On 6 December, Debbie writes:

Thank you so much for once again supporting North Carolina Airedale Rescue. I am humbled by the generosity of the Airedale Community.

I wanted to share with all of you the treatment plan for Kellie as it stands today. She is scheduled for her consult and pre-op with the Cardiologist team at North Carolina State Veterinary Hospital on Wednesday morning (12/8/10). We will meet with the surgeon and a fourth-year medical student.

After an initial exam and discussion of her medical history (which shouldn't take me very long), Kellie will undergo a series of tests that will be determined that morning. I know that they want to repeat the echo that she just had last week. Kellie will be spending the rest of the day in the cardiology lab.

I have another appointment set up for later Wednesday afternoon when the doctors will present to me their suggestions for treating Kellie's PDA.

There are two options for surgery. The first requires opening her chest and closing the open duct with sutures. The other is less invasive and more technical and somehow plugs up the duct so that the blood is able to flow in the proper direction. We are hoping that she is a candidate for the less invasive procedure.

Regardless of which surgery is to be performed, it has been tentatively scheduled for Thursday morning (12/9/10). Let's keep our fingers crossed that everything goes well on Wednesday and Kellie has her surgery on Thursday morning.

Be looking for a quick update on Wednesday evening just to let you know her status.

Thank you again for your prayers & support, but most importantly, Kellie thanks you for the gift of life. It does take a village to save an Airedale.

On 7 December, Debbie writes:

As you can see by checking the Fundraiser Thermometer below, we have well exceeded our goal for Kellie's surgery. IF there are funds left over after Kellie's complete treatment, they will be used to help other Airedales in need; our need is always very great.

What a wonderful blessing & testament to the nature of terrier people. Please contiue watching this site for updates on Kellie's treatment & recuperation.