Hello, my name is John Lee, and I’m reaching out for help for my 99-year-old grandmother, Ms. Gail Camp, and her beloved golden retriever, Sori. Many of you might know Ms. Gail as a two-time duck-calling champion, a title she earned through grit and spirit. But what truly makes her remarkable is her heart—especially her love for Sori, her constant companion and comfort.

A year and a half ago, Sori came into her life as a gift, and their bond has been magical ever since. No one can bring my grandma joy the way Sori does. At her age, companionship means everything, and having Sori by her side has given her renewed strength and a steady friend. Whether they’re playing together or Sori is resting gently by her feet, Sori has been her joy, comfort, and motivation.

But on November 4, while we took Ms. Gail to an appointment, Sori escaped her crate. She became ill shortly after, unable to hold down food or water. We rushed her to the vet, but the initial X-rays were unclear. After an exploratory surgery on November 8, the vet discovered a hard piece of plastic had punctured Sori’s small intestine, causing her pancreas to go septic. The surgery cost $3,100, and she required intensive treatment and a weekend stay at the ER clinic ($3,500) for medications and monitoring.

Sori started to recover, but recently developed complications with fluid buildup, requiring a second surgery with a specialist to insert temporary stents and drain the fluid. Her prognosis remains good, but the bills are mounting. We’re anticipating total costs between $10,000 and $15,000—a burden that’s hard to bear as Ms. Gail relies on a fixed Social Security income and has around-the-clock care needs.

Ms. Gail means the world to me, and I know Sori does to her. Watching the joy Sori brings to my grandma’s life is truly heartwarming, and I can’t imagine her without this companionship. Any contribution, no matter the size, would mean the world to Ms. Gail and Sori as we work to help Sori recover fully and stay by her side.

Thank you for your generosity, kindness, and support. Every bit helps bring Sori back to Ms. Gail.

The animal clinic is Eastgate Animal Clinic located on 5082 Park Avenue, Memphis, TN 38117 if you would like to donate directly!