In Loving Memory of Autumn

Anyone who gets the chance to meet Shannon can tell you how beautiful her heart is—full of genuine love, kindness, and compassion for everyone she comes in contact with. She always puts others before herself (both humans & animals) and never expects anything in return.

(It is no surprise that she was born on Valentine’s Day!)

Over the past year, Shannon and her boyfriend Eli have faced two heartbreaking and expensive pet emergencies.

In November 2023, their beloved guinea pig, Rory, was diagnosed with a severe dental condition that required multiple costly procedures. Despite every effort to give him the best life possible, he continued to suffer leading to their heartbreaking decision to put him to sleep in August 2024. The total cost of his care totaled over $8,000.

Then, less than two weeks ago, their cat Autumn was rushed to the emergency vet for trouble breathing. She was diagnosed with advanced hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure which required oxygen support and fluid drainage from her lungs. Fortunately they were able to stabilize her enough to return home, but there is still no end in sight. So far, her treatment has cost over $5,000, and there will be continuous medical costs for monitoring and medication to keep her stable. Autumn is not expected to live more than a year, and knowing the irreplaceable bond Shannon and Eli share with Autumn, I want nothing more than for them to cherish every moment they have left with her.

So, If you’re able to donate, any amount would help ease the financial burden so Shannon and Eli can focus on giving Autumn the love and care she deserves for as long as possible.

Shannon never asks for help—when Rory first fell ill, I wanted to start a fundraiser, but she insisted she didn’t want anyone to feel obligated to give. That’s just who she is. But the reality is that she has given everything to ensure her pets receive the best care, and I know there are so many people who would love the chance to support her the way she has supported so many others.

Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting two amazing people. They would never ask for this help, but I know they would be beyond grateful.

Shannon is the best friend I could ever ask for, so your support for her also means the world to me.

I love you so much Shannon.