Luna Beth is my 3-year-old Australian Shepherd — my best friend, my constant, and my peace. She has been with me through the loss of my dad and has been the reason I get up every morning since the day I brought her home. The thought of losing her is devastating, and right now that possibility feels terrifyingly real.

As a puppy, Luna was diagnosed with encephalitis — inflammation of the brain — caused by an autoimmune condition. With treatment, she recovered, but I was warned that this could return later in life.

Two weeks ago, Luna started acting strangely. Because she is otherwise in perfect physical health, our vet immediately referred us to a neurologist. After testing, she was once again diagnosed with autoimmune encephalitis. We began treatment right away, knowing that adult flare-ups are often harder to control than when she was a puppy.

Despite treatment, Luna is still extremely lethargic, shaking, and not herself. To give her the best chance at a longer, better quality of life, her neurologist now recommends starting immunosuppressant therapy. Unfortunately, after the initial emergency care, diagnostics, and hospitalization, the veterinary costs have left me — and everyone helping me — financially tapped out and in debt.

How the Funds Will Be Used

Luna’s neurologist has recommended 3–4 rounds of immunosuppressive treatment over the next few months to control her autoimmune encephalitis and improve her quality of life as well as her life span.

• First treatment: A 48-hour hospitalization with an IV immunosuppressant drip, estimated at $4,000–$5,000

• Subsequent treatments: Additional immunosuppressant rounds, approximately $2,000 per treatment

Funds raised will go directly toward these treatments, ongoing monitoring, medications, and follow-up care recommended by her veterinary neurologist.

I would never ask for help if there were another option. But I am scared of losing my girl, and I am doing everything I can to fight for her.

Any donation, share, or kind word helps more than I can put into words. Thank you for taking the time to read Luna’s story and for helping us give her the chance she deserves.