The past few weeks have been a nightmare for our family. Our beloved family dog (aka papa’s best furiend), Gator, was diagnosed with a brain tumor (likely meningioma). After four visits to our family & ER vets, we were finally referred to a neurology specialist to get an MRI when Gator had multiple seizures back to back. The MRI showed a very large mass and so much pressure in his head. Gator is currently on a steroid and antiseizure meds while we work with the radiation oncology specialist to figure out next steps.

We ultimately decided to pursue stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). To plan for this, a CT skull had to be completed. We elected to get a CT chest as well to evaluate his lungs because he’s been having a persistent cough. Today, we were notified that a portion of his abdomen was captured as well and the read was not really great news…they noticed some “lumps and bumps” and what could potentially be swollen lymph nodes. Although this could be due to some infectious/inflammatory process, it’s also possible that it could be another form of cancer…and the next step to diagnose this would be additional work up and tests.

We have insurance for Gator (through Spot) but have been disappointed with how they have been handling Gator's case. We're currently in the process of an appeal; however, even if we are successful, the costs of all the medical bills are well over the annual maximum coverage. We've been paying out of pocket for everything because we want every chance possible to give Gator his life back. However, these additional bumps in the road continue to add on significant, unexpected costs. We wanted to avoid this as much as possible but we are now asking our family, friends and dog loving community to please consider donating to help with Gator’s medical bills. Your contribution, no matter the size, will help Gator more than you know.

Thank you for your consideration and for being a part of Gator’s story. Your kindness has the power to make a real difference in Gator’s fight against cancer.

With Love,

The Hinchey Family