Please Help Us Save Lila — Our Soul Dog, Our Family

There are dogs… and then there are once-in-a-lifetime dogs.

Lila is that dog.

Recently, Lila was diagnosed with thyroid cancer that has spread to a nearby lymph node, forming a second tumor. The news shattered us. But after meeting with her oncologist, we were given something we didn’t expect—hope.

Her cancer has not spread beyond those areas. It is localized, and she is a strong candidate for surgery. Both her oncologist and ourselves truly believe she has a very real chance at more healthy, happy years after having the tumors removed. Even now, she continues to show up with the same beautiful puppy-like energy and spirit that has always defined her: bubbly, bright, sweet, loving, gentle…

I know not everyone understands choosing to take on a financial burden like this for a pet. But if you’ve ever loved an animal deeply, or if you’ve ever met Lila, you understand.

Lila is not “just a dog.”

She is my soul dog.

We are intertwined in a way that’s hard to explain unless you’ve felt it. She came into my life during one of my darkest times and saved me. She brought light back into places that felt permanently dim. She brought warmth back into places that felt cold. She gave me joy when I didn’t think I’d feel it again. She gave and still gives me unconditional love, constant companionship, and a reason to keep going. She is and has been my constant, my comfort, my home.

I have been her mom for 13 years.

And I will not give up on her now…especially when she is showing us, in every way, that she is still strong, still fighting, and still has life left to live.

Those of us who are pet parents know: they are our babies.

We care for them, protect them, nurture them, and love them endlessly. They depend on us. And we would do anything for them, just as they would for us.

There is something deeply profound about being loved by an animal.

Lila is that kind of love.

We are doing everything we can on our end…praying, saving, and preparing, but the cost of surgery is significant. So I am asking, from the most vulnerable place in my heart:

If this resonates with you, if you’ve ever loved a pet like family, or if you simply feel called to help—please consider donating.

No amount is too small. Truly. Every single contribution brings us one step closer to giving Lila the chance she deserves.

And if you’re unable to donate, sharing this means just as much.

Thank you for taking the time to read Lila’s story, for your kindness, your support, and your prayers.

Please help us give our girl more time.

— Nicole, Michael & Lila