In the last four years, my best friend, Grom, has needed progressively more medical care, resulting in over $51,000 in medical bills since 2020.

It started with an emergency spleen removal surgery on Sept. 11, 2020. He then developed incurable Cushing's Disease, followed by lameness, arthritis, mobility issues, ongoing reflux that triggers a distinct cough ("terminal retch"), and allergic reaction to the pain meds he was on, which paralyzed his back legs for an entire night, as well as pneumonia this summer.

Although chronic, these diseases are well-managed with proper care. That care includes medications, supplements, twice-weekly physical therapy, acupuncture, and underwater treadmill exercises. It also includes check-ups every 2-3 months to monitor disease progression and the efficacy and adjustments of his treatments.

Grom is a reasonably healthy boy, and he hopefully has many years ahead with proper care.

However, to give him that proper care, his medical bills amount to about $1,200/month AFTER insurance.

That is $14,400/year – at least.

This excludes other potential vet visits or food, treats, preventative supplements, grooming, or insurance premiums.

Speaking of insurance... pet health insurance companies can choose what they cover. For example, they do not cover supplements that help with his conditions and universally refuse to cover the "pre-existing" conditions (even if they're tangentially related).

Unfortunately, Grom did not have insurance during his surgery, so several issues are not covered.

They also increase premiums by 15-25% annually, and we cannot shop around since most don't cover dogs over ten years of age. Any change is also impossible due to the lack of coverage for pre-existing conditions.

In 2024, his insurance premiums are $2,400.

WHY ALL THIS FOR "A DOG?"

It's not for a dog. It's for Grom.

When we met 13 years ago, he was a 9-week-old, 17-lb furball, and I promised to give him the best life possible—until the end.

We do that for those in our care: we give them our best and what they need.

I plan to honor that promise.

He needs me to care for him in his old age the way he has cared for me since that faithful July day when I met a puppy born on my Grandma's birthday. She raised me and had been gone ten years by that point.

Grom came into my life at a very lonely and dark junction, and he saved me. He's been the only constant in 13 years of significant change, heartbreak, and growing pains.

By watching him, I learned and embodied his characteristic Akita traits of calmness, pride, courage, and playfulness. I also learned unconditional love and have had my unique opportunity to parent in a way I wish I had been parented.

It's also built my character, for he reminds me of the better angels of my nature, including acting on them.

Every morning, when I see him, I yell, "Who's my happy dog?" Because that is who he is, what he represents, and what he brings--every moment of every single day.

That's priceless.

No matter what is going on in the world, my Samurai dog meditates with me every morning and greets me with an unmistakable and consistent dose of joy.

The least I can do is care for him, even if I go without something.

But I am not the only one who's benefited.

Anyone who meets him falls in love instantly.

After some friends learned about Grom's significant medical bills, they rallied to help ensure Grom's healthy life.

After all, "he's the best plishani (plushy) boy!"

They suggested I give others a chance to participate in Grom's life in this way, too, reminding me that to know how to give, we must be willing to receive and let others support us.

So, we humbly ask you to help my special boy and contribute to Grom's Health Fund. Every dollar counts and will go directly to cover his medical expenses.

If you prefer, you can also send your contribution directly via Venmo @AdiRedzic.

Thank you!

One last thought...

If a dog has owned you, you will know what a bond like that does.

And if not, try recalling someone who loves you unconditionally, listens to you endlessly, makes you laugh constantly, and fills your heart with joy and warm fuzzies daily.

And yet, he asks for so little: shelter, food, health, and a couple of walks around the neighborhood.

That's my baby Grom.

Thank you so much!!

xoxo,

Adi & Grom