How can a dog that I will never meet, and people that I do not know in person manage to touch my heart so deeply? It is a testimate to the strength of Miss Nellie that her life and her passing have had such a profound effect on so many people. We are all on this earth for a reason, and maybe Miss Nellie's reason was to involve all of us in her fight against this disease. Perhaps we will all fight just a little bit harder to help find a cure after following the journey of Miss Nellie. Maybe each of us will hold our own hounds a little bit closer tonight and give thanks for every day we have with them. Maybe when we have to face the unthinkable, we will remember the strength and courage that Miss Nellie and her family showed in their battle.
Brian and Suzie you have also been couragous. You gave Miss Nellie the benefit of having tried everything there was to try. You can take comfort in the knowledge that you and Dr. Couto gave it your all. Sometimes though, there is not enough that can be done here on earth, and we have to make the most difficult of decisions. She knew how much you loved her. She will never be forgotten.
Run free Miss Nellie. There is a special spot reserved just for you at the bridge.
Cello