Ease the Burden of Veterinary Expenses

My name is Tessa Dipietro, daughter of Nina and Erik Begg.

I am starting this fundraiser to assist my parents with the burden of medical bills. After the kittens attended a clinic in Kitchener on January 9th to be neutered, my parents noticed that Bruce became lethargic, vomiting liquid, off his foods and urinating himself about a week later. That night, Bruce was rushed to an emergency vet who they later that night said goodbye to. The next day, on January 18th, Eyegore became lethargic and was rushed to the vet as well. Shortly after, he was sent home with antibiotics as he appeared to have an infection and had subdermal antibiotics and anti-nauseants administered. Later that night, Eyegore joined his brother Bruce, passing away in Eriks arms.

On January 21st, Hank began vomiting and was promptly taken to the vet. Hank exhibited a low-grade fever, and initial tests yielded negative results. On January 22nd, Hank, along with some other kittens, had a scheduled vaccination appointment for panleukopenia. Considering the symptoms observed in Eyegore and Bruce, it appears they may have contracted the disease during their neutering at the original vet’s.

During the vaccination appointment, Nina and Erik discovered that Hank and Marmalade both had fevers, prompting them to postpone the vaccination. On January 24th, Acorn and Marmalade started vomiting, and Acorn even urinated herself before being rushed to Heartland. Both were diagnosed with panleukopenia and admitted to intensive care. Marmalade's fever increased, while Acorn experienced a drop in body temperature. The vet at Heartland expressed concern that they might not survive the night.

Later that night, Nina and Erik returned to the vet hospital, said goodbye to Acorn, and learned that Beans also tested positive for panleukopenia. Assuming Hank likely had it too, they braced for the worst. On the 26th, they received an update on Marmalade, who was holding her own but still in intensive care. Beans appeared more energetic and had eaten a bit, while Hank seemed to have returned to normal.

Later that day, Marmalade was brought home for comfort. However, a few days later, she was rushed back to the hospital due to minimal eating and constant hiding. Sadly, Marmalade joined her siblings later that day.

This unexpected turn of events has placed an immense financial burden on Nina and Erik, as the medical expenses for their care were substantial. In addition to the emotional toll, they are now grappling with the aftermath of significant veterinary bills.

As we navigate through this difficult time, we are humbly reaching out to our friends, family, and community for support. Any contribution, no matter how small, would go a long way in helping us cover the overwhelming expenses incurred during this heartbreaking ordeal.

If you are able and willing to contribute, please consider making a donation to this GoFundMe. Your generosity will not only assist Nina and Erik in settling the veterinary bills but also provide some relief during this trying period.

We genuinely appreciate your consideration and support during these difficult times. Please keep Nina and Erik in your thoughts, and if you are unable to contribute financially, your emotional support means the world to us.