Hello dear friends, fellow animal lovers, and kind souls,

I never thought I’d find myself here, reaching out with trembling hands, but love drives us to do everything possible for those who depend on us, especially when they need us most.

My sweet Carlita is a 15-year-old kitty with the gentlest spirit I’ve ever known. For 15 years, she’s been my steady companion—quiet comfort in the chaos, the warmth in my darkest days, and the laughter in so many of my joys. She is my family, my heart.

Just weeks ago, she was her sunshine self, chasing beams of light across the floor, greeting me every night, her soft chirps always letting me know I was home. But three weeks ago, she was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. We started treatment right away and hoped for an easy road. Today, out of nowhere, she lost the use of her hind legs. She stumbled, circled in confusion, and dragged her little body, searching for help. My heart broke, watching her struggle, helpless and afraid.

I rushed her to emergency vet, where the emergency doctors and neurology team performed battery of tests searching for answers. Her bloodwork came back normal and still, no clear cause could be found. Now, they worry it could be a stroke, a heart problem, or even a brain tumor. The hardest truth is that we won't really know—not without more advanced testing—an MRI specifically—we may never know, and time is not on our side. The cost for this next step is $8,000 to $10,000—far beyond what I can manage on my own right now.

Some have told me to consider letting her go, suggesting her age and the expense mean I should move on. But am I selfish for not giving up? Is it wrong to want to give my best friend a chance, simply because it’s “inconvenient” or costly? I am a nurse and a student; I know how precious and fragile life is. I have held countless hands, both furry and human, at the end of their journey. I know, sometimes, when to let go. I know when kindness means easing pain.

But when I look into Carlita’s eyes, I see hope. Carlita is confused and hurting, yet she still purrs, she still tries to nuzzle my hand. Her bright yellow eyes still trust me to do what’s right by her. I can’t turn away without trying everything.

Right now, I simply do not have the job security or funds to do this alone. But I can’t give up without knowing I did everything I could.

So, with vulnerability, I’m asking with all my heart—please help if you’re able. Every dollar, every share, every word of support means the world. Your kindness could help us find what’s wrong, and maybe—just maybe—give Carlita a chance to chase sunbeams a little longer.

If you’ve ever loved and lost a furry friend, you know: they are not “just animals.” They are family. They change us. And if you can help give back even a fraction of the love Carlita has given me, I will be forever grateful.

Thank you for reading our story, for caring enough to listen, and for helping us hold onto hope a little while longer.

With love, gratitude, and hope.

Venmo @rabinajo (since go fund me charges you)