This is my sweet boy Zeus. My husband and I rescued him in 2019 when we were called to Maricopa Humane Society by a cry of overcrowding and help needed. It was instant love and we began our journey. Zeus and I have an incredible bond. A year after his rescue, he rescued me through the sudden loss of my mom. Twenty-two months ago, on my 39th birthday, my husband, whom I’d been with since age 15, passed suddenly, and if it wasn’t for my kids, Zeus, & the grace of God, I’m not sure I’d have survived that pain to be here today.

A couple of days ago, Zeus developed the mass you see in the pictures just below his ear. I am beside myself knowing he needs surgery to have it drained and cared for and I just can’t afford it being a single mom. Like life has a funny way, of course it’s when I am behind on everything already and trying so very hard to hold it all above water. I work as a military counselor for higher education and love what I do and that my job allows me to be here for my kids. I also have been working a second job doing deliveries. Even with working 60-70 hours a week, I’m struggling to even pay the bills and necessities.

This isn’t something I’m comfortable asking for, but I have learned in recent years and through widowhood that no man or woman is an island and we all need to ask for help from time to time. All I can promise you is that I’m going to keep my faith and keep working hard, and one day when I am in the position to help others, I will pay it forward. Thank you :)