8 years ago I took Simon on an uneventful morning walk. When we returned home, with absolutely no catalyst, he spontaneously herniated a disc in his spine that caused immediate paralysis of his back end. The only indicator that he was in pain was that he held his chin up just a little- which I noticed with curiosity. It wasn’t until he tried to follow me, dragged his legs behind him that I realized he was in trouble. His amazing vet and surgical teams confirmed that is was in an extraordinary amount of pain, but was being ‘very stoic’ so I wouldn’t be afraid. The drive to his surgeon felt endless. It was the first time he wasn’t riding on my lap. Worried this may be my last few moments with him, I decided to take this photo- and every time I look at it I see how very much he loved me to hold back his agony to keep me calm. The hospital told me that most people would justifiably consider putting him to sleep, since his chances were slim of surviving emergency neurosurgery, much less any substantial recovery. They warned me about the incredible amount of work he would require from me if he survived. He was only three. His story was not finished yet. I told them that as long as he can maintain his quality of life, I would do whatever it takes to keep him by my side. The strength, bravery, and perseverance Simon used to fight through his recovery, his amazing ability to defy the odds, and his refusal to accept limitations were inspiring. I was so proud of his spirit, and continued to be amazed by what he could accomplish in a wheelchair, a stroller, on all four legs, and even with only two. He didn’t just survive the 7 years following his surgery- he thrived. Happy Anniversary, my best boy. I hope you spend this heavenly day running, jumping, and playing even harder in celebration❤️🐾 #frenchbulldog #frenchie #ivddsurvivor #ivddawareness #ivdddog #bestdogever https://www.instagram.com/p/CG-D6pGDadh/?igshid=11gpb47613v7g