Our sweet boy Jax passed away at 6:30 pm on August 6th, 2025, after a brave fight following emergency surgery to remove a large, tumor on his spleen. After abnormal on Monday morning we rushed him to the vet where we were met with the devastating news. Surgery was his only chance, and he made it through. For a few precious days, we had hope in some really special recovery moments, despite complications with his heart and 2 heartbreaking seizures, there were periods he lifted his head, wagged his tail, we cuddled a ton, he responded to his favorite nick names and even took walks a few short walks around the hospital. But Wednesday afternoon his body experienced a rapid decline unlike anything we had seen. Despite every effort from the veterinary team, his body just couldn’t keep up.

I wouldn’t have gotten through this without the love and support of friends, family, and the incredible staff at BluePearl in Phoenix. Dr. Jackson, Dr. Santi, Dr. Hewitt, Sierra, Zoe, Honesty, Abby, Dani, Eli—so many people showed up for us. They didn’t just treat Jax, they cared for him like he was one of their own. They walked him, wrapped him in blankets, updated me constantly, and held space for me in this truly difficult time. I’ve lost a pet before and didn’t feel this kind of care. This time, even in all the heartbreak, I felt surrounded by compassion and grace.

There were many complex factors in Jax’s case, and while we don’t have all the answers, I know he was given a fighting chance. This loss has been soul shattering. Jax was my best friend, my protector, my shadow. He loved bigger than any creature I’ve ever known. He changed my life. It’s hard to find the words for this kind of grief, but the messages, memories, and love people have shared have meant everything.

I’m continuing this fundraiser to help cover the costs of Jax’s surgery and intensive care. We were all in on giving him every possible shot at recovery, and while we didn’t get the outcome we prayed for, he was surrounded by love every step of the way. If you’ve already donated—thank you. If you’re just finding this page and feel moved to give, we’re grateful for any amount. Even $5 helps us work toward covering his care.

Social media and the news often do a good job of isolating us, of making us feel hopeless but this experience reminded me of the opposite. People DO show up. Love is real. And Jax is proof of that. The best thing anyone can do right now is continue to love him in your memories. Share your favorite photos. Tell your favorite Jax story. That’s how he stays alive, in us

Thank you for being part of his story.

With all my love,

Zayla.