On August 31, 2025, my life was forever changed. My family’s 14-year-old semi-blind dog named Forest — a beloved companion — tragically passed away after being struck by my boyfriend’s car as we were pulling into the gate during heavy rain. The car was moving slowly, and at first the dog was at the side of the vehicle. But in an unpredictable moment, he moved underneath and was struck by the back wheel.

He cried out in pain, unable to stand, his hip, spine, and paw injured. In tears, I wrapped him in towels and rushed him home. As his condition worsened, we took him to the vet. The vet administered pain medication, examined him carefully, and gently explained that euthanasia was the most humane option. With a shattered heart, I agreed, not wanting him to suffer further.

In an effort to spare my family the trauma of hearing the details, I told them he had passed peacefully in his sleep. This was my mistake. My intention was to shield them — a promise I made to myself long ago after enduring a traumatic childhood experience where I witnessed the violent death of my kitten. Unfortunately, this decision caused deep pain and mistrust. My family disowned me, blocked me everywhere, and told me they never wanted contact again. The grief of losing both the dog and my family has been unbearable.

But in the midst of this heartbreak, I don’t want the story to end in despair. I want to honor Forest by turning this tragedy into an act of love.

That’s why I am starting this fundraiser: to raise money for local animal shelters. These shelters rescue, rehabilitate, and care for vulnerable animals — the ones who still have a chance at safety and love. Every dollar donated will go directly to helping them continue their lifesaving work.

This way, Forest`s memory can live on — not only in our hearts but in the wagging tails and second chances of countless other dogs.

How you can help:

Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference.

Donations over $20 will be honored with your name written on a heart, placed into a framed tribute in Forest’s memory.

I will be closing the fundraiser on Thanksgiving and donating all proceeds immediately afterward under Forest’s name and picture.

Though my family has cut ties, my love for Forest and for them remains. This fundraiser is not only a way to honor him, but also a step in my own healing — transforming pain into compassion, grief into action.

If you cannot donate, please consider sharing this campaign to help spread his story. Together, we can keep Forest’s spirit alive by helping other animals find the love, care, and dignity they deserve.

From the bottom of my heart — thank you.