I never imagined I’d be writing something like this.

Just days ago, my sweet 10-year-old cat, Ddoong-E, was struggling to breathe and I had to rush her to the emergency vet.

X-rays and an ultrasound revealed a large amount of fluid in her chest (pleural effusion), pressing on her lungs and making it incredibly hard for her to breathe. The vet said she drained about 150ml of fluid just so she could take full breaths again.

We ran some tests but the results were unfortunately inconclusive. And now facing an uncertain and frightening reality: Ddoong-E may have a tumor in her chest or heart disease — but we need more tests to know for sure. We’re still in the diagnostic phase, but every test, scan, and procedure comes with a cost I’m struggling to manage.

What Ddoong-E Needs Now:

Advanced diagnostics to rule out cancer (like lymphoma) or heart failure (CT scan, $3000 and echocardiogram, $1000)

Potential biopsy or imaging if a mass is found ($1,000–$2,000+)

Ongoing chest fluid drainage ($500 each visit)

Medications and supportive care ($300 for each vet visit & $ Oh dear—only God knows how much— for medicine)

I’m a postdoctoral researcher working on medical advancements to help more premature babies survive. Though I am grateful to be able to dedicate my work for the most vulnerable in society, a postdoc's income is unfortunately low, and these vet bills are unaffordable for me. I never imagined I'd be in a position where I’d have to ask for help — but right now, I have to for Ddoong-E.

She’s been with me through every stage of my adult life. I adopted Ddoong-E when I was 20 years old — now I’m 30, and she’s been by my side through undergrad, grad school, and countless long research nights. She’s not just a cat — she’s family. I’ve always looked forward to the day she’d make friends with my future children.

And my younger cat, Jelly, would be very sad to lose his nap buddy.

I humbly ask for donations — even the smallest amount would mean the world to me— to help cover Ddoong-e's testing and treatment.

I promise to keep everyone updated as we get more answers and move through his treatment process. Every share, donation, and kind word helps more than you know.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting my cat, friend, family, Ddoong-e.

Here is my vet contact information :

https://www.northyorkveterinaryclinic.com/

Dr. Yul Kim