Dr. Becky Bosetski, Bernice burned kitty’s doctor and special person, writes a note highlighting Bernice’s wonderful spirit and strong will to live, and the good progress she has made. Dr. Becky also cautions supporters that one result of the heaing process may lead to problems down the road.
Dr. Becky posted a note today for Bernice’s supporters, many of whom ask for frequent updates on the cat who garnered widespread attention after she was found severely burned on a street in Oshkosh WI one day this summer and became the ward of the Oshkosh Humane Society and a patient at the Animal Hospital of Oshkosh. First, it was the severity of the injuries and the sadness of the case that attracted people; then it was Bernice’s fighting spirit and the spark that shines through her eyes.
In the most hopeful portion of Dr. Becky’s note, she says ” Bernice seems to be very comfortable and happy. This morning as we were having our regular nose-bumping ritual, she was so excited that I ended up with as much of her burn cream on my face as she did!! Bernice is a fighter like I’ve never seen, and I truly believe that she is in this with us, telling me everyday that her will live to live is strong. In all reality, it is a miracle that she has survived what she has, and I am praying that she continues to do well.”
Br. Becky informs us that Bernice shows that strong will to live and improve that we have heard about, and which is evident in the remarkable progress she has made in a few short week. She says that the healing is noticeably visible as Bernice’s skin changes from day to day. To answer a question many have asked, she says that Bernice’s fur will likely not grow back over large burned areas. Photos show that is is already growing back in other areas, though.
The situation that may become problematic concerns the scars where the burns were. The scars are expected to shrink through the healing process, pulling tight, and since they cover a large area, that may impede Bernice’s mobility. There are already small signs of this when Bernice walks, but the situation has not worsened in recent days, and that’s a good sign. The matter is one of watch and wait, rather one of inevitability, and it is hoped that it will not affect Bernice’s quality of life in the future. Two surgeons have been consulted on whether surgical procedures will be necessary or even possible and all agree that the best course is to continue to observe Bernice and give it time before considering any decision to have surgery. Dr. Becky will consider what is best for Bernice. She says ” If it becomes evident that extensive surgeries must be done in order to ensure good quality of life, we will have to take into consideration what is fair to expect her to go through.”
In closing, Dr. Becky says ” We are always keeping in mind what is best for her, staying objective in our treatment plan, as difficult as that can be. She has a very special place in my heart, and in the hearts of so many. Regardless of the outcome of her case, I believe her story has taught us all immeasurable lessons.”
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