Help Citra Beat Cancer

Who, What, When, Where, and Why

I’m Andie, and my best friend Monika and her partner David’s beloved cat, Citra, who is 8 years old and turning 9 on August 6th, has been diagnosed with a cancerous growth, feline injection site sarcoma, on his upper left hind leg. They discovered a small lump on 06/12/24, and after a series of vet appointments, tests, and consultations, learned the devastating news on 06/28/24. Monika and David have been working closely with Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle (VSC) and Dr. Song to come up with the best treatment plan for Citra. We're seeking your support to raise $10,000 to cover the costs of his leg amputation and chemotherapy, which we hope will save his life.

Our Story and Plan

Monika has had Citra since he was almost 10 weeks old, and he has been a cherished member of their family ever since. On 06/12/24, they found a lump on Citra’s leg and took him to Fremont Animal Hospital (FAH) on 06/19/24, where a sample was taken but proved inconclusive. A surgical biopsy on 06/25/24 confirmed their worst fears: Citra has cancer. After several consultations, including a second opinion on 07/19/24, they've decided to proceed with an aggressive treatment plan recommended by their vet, Dr. Rachel, and Dr. Song at VSC.

Citra’s treatment plan involves a leg amputation followed by chemotherapy. While radiation therapy offers better outcomes, it would require them to board Citra far from home for a month, which isn't feasible. Dr. Song has recommended Doxorubicin chemotherapy, which Citra will tolerate better and which they can manage closer to home. The estimated cost of surgery alone is between $7,335 and $8,652, with additional costs for potential chemotherapy.

How Your Support Will Help

Your generous donations will directly cover the costs of Citra’s surgery and chemotherapy.

Monika has already spent over $4,000 on initial tests and consultations:

While they have received some reimbursement from pet insurance, there is an annual maximum for both Citra and their dog, Cosmo, who also had his share of medical issues including surgery at the beginning of the year. They are unable to schedule the surgery unless they can provide the low end of the estimate as a deposit. The longer they wait, the more likely it is that Citra's tumor will continue to grow, making this fight even more challenging.

They are still awaiting the final estimate for chemotherapy. Any amount you can contribute will help ensure that Citra receives the best possible care.

Thank you for your support and for helping give Citra the fighting chance he deserves.