jordan’s advancing years.  However, without surgery, Jordan will not likely survive another hot Las Vegas summer.  (These conditions worsen during hot weather.)   I am confident I have made the right decision to go ahead with this surgery.  Make no mistake; Jordan will be under the care of the best surgeon, doctor and surgical assistants in the area.  I also believe in the power of prayer.  Jordan needs your prayers today. 

My sweet boy has come to mean much to this community. I want to thank you for welcoming him into your homes these past 8 ½-plus years.

Finally, Jordan is also the closest thing to a son I will ever have.  Please take a moment today to say a prayer for my boy and wish him Godspeed.

Sincerely,

John Fredericks

April 4, 2005:Special Message From John Fredericks

Hi folks,

Jordan stopped breathing this past Saturday due to a condition called “laryngeal paralysis.”  Fortunately, he was with his doctor Kristine at Sahara Pines Animal Hospital.  She was able to revive him and call for a surgical consult.  It seems this condition is common among older dogs and certain breeds, including Retrievers.  I’ve included the following link with more information:

http://www.upei.ca/~cidd/Diseases/respiratory%20disorders/laryngeal%20paralysis.htm

The surgeon has recommended that Jordan undergo a procedure that will help open his larynx.  While surgery is ALWAYS risky, I am going to go ahead with the recommendation and the procedure will be performed sometime this week.

At this time, Jordan is resting comfortably and is feeling much better thanks to his doctor and the wonderful people at the Las Vegas Animal Emergency Hospital.  We are truly blessed to have so many wonderful caregivers in our area.  I can’t recommend enough the folks at Sahara Pines:  876-7580  and also (in times of emergency and overnight care)  the LV Animal Emergency Hospital.

I have never asked for anything of you.  But I must now.  If you can find it in your hearts to say a short prayer for my sweet boy I will be forever in your debt.  I am simply not ready to let him go just yet.  I believe that God still has more work for us to do together.

Kindest regards,

John Fredericks

 

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