Charlie is our six-year-old Great Dane. She is 130 pounds of pure, gentle energy and spirit. She’s always been a little shy, but endlessly loving. She’s carried so much heart for our family, especially after her sister and littermate, who she was raised with, passed suddenly when they were just two years old. Ever since then, she’s been the one holding all our love. ❤️

This past weekend, Charlie suddenly started having serious issues with her hind legs and hips. After urgent vet visits and scans, we learned she had a herniated disc pressing on her spinal cord. She underwent emergency spinal surgery and thankfully made it through.

Charlie is now home and beginning her long recovery. She also developed a mild case of pneumonia after surgery, and while the chances of her regaining full mobility aren’t great, we’re doing everything we can to give her the healthiest and most comfortable life possible.

Right now, she’s stable — her vitals are good, she’s eating small amounts, following us with her eyes, and seems happy when we’re near …

… But the care is intense: she’s on multiple medications, can’t manage her potty yet, and has to be flipped, cleaned, and massaged several times a day.

While we are doing everything we can to make sure Charlie is safe, cared for, and surrounded by love, we just don’t know what it’s going to take to get through it all. We are especially concerned while also navigating our own parents’ care needs, work, and trying to hold our own health and wellness steady.

If you’re able to contribute, share, or simply send a message of encouragement, it truly means the world.

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How Your Support Will Help Charlie and Our Family

Our Goal: $8,000

This will help cover Charlie’s recovery costs and the essential supports that allow us to care for her with love and dignity at home, over the next few months.

1. Medical, Rehab & In-Home Vet Care

For at-home vet and tech visits, follow-up exams, and ongoing rehab or hydrotherapy to keep her comfortable, manage pneumonia, and maintain circulation and strength.

2. Mobility & Accessibility Equipment

Harnesses, lift slings, a custom-fit wheelchair, ramps, and non-slip flooring to help her move safely and regain some independence.

3. Hygiene, Comfort & Nutrition Supplies

Incontinence pads, washable mats, wipes, waterproof bedding, orthopedic cushions, and nutritious soft foods and supplements to keep her strong and clean.

4. Therapy, Home Support & Emotional Care for Michael and Tristen

Counseling and therapy to help manage caregiver stress and grief, plus occasional help with grocery runs, cleaning, and organizing the house so we can stay balanced while caring for her.

5. Transportation & Emergency Reserve

A buffer for vet transport, re-check x-rays, medication adjustments, or unexpected complications.

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Thank you for reading, donating, or simply sending your love our way. Every bit of support, whether emotional, practical, or financial, helps us keep going.

We’ll share regular updates as Charlie continues to heal.