Help Valentino Get An MRI

Hello friends, family, and strangers. My name is Gabby and I am raising money for my precious and extremely problematic cat Valentino. I got Valentino from a rescue in 2022. Since the moment I got him I was unfortunately faced with issue after issue and huge medical bills. Right after I got him in 2022 he was diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, which was determined after he received an ultrasound and ran several tests. As a result of this diagnoses he has to eat special and extremely expensive food. He also has to take vitamins and a probiotic every day. This diagnosis meant that he also had to take steroids. He took varying amounts of steroids for over a year and eventually he made almost a full recovery. It seemed like his condition was being managed and that he had a long life ahead of him.

However, he simultaneously was fighting chronic ringworm, which we tried everything to get rid of. Even despite our best efforts his ringworm was very stubborn and would not go away. It even caused a two masses to develop at the base of his neck, both of which had to be removed with surgery. Currently, we were seeing a dermatologist who was helping us treat Val's ringworm. She recommended giving him sulfur baths. These baths seemed to be working, and yet again he was recovering. We truly thought that the worst of it was behind us and that Val was thriving. We were so relieved and had a positive outlook on what the rest of his life was going to look like. I also want to add that every time we tested him to see if his ringworm was gone it costs hundreds of dollars. Lastly, Val also kept getting recurring ear infections. Needless to say, him and I have been through a lot. He is such a little guy and I don't know how much more he can endure.

It is very disheartening and painful because I have come to realize that the rescue where I purchased him from likely knew that Valentino had several underlying medical conditions, but did not inform me. This rescue has since received multiple charges relating to transporting sick animals, operating as a nonprofit without the appropriate credentials, and money laundering. There is no question that life with Valentino has posed me with a lot of challenges he is also my greatest source of joy. He has changed my life for the better and showed me what unconditional love is. I loved him the moment I laid eyes on him and will love him forever. I only want what is best for him and to provide him with adequate care.

Unfortunately though, on 7/17/25 I rushed him to the vet after he suddenly started limping. He could barely stand up. After a brief examination the vet ruled out that it was an orthopedic problem or an injury. She suspects that Valentino is suffering from a neurological disorder. In order to confirm this diagnosis Valentino will have to get a MRI. This will cost approximately $5000. Then, treatment and next steps will be identified. I am creating this GoFund me to raise money for Val's medical expenses. If you really know me, you know how much Valentino means to me. He has been by my side through some of the most difficult parts of my life and is so friendly, playful, and lovable. He just celebrated his 6th birthday and I feel like he has so much life left to live. I know that the world is absolute madness right now and that prices are higher than ever before and completely understand if you are not able to donate, but if you have gotten this far and read this and are willing to donate I would be eternally grateful. Thank you for your support. It means so much to Valentino and I.