Hi there! I'm Michelle. I'm starting this fundraiser for my longtime friend Ray Lopez and his beloved dog, Rocco, a sweet 4-year-old Pomeranian. Recently, Rocco injured his back leg after jumping off the couch, and the injury has been extremely painful. After rushing him to the emergency vet, Ray was given heartbreaking news: Rocco needs corrective surgery, with the cost quoted at nearly $9,000. Rocco is still so young and has so much life ahead of him, so Ray is moving forward with the surgery to give him the care he needs and the chance to heal fully. I've known Ray now for 26 years and he's pretty cynical and stoic. There are very few things that make him outwardly emotional, but his pup is one of those things. I know he won't ask for help himself, so I wanted to try to help him offset some of this expense by creating this fundraising effort.

What you don't know is Ray is preparing for his upcoming wedding, so this unexpected emergency has created a heavy financial burden at an already stressful time. I'm hoping to help ease some of that pressure so Ray can focus on what matters most right now: His marriage, and Rocco’s recovery so he can get through this difficult moment with a little less worry.

How funds will help: Every donation will go toward Rocco’s surgery and related veterinary care. Any support, whether through a donation or by sharing this fundraiser, would mean the world to Ray and Rocco. Thank you for showing them kindness, love, and support during this time.