This is Mercy — the sweetest, most gentle soul I've ever met. She survived the streets malnourished, full of worms, and raising puppies all on her own. Through it all, she stayed kind, submissive, and full of love.

Now, we finally know why she struggles so much: both of her knees are torn. She can't run. She can barely climb stairs. Yet every day, even in pain, she tries so hard to get up and follow me into the yard, just wanting to be by my side.

The only way to give her a pain-free life is surgery on both knees, about $2,000 total. Zach and I are struggling financially, but I can't give up on her — she deserves this chance.

If you can help, in any amount or by sharing her story, you'll be giving Mercy the gift of walking, playing, and finally living the joyful life she's fought so hard to reach.