The big lug has been gone a year now. And like a forest after a catastrophic fire, our hearts are starting to heal and sprout new life. But it’s hard to believe Banjo died 365 days ago. Time flies when you’re trying to get by.
All I remember is that it was another rough day for him. My wife and kids were out of town and he had another vicious attack of pancreatitis during the night. (he’d worry and not eat, aggravating his diabetes and causing the attacks). I had him at the vet at 5:30 a.m. and he rallied just long enough to see his family one more time. But by evening he had gone back down hill and was whimpering from the pain. Even narcotic pain medication couldn’t bring him relief. We had to make the hardest decision we’ve ever had to make. He went to sleep one last time in my wife’s arms.
It was around 11:30 at night and the little brown dog with the big will to live was gone.
And at that moment, another little brown dog who would heal us was being born in Delaware. They passed on the Rainbow Bridge (He died at the same time she was born but on different days.Time zones are funny like that.)
Banjo was a rescue dog. We were his third and forever home. And because of it, he had a level of appreciation that couldn’t be matched. I’ve never seen an animal or human with his fierce spirit. His strong will to live will never be matched. He motivated me to get moving and chase my dreams.
Today I’ll honor his life by working on a book dedicated to that spirit. Banjo’s Dream will be out this fall — I hope it captures his incredible love of life.
I owe it to him. I owe it to my ‘Jo.
Marshall. I feel your pain. My 17 y/o toy poodle went to Dog Heaven August of last year. The night before Pucky died, I stayed up all night with him laying on my chest. I still cry when I think of him and how much I miss him; but, I also smile when I recall what a good friend he was… and really, still is. He and I went through a lot together!!! I had him cremated and have a small shrine for him at my home. I’ll be looking for your book. Maybe you’ll have a book signing here in Oxford at Square Books! I’ll bring Pucky! :)
Georgia
What a sweet tribute.
Every time I read you writing about Banjo, I physically can feel the pain, knowing what it is like to lose such an important member of the family. We have 3 joys in our life and the reality that our short time with them will come some day is sobering. I realize how important animals are to us, and while many only regard them as such, mine have always been very close to my heart – and the hearts of my family members too.
Looking forward to getting my second Marshall Ramsey book during the Thanksgiving break, and knowing that Banjo’s second family is growing each time someone reads your book.