Heart disease is the second largest killer of dogs, with cancer heading the list. While some cardiac conditions can be managed successfully with medication and diet, some require surgery. The one area that has remained dark until the last few years is the area of open-heart bypass surgery. Consequently, mitral valve degenerative disease, the most important cause of heart disease in veterinary practice, has prematurely been claiming the lives of tens of thousands of dogs every year. This is the story of a small dog, Carmel, who underwent open-heart bypass surgery in October 2001 and is now one of 10-15 dogs in the world to survive and recover from this type of surgery. This account follows Carmel from the discovery of her heart failure, through the surgery, and down a road to recovery that is as harrowing as the surgery itself. The author also shares her emotional and spiritual journey as she is forced to explore the depths of her own commitment to love and life. That commitment ultimately conquers every obstacle science, common veterinary mentality, outside opinion, and fear throws her way.