Hi, we’re Ruben and Lucy, and we are raising funds to help cover the cost of our 8-year-old dachshund Noah’s second emergency spinal surgery.

If you know us, you know Noah.

He is not just our dog. He is our shadow. Lucy’s little bodyguard. Since she became pregnant, he has been even more protective. Always next to her. Always watching. Always making sure she is okay.

Noah is 8 years old. Clingy. Loyal. Sensitive. He feels everything with us.

Last January (2025) Noah underwent emergency spinal surgery for IVDD. After that surgery, he temporarily lost mobility in his back legs. We carried him. Supported him. Helped him relearn how to move. Three months of strict recovery, rehab, and constant care.

He fought. He healed. He came back.

We thought we were past the worst.

A few weeks ago, he began showing signs of severe neck pain. We tried everything. Crate rest. Medication. Sleepless nights listening for him cry from his crate, hoping we could avoid another surgery.

But a new MRI revealed significant spinal cord compression between his second and third cervical vertebrae. (his neck)

He needed another spinal surgery.

This time, the neurologist performed a ventral slot procedure. This is a delicate surgery done through the front of the neck to remove disc material and fluid pressing directly on the spinal cord. The goal is to relieve pressure and prevent further damage while giving him a chance to live without constant pain.

It is a highly specialized procedure, especially in the neck, and it requires careful monitoring and recovery.

The surgery was successful. They removed a large amount of compressive material. Noah is in ICU. He is standing. He is fighting.

But this has been an enormous emotional and financial hit.

In January, his first MRI cost $5,000, partially covered by insurance.

This week’s MRI and surgery totaled approximately $10,000 out of pocket.

At the same time, we are preparing to welcome our baby boy in July. Noah already acts like a big brother. He has been her protector throughout this pregnancy.

We would go through this again for him without hesitation. He has given us eight years of unconditional love. He has been there through career changes, hard seasons, and now through one of the biggest transitions of our lives.

But we are exhausted, overwhelmed, and we are asking for help.

If you feel moved to contribute, we would be deeply grateful. Every bit helps us recover from this unexpected second spinal surgery and focus on helping Noah heal and preparing for the arrival of his baby brother.

Thank you for caring about him.

Thank you for reading his story.

And thank you for helping us bring him home strong again.

With gratitude,

Ruben and Lucy