Our sweet Mabel just crossed the rainbow bridge this morning after suddenly being diagnosed with Evans disease. On Sunday, she seemed completely fine—playing with our 4-year-old daughter, eating her favorite carrots and cookies. By Monday, Mabel was a little off, but nothing too alarming. By Tuesday, she wasn’t eating or drinking and seemed very lethargic. Early Wednesday morning, I woke up to find Mabel with blood in her urine and pale gums. I rushed her to the vet, barely able to get her to walk, and her best buddy Titan came along for support.

I got Mabel as a puppy right after returning from my third deployment, which was the hardest of my Navy career. She helped pull me out of a downward spiral and gave me hope when I needed it most. Mabel was my first puppy that I intentionally picked out and traveled to bring home. She filled a hole in my heart and became my emotional support without even knowing it.

I never imagined I’d be the person to spend thousands at the vet, but I couldn’t say no to trying everything for Mabel. The first vet did a diagnostic workup, but she needed more care, so we went to an emergency vet for a blood transfusion and more tests. Despite all efforts, Evans disease was too aggressive, and we had to make the heartbreaking decision to let her go. The costs for her care and cremation have been overwhelming. Any funds donated will go directly to help us pay for Mabel’s vet bills and final arrangements. We are so grateful for any support as we honor her memory and try to heal from this loss.