Hi, my name is Sydney and I'm from the Rio Grande Valley. Back in June of 2022 my family and I rescued a dog and we very quickly realized that she didn't have a home. We couldn't leave her behind, so we took matters into our own hands and made her a part of the family. We named her Darla.

This past summer, my mom and I tried to get Darla spayed but she was denied almost immediately because of her breathing. We were informed that she could potentially still undergo surgery, but that she would be emitted as an automatic high-risk because her trachea could collapse during the procedure. About an hour later, we received a call informing us that the staff and veterinarians had ultimately decided to not proceed with the surgery. They recommended that we take Darla somewhere with more specialized equipment to better accommodate her small snout and atypical breathing patterns.

As time went on Darla's breathing started to worsen. I decided to take her to a local veterinarian, where she was ultimately diagnosed with an Elongated Soft Palate, which contributes to her heavy and labored breathing. The veterinarian explained that this condition can occur in dogs with her breed and size.

After her diagnosis, I have made it my mission to help my babygirl to live a happier and more comfortable life. Darla loves to run and play, but unfortunately, she can only do so much before her breathing engulfs her activities and tires her out even more. It's so heartbreaking to watch Darla try her hardest to be a normal dog only for her breathing to take those chances away from her.

The vet that I initially took Darla to does not perform that specific procedure but recommended that I take her to YRM Veterinary Services. After examining and assessing Darla, they quoted me around $930 for her procedure. This estimate does not include the take-home medications, as those costs will only be determined once the procedure is underway.

To be completely honest, I was dreading hearing the cost. But I also knew that no number could ever determine whether or not I would do everything in my power to help Darla.

This is why I am creating this GoFundMe.

I was raised with the belief that I shouldn't ask for money when I'm capable of working and helping myself. I've also carried the stigma, especially within the Mexican culture, that asking for financial help is very frowned upon. Because of that, I have been putting off creating this page for a while. But I realized that staying silent won't help Darla receive the care she needs.

This fundraiser isn't for me. It's for Darla.

Darla has been by my side through some of the most important moments of my life. She has helped me tremendously throughout my goals and accomplishments, and now I feel that it's my turn to be there for her. Thank you for helping me take a step into helping Darla live a comfortable life.

Any contribution would mean the world to my family and I. If you are unable to donate, simply sharing Darla's story would help and mean just as much.

Thank you for taking the time to read Darla's story and making an impact on her life. Thank you for giving her a chance to live a normal life.