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Fuchs' Corneal Dystrophy

Fuchs' Dystrophy isn't well-known, since only about 1% of people have it, and you and I were a couple of the "lucky" ones! Yes, it's an eye DISEASE, and needs to be monitored accordingly. When you have fuchs' dystrophy the cells in an inner layer of the cornea called the "endothelium" start dying off (sometimes this disease is called "Endothelial Dystrophy").
The only real cure for the disease is a cornea transplant. If the disease isn't very far advanced you can get temporary relief, under the care of an eye professional, by using muro eyedrops. However, it isn't going to go away by itself. It's possible it may never progress very far; it's also JUST as possible that it may take a sudden nosedive leaving you almost blind literally overnight. Sometimes the disease will progress to the point where painful blisters will burst on the surface of the cornea, scarring the tissue.

Happy Valentine's Day to all my Flickr friends.

Humane society of the White Mountains Meet Diesel, the dog with a heart the size of a diesel truck. Diesel was run over and his owners could not afford to take him to the vet so they brought him to us at HSWM and gave him to us, expecting him to die. In spite of what had to be tremendous pain, even then Diesel was a loving, happy dog whose big heart shone through the incredible pain he had to be feeling. After x-rays and other tests it was determined that, although his injuries are very serious, with surgery Diesel can make a full recovery.

Diesel has a strong will to live, with a happy cheerful demeanor even when he is in great pain. Given his young age and the prognosis, the decision was made to allow Diesel this second chance at life. Diesel has several breaks in his pelvis and he will need surgery on his back and dislocated leg. His surgery will cost between $4,000-$5,000. Diesel needs your help, please. If you can donate anything to help pay for expected surgery costs it is GREATLY appreciated! We will accept Paypal donations (see link below), you can mail a check to HSWM PO Box 909 Lakeside, AZ 85929 (please note Diesel surgery on check) or you can bring a donation by the shelter. We have a donation canister just for Diesel’s surgery.

Diesel is now in his second foster home, his first was with a vet tech while he had his catheter and needed special watching. He is recovering and will have surgery in around 2 weeks. Diesel continues to take it easy and let the pelvis bone heal, as he prepares for his leg surgery. Diesel’s heart is big and he continues on with life, he is a big sweetheart and is always happy and loving!

Folks- if any of you can help at all, it is greatly appreciated. Anything will help. Look at our home page, top right hand side - Donations for Diesel, link goes straight to separate fund for Diesel's surgery. www.hswm.org/index.html#Diesel