Hello friends, family, and maybe strangers.

Thirteen years ago I walked into the Carson Animal shelter in hopes of finding a dog for my mom. I was going off to college and was the last to leave the nest, so I thought finding her a companion would help during the transition.

As I walked through rows and rows of dogs who needed a home I felt instantly overwhelmed and saddened, until I came upon a little pup perched on the gate jumping around for my attention. I felt an instant pull to him and thought "how is it possible this little guy is in here?" I walked up to the counter and asked about him, expecting them to say there was a long waitlist that was fully booked up. However, the attendant looked at me and said: "Actually the first in line never came to pick him up and the backups didn't either, if you want him you can take him today". At that moment, what turned into a search for my mom ended up with me as a dog mom, and ever since that moment Bandit and I have spent the last 13 years together.

After 13 healthy years together Bandit was diagnosed with a liver mass (cavitated carcinoma). The mass thankfully is located at the bottom left-hand side of his liver, where doctors believe we can have a successful removal that will lead to hopefully, great quality of life if everything goes as planned.

The cost of the surgery will be quite high but I feel the need to do everything possible to save my sweet baby.

Bandit came into my life and helped me cope with more than my anxiety, he brought me happiness in ways I never expected. He opened my heart to love and connection that does not require words but proves itself in actions. He is my whole heart and I just can't put a price on that love. I know in my heart I need to try and go down every avenue to try and help my boy.

At the moment I feel lost, helpless, and out of control, but mostly embarrassed I can't carry the burden of this alone. I wouldn't take this route if I didn't think this surgery was absolutely the best path to take.

Please know that I do not take this plea for help lightly, I wish I were in a place in life where the cost would not be an issue. I wish I could fix this without needing to ask for help, but like so many things in life sometimes you need to ask for help when you truly need it. Right now, I find myself in that place.

I truly appreciate all of you taking the time to read through this, and know that I am forever in debt to your empathy, kindness, and prayers.

Love,

Grace and Bandit