Help Luna the 8 year old rescue raise $8000 for Radiation

Luna, is an 8-year-old German Shepherd/Husky mix, and has always been my source of joy and energy in life. From the day I adopted her, she brought an unwavering spirit and boundless love into our home. Her enthusiasm for life was contagious, and her favorite activity was going on long walks, exploring the world with a curious nose and a wagging tail. But over the past year, I have watched her vibrant spirit dim as she battled a relentless and painful illness.

Luna recently faced a serious health challenge with a spinal tumor. She underwent surgery at University of Missouri Veterinary Health to remove 75% of the tumor and is now showing promising signs of recovery. However, she needs radiation therapy to address the remaining tumor and prevent regrowth. Your support is crucial in helping Luna achieve a full recovery and enjoy a pain-free life.

It started in November 2023 at the dog park, I first noticed Luna limping on her right hind leg. At first, I thought she might have strained a muscle from one of our adventures. But as days turned into weeks, her limp worsened, and my concern grew. In February 2024, following the advice of our vet, we decided to proceed with TPLO surgery, hoping it would alleviate her pain and restore her mobility. The surgery seemed like a beacon of hope (if expensive) in our struggle, a chance for Luna to regain her strength and spirit.

March brought the beginning of physical therapy and rehab. Luna, ever the fighter, gave it her all, trying every day to get stronger. But as I watched her struggle, my heart ached. Despite her determination, her recovery was not progressing as smoothly as we had hoped. She started to lay down in certain positions, carefully chosen to avoid pain, a sign of her silent suffering.

By April, our rehab vet recommended an MRI, suspecting a neurological issue. This revelation brought a new wave of worry. Luna’s condition seemed to be deteriorating further. Her limp grew worse, and I noticed that her left hind leg was now being affected. She could no longer enjoy the long walks she loved so much. Her once-joyful explorations turned into short, painful endeavors, leaving her exhausted and me heartbroken.

In June, the situation became dire. Luna’s limp had worsened, and her spirit began to withdraw. She started leaving the room when we were watching TV, trying to spare me the sight of her pain. It was as if she didn’t want me to see her struggle, to witness the toll the illness was taking on her. Her once-vibrant eyes, full of curiosity and mischief, now held a shadow of the pain she silently endured.

On July 17, we had a crucial consultation with Dr. Joan Coates, a neurologist at the University of Missouri. The MRI revealed the presence of a spinal tumor, a discovery that shook me to my core. Two days later, Luna underwent surgery, and approximately 75% of the tumor was successfully removed. Dr. Coates, unable to access the remaining pieces of the tumor, recommended radiation therapy to prevent its recurrence.

Now, as Luna recovers in the ICU, we wait for the biopsy results and the next steps in her cancer treatment. Despite everything, Luna’s spirit remains unbroken. She continues to fight, her eyes still holding a spark of the incredible resilience that has carried her through this ordeal.

I am overwhelmed by the journey we have been on, the challenges we have faced, and the uncertainty that lies ahead. Yet, amidst the pain and fear, there is hope. Hope that with the right treatment, Luna can enjoy a life free from pain. She deserves every chance to reclaim the joy and vitality that once defined her days.

As we navigate this difficult path, I am deeply grateful for any support we can receive. Luna’s battle is far from over, but with love, determination, and the right care, I believe she can overcome this. Thank you for considering our story and for any help you can provide to ensure Luna receives the treatment she needs. All donations will be used to pay for extraordinary and advanced treatments at the University of Missouri Columbia Small Animal Hospital.