Birdy is our friendly, sweet cat who was recently diagnosed with diabetes and pancreatitis, and possibly has IBD as well. She was overweight when we adopted her, so we knew that she was likely to develop health problems, but we were committed to giving her the best life no matter what.

We were already struggling financially before her diagnosis. In addition to rent, groceries, and student debt, we now have to cover expenses including more frequent vet visits, medication, insulin, syringes, new food for her special diet, a glucometer and blood sugar testing strips.

She is a part of our family and we are determined to not have to give her up. But covering these costs is not easy in this economy. One of us got laid off and has been struggling to find a new job. It would mean the world if a stranger's kindness helped us take care of our baby.