It’s with real reluctance and a great amount of sadness that I’m writing this, but after everything that’s happened this past week, I realized that I need community support getting through this.

Late last week, I suddenly had to say goodbye to my beloved companion, Cy, after an aggressive attack from cancer. This quickly turned into an emergency situation. Within days, he was in critical condition, and I was faced with the kind of decision no pet owner is ever ready for.

Cy wasn’t just a dog to me; he was my best friend, my sidekick, and a huge part of my everyday life. If you ever met him, you knew what a sweet soul he was.

I did everything I could to give him a chance. That included emergency vet care, testing, and treatment while they tried to figure out what was going on. In the end, the cancer progressed too quickly, and I had to make the incredibly difficult decision to let him go peacefully.

Between two vet visits at Soquel Creek Animal Hospital, emergency care at Pacific Vet, and cremation, the total cost ended up being upwards of $6,000.

As a teacher here in Santa Cruz, that kind of unexpected expense is a tremendous financial blow, especially given the cost of living in this area.

I’m not someone who’s usually comfortable asking for help like this; however, this hit both emotionally and financially all at once. If you’re able to contribute anything at all, it would go directly toward helping cover those unexpected veterinary expenses.

And if you can’t donate, that’s completely okay. Sharing this or just sending some good thoughts means a lot too.

Thank you for taking the time to read this and for being part of my community. Cy was deeply loved by many people and animals in the Santa Cruz community. Thank you.

– Jason