On December 31, while we were abroad, our cat Yoshi suddenly became very ill. Our trusted friend who was caring for him noticed repeated vomiting and a sudden change in his behavior and immediately brought him to an emergency veterinary hospital in Astoria, Queens.

What followed was every pet parent’s worst nightmare — unfolding from a distance, over phone calls and updates, while we helplessly waited and tried to get home as fast as possible.

Imaging raised concern for a serious intestinal obstruction, and on January 1, Yoshi underwent emergency abdominal surgery. During surgery, doctors found severe intestinal damage and inflammation, and he required an intestinal resection and intensive post-operative care. The medical team suspects ingestion of a foreign or toxic material, though the exact cause has not yet been confirmed, and biopsy results are still pending.

Yoshi fought. He was strong, stable at times, and surrounded by a dedicated veterinary team who monitored him around the clock, managed his pain, provided assisted feeding, and did everything possible to support his recovery.

Despite all efforts, things took a sudden turn for the worse, and Yoshi passed away during recovery on January 4 — before we could make it home to be with him. Not being there, being so close yet not close enough, is a pain we will carry forever.

Yoshi was deeply loved, endlessly gentle, and our constant companion. He was the kind of cat who asked for cuddles every morning, who brought quiet comfort just by being near, and whose presence filled our home in ways that are now painfully absent.

Alongside the heartbreak, we are now facing emergency veterinary bills totaling $10,280, covering surgery, hospitalization, imaging, medications, critical care, and cremation services. We are doing our best to manage these costs while grieving an unimaginable loss.

If you’re able to donate or share this fundraiser, it would mean more than we can put into words. Even sharing helps more than you know. Thank you for holding space for Yoshi and for us during this incredibly painful time.