One year ago, my worst nightmare came true — my beloved fur son, Aspen, was stolen from my new home in Denver, Colorado days after moving in. In an instant, the dog who had been my constant companion, best friend, and source of joy was gone. What followed was a relentless search that spanned states, countless sleepless nights, endless calls, posts, and prayers. Against all odds, after eight long months, we found him nearly 1,700 miles away in rural New York. The reunion was nothing short of a miracle, but it also revealed that Aspen had endured trauma and neglect during his time and was going through the hardest times of anyone.

Many of you have been with us through every twist and turn of Aspen’s journey — from the heartbreak of him being stolen, to the months of tireless searching, and finally to the miracle of bringing him home. I will never forget the outpouring of love, support, and determination from this community that helped make the impossible possible.

While our search efforts were a success, the emotional toll was matched by a financial one. Between travel, resources, and months of focus on finding Aspen, my savings have been drained and truly took everything to get him home. Now, we’re facing $4,500 in veterinary bills from his evaluation and care after his return — an itemized breakdown from last month that covered the necessary medical treatment to ensure Aspen’s health and recovery.

On top of this, I’m finally moving out of the house where Aspen was stolen — an important step in starting fresh for both of us — but it comes with more financial strain and am having a difficult time handling the financial burden this nightmare has caused.

I know how this may be viewed, and took me a while to swallow my pride and ask the community for help, specially from the people who have been part of Aspen’s story from the very beginning and have a better understanding of this nightmare & miracle. Every contribution, no matter how small, will go directly toward paying down these medical bills and helping Aspen truly get back on his feet.

You have all been Aspen’s extended family through this ordeal, and I’m so grateful for each and every one of you.

Thank you for believing in us, standing by us, and helping to write this beautiful next chapter for Aspen.

— Liam & Aspen