HLM,
First let me tell you was pretty shocked to find out that the at home euthanasia was cheaper than doing it at the vet (not that I cared, I just wanted to do it at home)
Second yes, I have many difficult health diagnosis. I have had fibro since before it was re-named from fibrositis - some 25+ years ago. Then I fell off of a ladder and about 5% of people who injure a limb, will be diagnosed with a neurological disease for which there is no treatment, no cure. Mine was a crushed wrist. This lead to the diagnosis of this disorder: CRPS or Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome. It is the MS of the nervous system, systematically destroying the nerves beginning with the nerve endings of the effected limb and spreading throughout the body. I ALWAYS like to explain this disease so that people understand that you can acquire it from even a muscle strain, 5% of people and after a lot of research found that an 81 mg regimen of sprain can greatly reduce your chance of acquiring it. With the diagnosis you are automatically given SSDI because with all the pain and breakdowns in the body through the nervous system, it is plainly stated as "Will never work again". Along with the fibro, the CRPS I've had a heart attack, a stroke, I have a frozen shoulder - they can't let it UN-freeze because it would just dislocate out the back (talk to your local football player about the pain of dislocation. I have broken fingers that the surgeon completely missed in the long extensive surgery to repair my wrist ( I was ex-ray of the day the day I broke it = the most screwed up one the techs saw on that day) Muscle cramping, well there is just too much to go on as the list of symptoms for the CRPS are 4 pages long. Ain't I a lucky duck.
Because of my health issues, Dr's have said from (especially CRPS) that the last thing I need in my life is stress because it is going to cause my whole body to flare in pain. This is why my therapist agrees with NC with my difficult child. My body just isn't up for the stress of the games she plays and it takes a huge toll on my body. Also this is why I loved and snuggled my little fur-baby, he was always there for me, demanding nothing. It's like the two of us, broken, found each other. To me he is irreplaceable, he was the sweetest dog, the best temperament and just wanted love which we were able to provide for him in spades. That's why it is so heartbreaking to have to put him down. (he was bleeding internally) Even when you are doing your best by your best buddy in the world it sucks the big one!
Romeo sure helped me deal with the isolation of being Chronically ill. Yes I have my wonderful husband who I can honestly say, unlike some other male turds, instead of abandoning me, has been the best caregiver in the world. (Yes he is MY Saint) Still Romeo stayed by my side (even the long bedridden days) - what a hero and the best fur-companion ever!