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Coils for Kado

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This is the story of a very special therapy 6 month old puppy placed in his owner’s life to help her and others in our community. But first we need to help him. He was born with a liver shunt where unfiltered blood remains in his system leaving him dizzy and disoriented which will progressively get worse with age. A special surgery with Dr. Beal at Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine will place coils (hence the fundraiser’s name)  to block these incorrect blood vessels. 

Note donations can also be made directly
at Bayshore Veterinary Hospital in Harvey or to MSU with the case info: Kado reference #499912 phone number [phone redacted]

Please read the heartfelt letter from his owner Lisa below.



To my Animal Lover Friends,

 
In one of the most distressing times in my life, I am heartbreakingly unable to care for my new 6 month old therapy dog in training, Kado - Kibou (Japanese for “Hope”).

 On November 14, 2018, it was confirmed by MSU Veterinary Medical Center, Dr. Casey Dropkin, that Kado has an intrahepatic portosystemic liver shunt. He needs a rare and expensive surgery because his liver cannot filter toxins.  Without this surgery, Kado’s life will not extend beyond 1-2 years.

Given the complexity of his medical condition, veterinarians have recommended that this surgery be performed at MSU where knowledge, skills, and equipment are available.  The estimated cost of this surgery, including tests, is $8,000-10,000.

 In the midst of this chapter in my life, it’s been overwhelming to face the extent of Kado’s medical condition.  As I face my circumstances, I am also aware of others in need and find it difficult to ask for help. 

It’s with encouragement and foresight from others who see the community-wide value in this story, that I have chosen to seek help for Kado so that he might serve his intended purpose...bringing comfort and hope to others, together by my side.

 Although Kado has become my latest partner in the gift of therapy dogs, he is not my first.  Both personally and as a Special Education Teacher, this has been of great value.  My last therapy dog, Chaco, who I lost in 2016, was dearly loved and touched many lives. 

From young children to teens and senior citizens, the gifts of love from Chaco were shared in many settings including schools, assisted living facilities, and warming shelters.  Most precious to me was his connection with my beloved mother bringing her joy and safety during her final days of Alzheimer ’s disease.  They are both sadly missed.

 Since losing Chaco, the benefits of his presence has been put on pause as I’ve worked through the grief of his loss.  Now, having Kado in my life and receiving the healing love that pets provide for us all, I find it hard to imagine anything less in-kind being returned to him.

 It is my goal and heartfelt purpose within my story, that the gift of extending Kado’s life be a conduit of sharing greater hope and awareness into our community through the gifts of therapy animals.  As many, I, too, have experienced how the unconditional love of pets can aid in the process of healing.  With an ability to be fully present, I feel pets bring a pure connection often longed for.

Should the generosity exceed the cost of the surgery, my heart would like to donate 50% to Pathways Community Mental Health in support of Trauma Awareness-Trauma Informed Care, educational programs.  With the remaining 50%, it’s my wish that funds be allocated equally between Superior Land Pet Partners and Marquette Warming Center. 

Thank you for your love, generosity and engagement of your time with our story.

Blessings,      

Lisa
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Donations 

  • Anonymous
    • $30
    • 6 yrs
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Fundraising team: Team Kibou (2)

Lisa Fleet
Organizer
Marquette, MI
Tracy Nyberg
Team member

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