Woodrow has been my little adventure buddy for most of his 6-year-old life. He loves to hike, swim, and camp with me, and has been a steady supporter through some of my most difficult mental health struggles. No matter what, he’s always by my side, ready to keep me company and remind me that I’m loved.

Recently, Woodrow started showing signs of extreme lethargy, nausea, and a lack of appetite. When I checked him closely, I noticed his gums were pale—a sign that something was seriously wrong. I rushed him to the ER, where he was diagnosed with Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA), a condition where his immune system attacks his own red blood cells. The vet explained that IMHA can be life-threatening, with a mortality rate of 20-80% depending on the cause. After a tense night, we learned that Woodrow’s IMHA was likely triggered by Ehrlichia, a tick-borne bacterial disease. His immune system was fighting the infection but destroying his red blood cells in the process, leaving him dangerously low on oxygen.

The initial ER visit took almost everything I had in the bank, and while my family helped as much as they could, they’re also facing financial difficulties. Woodrow now needs at least one blood transfusion, as well as ongoing check-ups, medication, and possibly more transfusions and ER visits. He’s only six years old and still has so much joy and life left to live. I can’t give up on him, and I’m reaching out for help to give him the best chance at recovery. If you’re able to support us, it would mean the world to both of us. Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to keeping Woodrow by my side for many more adventures.