Carlos has the same sudden swelling.  We opted for exploratory surgery too.
Cancer had riddled his poor body, it became noticeable almost overnight - a
golf-ball sized lump, and I opted to put him to sleep while he was under the
anaesthetic.  It troubles me I couldn't be with him when he crossed the
Rainbow Bridge, but I know it was for the best.
 
Good luck to you and Emma - think positive thoughts - that other 90% of our
brains might actually be capable of doing something for us.
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Calgary, Alberta Canada
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The Terrible Two and the Kitty Krew
[Posted in FML issue 1266]