07/27/2026
Hi Friends ~ I wanted to share an update on Pepper’s rollercoaster of a cancer (osteosarcoma) journey. If you are going through something similar, know that you are not alone. 🤍
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Recently, Pepper had 2 episodes where she collapsed. The first time was after she did a big zoomie around the yard—the pure joy on her face as she ran will forever be etched in my memory. The episode lasted less than a minute and afterwards she acted like nothing happened.
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The second time happened while we were on a walk and she reacted to a dog barking at her. This time when she collapsed it appeared that she stopped breathing. I thought she died as I scooped her off the sidewalk. She came out of it as I carried her home. (Cue: Hannele spirals…)
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We met with her oncologist and the good news is that the cancer has not metastasized to her organs, which is what I assumed. The cancer has begun to metastasize throughout her skin, which is rare but not super impactful on her wellbeing.
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The bad news is that she has a worsening heart condition–cardiac arrhythmia. Apparently the episodes are triggered by energy spikes but our doctor assured us that they are not traumatic/painful for her. There is a chance of sudden death and the only “treatment” is to try to keep her calm. So the trait that most makes Pepper, Pepper, could ultimately kill her.
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The only comfort in this news is that if she does die from one of these episodes, at least she’ll most likely be doing something she loves when it happens and won’t feel any pain. 😭
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Throughout it all, Pepper has mostly been her joyful self. She continues to follow me everywhere, plays with her toys and demands only the best. She lives in the present and I am doing my best to stay there with her.
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None of this has been easy but it has been an honor to walk her through it with love, compassion and all of her favorite things. And we will continue to, til the very end. 💔
