Many times I have done what you are doing right now and everything ended up so totally different than what I had feared. We can all tell you to slow down and try to think only of the moment, but I understand how you are feeling.
I have never had a dog with a handicap like that, so I cannot share personal experience. I am sure someone else will be able to.
I just found the following website and the story about Cody touched my heart...perhaps it might help you right now.
http://http://handicappedpets.com/ww...paralysis.html
Oh...and they also have a forum...you might get some good information there!