Koopa seems to be on the decline. 
He still won’t eat and now he’s refusing to drink water as well. He only leaves his box when I check on him to see if he’s still alive. Yesterday we had some nice weather so I took him outside to get some sun. All he wanted to do was find some shade so he could sleep.
The blood test results aren’t back yet…I’ll call on Monday if I don’t hear from the vet by then. I don’t know what else I can do. At this point I’m thinking there must be some major organ malfunction. I’m malfunctioning as well, mentally and emotionally. It’s so hard to see him like this and I’m already mourning the Koopa that used to chase me around and beg for my affection. I am no longer able to be optimistic about the situation.
I’ve listed another of my paintings tonight, “Papillion.” It’s an odd painting, and I have no words to describe how it came to life on the canvas. I am hesitant to list anything right now. I fear that my art won’t speak to anyone, and that I’ve ruined my potential as an artist by focusing on Koopa for so long. He’s accomplished a lot more than I could ever hope to. Unfortunately, I’ve got bills to pay and that trumps my fear of failure.
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I’m so sad. I’m starting over as an artist without a following, destined to be lost in an endless sea of listings on eBay…and I’m starting at a bad time. What a lousy blog this is turning out to be.
I'm an Internet-based (anxiety-ridden) abstract artist residing in Connecticut. I'm best known for my breast paintings, which I've been offering sporadically since 2001. You may also be familiar with my work with Koopa, the world's 1st professional painting turtle (now enjoying early retirement.) I'm currently spending lots of time creating photographs, beaded jewelry and poetry too! Check out some of the links on the top and sidebar, read some back posts, wander over to www.turtlekiss.com, and be sure to leave a comment if you have anything to add. Thanks for visiting!
1 Comment
04/06/2008 at 3:44 AM
Kira,
I’m so sorry that Koopa’s blood test results weren’t good. From what I’ve read and heard, cancer isn’t very common in turtles; and when it does occur, it’s usually in the extremities. My guess is that Koopa’s organs are simply wearing down. Although it’s not known for certain exactly how old he is, in his pictures he appears to be a “senior citizen” in the turtle world. You mentioned that you’re his third owner. He’s fortunate to have found his way to you. You’ve provided him with a wonderful life, filled with fun and activity. He has achieved fame and made friends all over the world. But most importantly, you’ve given him love.
In my 30 years of living with turtles, I’ve gone through what you’re experiencing now several times…the vet visits, the tests, the hope, and the tears. My thoughts are with you and Koopa during this difficult time. Please take care of yourself and him, and know that there are so many of us who are praying for both of you.
Ginger