Medical Update

Berwyn, Illinois, USA

Erickson’s Chief of Staff Recovering

After extensive medical tests including an echocardiogram, EKG’s and blood tests, the Burr Ridge Veterinary Clinic and the cardiologists at Animal Medical Center
in New York determined that Joe Cocker’s abnormal heart rhythm was common in Cocker Spaniels of his age. They felt that no heart medications were required and
that his heart was pumping efficiently at this time. Therefore a pacemaker is unnecessary. We will continue to monitor his heart rhythms on a regular basis to watch for any changes in this status.

Joe still continues to suffer some arthritis in his neck and right front leg.
Non steroid medication such as Rimdyl or aspirin was considered as well as cortisone treatments. Since all of these medications can have unpleasant long term side
effects, his doctors suggested a holistic approach to this common problem of old age. They prescribed a Chinese herbal formula “Du Huo Sheng Tang”. This formula is quite ancient and has had beneficial effects on back, knee and neck pain in both humans
and animals. His doctors said that approximately 80% of the animals that took these herbs on a regular basis had significant lessening of arthritic pain, an overall increase
in energy levels and an increase in appetite within 3-4 weeks after they began treatment.

Joe began taking 2 capsules of herbs with each meal (4 per day). Within a week, his arthritis improved significantly and he became more active. His appetitive also improved. He began to clean his food bowl and returned to his old habits of
giving us soulful and longing looks while we ate our meals. To date he has been
taking the Chinese herbs for 3 months and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Although he is still an “old man”, he is a much happier and more comfortable old man.

Thanks to all of you who emailed and called me with your best wishes. Joe
will be back on the campaign trail soon.