Hi everyone, I’m starting this fundraiser on behalf of my friend Melinda and her dog, Norman, who is currently in emergency surgery. If you know Melinda, you know how much Norman means to her. He’s not just her dog—he’s her constant companion and truly a special part of her life and work. About a month ago, Norman needed X-rays after eating something he shouldn’t have (he’s a Lab, after all), and that’s when they incidentally discovered he has a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (PPDH)—something he’s had since birth with no symptoms up until now. This week, everything changed very quickly. Norman was rushed to the emergency vet, where they found that his liver had shifted into his chest cavity and become compromised. He also developed fluid around his heart and lungs. He is now undergoing emergency surgery to repair the hernia and assess the damage. The situation is serious, and while the vets are hopeful, there are still many unknowns.

Norman is incredibly special—not just to Melinda, but to so many others. He works alongside her as a therapy dog with children with special needs at the Phoenix Center, where he brings comfort, calm, and joy to the students every day. Anyone who has met him knows how gentle and intuitive he is. This has all happened unexpectedly, and the cost of emergency care, imaging, and surgery is overwhelming. Melinda has been doing everything she can to make sure Norman gets the care he needs, but she could really use support right now.

If you’re able to donate, share, or keep Norman in your thoughts, it would mean so much. Thank you for helping Norman get through this. —Michelle