Help After a Tragic Week

On October 9th, my world turned upside down. My five-month-old kitten, Asher, was found barely able to move, his face swollen, his gums blue, and his body cold and weak. Just hours earlier, he had been his usual playful, curious self, chasing toys and climbing anything he could reach.

He was rushed to Cornell Univesity Hospital for Animals' ER, where the incredible team worked tirelessly to save him. After extensive testing, they discovered acetaminophen toxicity, caused by ingesting an extra strength Tylenol pill that had somehow fallen somewhere in the house while I was at work. Despite immediate treatment and days in the ICU, Asher’s condition took a sudden and devastating turn. After showing signs of recovery and nearly making it home, he passed away unexpectedly after about 36 hours in intensive care. The leading theory is that he threw a clot, something no one could have prevented.

While reeling from losing Asher, tragedy struck again. Our other kitten, Toulouse (Ashers orange cat bonded brother), suddenly began showing symptoms that brought us right back to the ER, the same place where we had just said goodbye to Asher. After tests and imaging, it was discovered that Toulouse had a gastrointestinal obstruction that required emergency surgery. He made it through the procedure, recovered in the ICU, and is now thankfully back home recovering for the next 2-3 weeks.

The financial burden of two back-to-back emergencies and ICU stays is overwhelming. Veterinary bills were originally expected to exceed fifteen thousand dollars, but with the help and compassion of Cornell and all of the people who have given what they can, we now are able to cover a substantial amount of the costs. Unfortunately, we still need support if anyone is able.

We are heartbroken, but also deeply, deeply grateful for every donation, message, and act of kindness that has helped carry us through this unbearable week. The outpouring of love for Asher and now for Toulouse has been beyond words.

If you are able to help us continue caring for Toulouse and covering these mounting medical costs, we would be endlessly thankful. Even a share or a kind word makes a difference.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for loving our boys with us, for mourning Asher, and for helping give Toulouse his chance to heal. ❤️