After losing her beloved Yorkie Max and her horse Cody, Michele needs our support to bring comfort to her and her remaining pup, Sophiee.”  

On Monday, December 8, Michele unexpectedly lost her beloved Max. Her heart is shattered, as anyone who has ever loved a pet understands all too well. To make this loss even more devastating, Michele is still grieving the passing of her horse, Cody, whom she had for 17 years and lost just five months ago.

For as long as we’ve known her, Michele has been a light in her community and to everyone in her life. She is always the first to step up and help—often before you even ask—and she rarely asks for anything in return. For 11 straight years, up until her illness, she prepared and delivered 100–150 Christmas dinners from her own home to people experiencing homelessness. Her kindness, compassion, and generosity have touched countless lives. For all of us who have ever wanted to give back to her, now is the time.

A little about Max, because he was truly one of a kind:

He was a funny little dude—a perpetually jolly Yorkie who would waddle over to chat with anyone he spotted outside. He loved lying flat on his belly with his legs stretched out behind him, “splooting” across the floor. His favorite snack was raw carrots (which he happily stole from anyone within reach). He had the biggest personality, zig-zagged through life with zero leash awareness, made everyone around him feel special, and was Michele’s lifesaver. He was deeply loved, cared for, and adored by everyone who met him.

The love Michele had for Max was real, deep, and beautiful. She gave him a life full of safety, joy, and devotion. And now, in her moment of heartbreak, the people who care about her are stepping in to give her that same support back.

On Wednesday, December 3, Michele brought Max to the vet and was given a 10-day prescription of antibiotics. By Monday, December 8, he was gone.

We want to help Michele bring Max home—especially with the holidays approaching. No one should have to face this kind of heartbreak alone. Michele has spent years giving to others simply because she could, and now it’s our turn to support her in a moment when she truly needs it.

Funds will go toward Max’s veterinary expenses, his cremation, and the financial strain she is still carrying from Cody’s sudden passing, which cost over $5,000.

Thank you for helping us wrap Michele in love during this painful time.