Kiki was recently diagnosed with a rare blood cancer called Primary Polycythemia, a condition that causes her body to produce far too many red blood cells. When I brought her to the emergency hospital, her blood was 89% red blood cells, dangerously thick (like sludge) and putting her at immediate risk for organ failure. She suffered multiple seizures and strokes. The veterinary team was able to stabilize her and bring that level down to about 60%, which allowed her to come home.

Kiki is still not out of danger. She is currently dealing with confusion, tremors, limited mobility, and very little appetite—all effects of the disease not yet being fully controlled. Until her long-term chemotherapy medication begins to work (after around 3-4 months), the only way to keep her safe is through regular phlebotomy treatments. These are not diagnostic blood draws; they are necessary medical procedures to remove excess blood and then essentially water it down with saline to prevent it from becoming thick enough to make her severely ill again.

For the next three to four months, she will likely need this procedure as often as every two weeks, with each visit costing $200–$300. I was able to cover the initial emergency care, but I am a graduate student living on a small stipend and the ongoing cost is more than I can realistically manage alone. Once her chemotherapy medication takes effect, her care should become far more affordable and her life expectancy is 5 more years, but she has to get through this unstable period first.

I’m asking for help from friends, family, and the rescue community that understands how much these animals mean to us. Even $5 or $10, or simply sharing this page, would make a real difference in keeping Kiki safe while I fight for her stability. I’m doing everything I can for her, and I’m grateful for any support that helps give her more time!!