If you know me, then you know Sam — my sweet boy, my little shadow, my heart. Recently, Sam was diagnosed with IVDD, a painful spinal condition that has left him unable to walk. After a jump from our bed, the fragile discs in his lower spine shifted and compressed his spinal cord. Without surgery, he’s at serious risk of permanent paralysis.

Right now, we have him on strict bed rest, doing everything we can to manage his pain and keep him comfortable. But the truth is, he needs surgery to have a real chance at getting back to the life he deserves — running around, wagging his tail, and being the happy pup everyone knows and loves.

I know times are hard, and asking for help is never easy. But if you’re able to support Sam’s recovery in any way, whether by donating or simply sharing his story, it would mean the world.