Letter1

04 November 2007

Dr. Robert Ferran, DVM
Ludlam Dixie Animal Clinic
8271 S. Dixie Hwy
Miami, FL 33143

Dear Dr. Ferran ,
Subject. Pax - The Journey

Words can not begin to express my heartfelt thanks for your professional efforts in treating my faithful Doberman companion of more than 10 years - Pax - for Wobblers. The application of Gold Bead Implants has given her a quality of life that would not have been possible otherwise. Her advanced age coupled with her stoic personality simply would not have survived the conventional surgical option discussed with her Neurologist.

In point of fact, it was the Neurologist's assistant who suggested GBI as an alternative. I confess, I had never heard of the procedure so I started Googling away and came across your web site and read with great interest. I'll never forget the angst I felt when 1'cold called' your office and talked to Juan. He was so sincere and gracious with his time - what a wonderful young man. He encouraged me to send the MR I's and radiographs for your review to see if Pax was a GBI candidate.

As you know, Pax's case was complicated because she not only had Wobbler's but was also diagnosed with severe left-hock swelling and, spondylosis deforms. And, the meds she was on were not good - 40mg of Pred daily. I was extremely impressed with the deliberative measures you took before rendering a recommendation - to include conferring with other colleagues.

But, you were confident she was a GBI candidate - so off to Miami we went within 3 weeks of my cold call - very impressive response time. You are truly a credit to your profession.

The rest is history. When we arrived in Miami in April, 2007 Pax could barely walk, could not urinate without assistance and, in general, was morose. And, in your thorough preliminary examination, you had the foresight to test her thyroid only to discover she was hypothyroid - a condition that escaped notice by my vet or, the neurologist.

As you educated me, the procedure was non-invasive and it went without a hitch. Approximately 93 gold beads were inserted in 3 areas of her body. My Pax left your office at the end of the day mostly alert and ready to go home Over the following months I saw gradual improvement and you graciously encouraged subsequent return visits for gratis rechecks to ensure progress was being made - and it was Further, over this same period, we managed to reduce her Pied (with your guidance) to 5mg every other day supplemented instead by homeopathic remedies. YEAH !

During this period - and to this day - you and your office (particularly Juan) have been with me every step of the way - whether it is phone or email. And, my vet and the diagnosing neurologist continue to be supportive and, professionally curious, as well. All of which you strongly encouraged.

As a real testament to the success of this journey, Pax was just starting to trot about 2 weeks ago when she fell victim to GDV (Bloat). Oh yes, GDV. No particular reason that this occurred. In any event, I rushed her to FVS where they performed emergency surgery and in the process they had to remove a small portion of her stomach. She was in ICU for 3 days and when she was discharged she had lost 14 pounds, she couldn't walk and, she couldn't urinate/defecate/eat on her own. That was a week ago.

As I pen this your way, my dear Pax is once again enjoying her backyard (although somewhat limited until sutures are removed this week). Miraculously, she's urinating on her own - which is quite a feat since she's a real low squatter and, she's not losing her balance. For the most part, she can get up by herself although we're not where we were at pre-GDV. However, I remain confident this is only a matter of rehab and strengthening the rear leg muscles. Further, I no longer have to syringe-feed her but I am feeding her at least 4x a day to put on some pounds. You should feel very proud of your achievements with Pax after this unexpected GDV setback because she's a most difficult patient.

Again, words are just not adequate to express my thanks for all you have done. I feel very fortunate to have made your professional acquaintance and t would not hesitate (and in fact I already have) recommended you to others. The trip to Miami is worth it to obtain your professional guidance and to observe your contagious passion and dedication in your chosen profession_ Your mission is noble and is -first and foremost -in the best interest of my Pax. I'm forever indebted to you for this service.

We look forward to our visit in the Spring of 2008 for our next check-up.

Best Regards Always,

Nancy Browning
2993 Buxton Ct.
Clearwater, FL 33761-1902
(813) 453-1514
(727) 785-0618