For my 60th birthday, I’m raising funds for Takis Non Profit Organisation in Crete — an incredible rescue shelter that saves abandoned, abused, and forgotten animals.

Instead of gifts, I would love your help supporting the place that is giving so many dogs and cats a second chance at life. I am also hoping to adopt a dog from Takis myself, which makes this fundraiser even more meaningful to me.

Every pound helps feed, treat, rescue, and care for the animals who have no one else.

Thank you so much for anything you can give.

Read more about why this means so much to me: Takis Shelter (Takis Non Profit Organisation) is a remarkable rescue centre in Crete, founded by one man with extraordinary dedication and compassion. Takis sold everything he owned to create a safe haven for the animals suffering on the streets — and today, he and his volunteers care for hundreds of rescued dogs and cats.

He regularly puts himself into difficult, dangerous situations to save animals in desperate need, rescuing them from mountainsides, rubbish dumps, derelict buildings, busy roads, and abusive environments. His determination is limitless, and his heart is enormous.

The volunteers at the shelter work tirelessly in all weather conditions, providing food, medical care, rehabilitation, and comfort to animals who have endured trauma, fear, and neglect. Many of these animals arrive terrified and broken — but at Takis Shelter, they finally learn what love feels like.

Takis also works closely with the local municipality to push for long-term improvements in animal welfare, including better rescue procedures, sterilisation campaigns, public education, and stronger laws.

This shelter relies entirely on donations.

There is no government funding, no financial safety net — just kindness, effort, and hope.

As part of this birthday fundraiser, I am also hoping to adopt one of the beautiful dogs from Takis Shelter and give them a loving home.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me support this incredible organisation and the animals who depend on it.