Epic Vanda Spike Fail?

[birdwomn]

A few months ago, I got my first Vanda - a rescue from Lowe's and asked your advice about it after I dunked it (because I didn't know any better) because it was so dried out.

Well, it recovered nicely thanks to your advice and was growing roots like crazy and a few weeks ago, I saw what I thought was a spike. I was so excited! I could not wait to see the blooms in a few months and have been very careful to watch for thrips and other pests each day.

Now, it looks like the spike has died.

Can anyone provide information or advice as to what may have happened and how to avoid this again?

I am very new to this and am learning as I go - so feel free to correct any ignorance I may be displaying here.