The Sacrifices We Make

Anyone who knows Dr. Z either personally knows, or has certainly heard about Neffie. Anyone who has had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Z's home has met Neffie and no doubt bonded with her! They would have had no choice because of her welcoming, loving, and compassionate spirit. The bond that she has created on her own, beyond our family, and the testimonies, and stories about those bonds are nothing short of phenomenal. Why? Because Neffie isn't your ordinary dog; nor is she a pet. She is a friend and a companion, who both loves, and is loved deeply. Last night and the night before last our family, which includes us and each of you, was faced with THE most sorrowful news that forced us to get up in the middle of the night and travel to Richmond, VA. That news was that Neffie had a mass on her heart that was leaking fluid and causing her extreme distress. On the first night, we had the fluid drained. The next day the fluid returned. Last night, we were faced with the decision of having to let Neffie go, so that she wouldn't suffer any longer. Anyone who loves knows that this decision is inexplicable. My mother chose to drain the fluid, once again, in order to give Neffie the days that were needed to allow her family and friends to gather around her.

We planned an incredible going away party for this upcoming Saturday, because we thought there was nothing else that can be done. However, this morning we got a call from Neffie’s cardiologist who was informed about our decision. Like us, they feel Neffie’s spirit, and love her after meeting her only once. For that reason, they wanted to offer an option that would save Neffie and give her more time to spread her love. Regrettably, medicine is still a business, and the surgeons have to get paid.

Anyone who knows and/or is a part of our family knows that Neffie is not just a pet; she is family. Anyone who has seen the bond between my mother and Neffie know that they have gone, and will continue to go, to the wire for each other. Anyone who knows my mother knows that she has fought for and sacrificed for strangers, associates, friends, and would die for her loved ones. If you know my mother; if you love my mother; if you know Neffie; if you love Neffie; if Neffie has ever touched you in anyway; we are opening this platform to accept your support, because Lord knows we're going to need it as we fight for Neffie to see another day. The procedure is called a Pericardiectomy and it will stop the fluid from building around and putting pressure on Neffie’s heart. Most importantly, it will save her life. We are a struggling family, but we are willing to make the ultimate sacrifices and we appreciate any sacrifices you will be willing to make to support my mother, our family, and Nefertiti.

 Anyone who knows my mother knows that she gives endlessly to everyone without ever asking or expecting anything in return. To see how broken she is from Neffie’s illness- not even wanting to come in the house, and come up the steps to her own bed. To see her break down and hear her asking, "What am I going to do without Neffie? I don't even want to be in this home without her," made it very clear what sacrifices need to be made to return all of the love and dedication that she has given to us all 'unapologetically.' I am hoping that you can find it in your heart to breathe life into a woman who has willingly done so for us all. We appreciate any donation that you can give, in advance. With love!