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What started as a routine visit to the vet for bad breath turned into a heart-wrenching revelation for Kermie’s devoted family. This 11-year-old Lab-Beagle-Chow Chow mix, cherished by Eric Ralston, a dedicated principal hospital corpsman in the US Navy, received the devastating diagnosis of oral carcinoma.
The dire prognosis painted a grim picture, giving Kermie a mere two to three months to live. The news shattered her family, who couldn’t imagine life without their beloved canine companion. Little did they know that Kermie had her own plans, and she was determined not to bid farewell until her cherished owner returned from his demanding nine-month deployment.
Eric Ralston had been deployed overseas in March, leaving behind his loving family, including Kermie. As Kermie’s concerning bad breath raised alarm bells, Eric’s wife rushed her to the vet for an examination. The diagnosis of cancer brought tears and heartbreak, especially because Kermie held a special place as their first “fur child.” They couldn’t bear the thought of Eric missing the chance to see her once more.
As weeks turned into months, something remarkable happened—Kermie defied the odds and continued to thrive. Three months turned into several, and a glimmer of hope began to shine within the Ralston family. With Eric’s deployment drawing to a close, they dared to dream that Kermie might just get the chance to reunite with her beloved owner.
However, just 12 days before Eric’s eagerly anticipated return home, his deployment was unexpectedly extended, shattering their hopes. The approaching holiday season only intensified their worries, with Christmas on the horizon and Kermie’s condition remaining uncertain. Nevertheless, Kermie displayed an incredible determination to hold on until she could see Eric once more.
Then, like a Christmas miracle sent from above, Eric’s homecoming arrived earlier than expected. Kermie, adorned with a festive red bow, dashed from the house and leaped into Eric’s loving arms. The reunion worked wonders for Kermie, who had been on her last leg. Eric’s presence acted as a magical elixir, reigniting her appetite and zest for life.
Jennifer Ralston, Kermie’s human mom, expressed, “His return was some kind of magic lozenge for her.” The once-struggling Kermie now ate and drank without difficulty, savoring every joyful moment with Eric by her side. In January, Kermie celebrated her 12th birthday, a testament to her indomitable spirit.
However, February brought a heartbreaking turn of events. The good days became fleeting, and the Ralston family knew it was time to make an agonizing decision. On February 22nd, surrounded by Eric and her loving family, Kermie lost her battle with cancer.
Kermie’s story stands as a poignant reminder of the deep bond between humans and their canine companions. It illustrates the remarkable resilience and unwavering love that dogs bring into our lives. While Kermie’s battle may have come to an end, her legacy of love and determination lives on, serving as a powerful testament to the unbreakable bond between pets and their devoted owners.
Please share this heartwarming tale with your friends to celebrate Kermie’s life and to honor the enduring and powerful bond that exists between dogs and their human companions.
