Hello friends and supporters,

I never imagined needing to create this fundraiser, but after the last few months, we truly need help to get through this moment.

I’m a single mom to Ava and the sole caregiver and financial support for our animal sanctuary. Until recently, I’ve managed to cover everything on my own — but a serious medical crisis changed that.

After months of unexplained fevers, I was diagnosed with typhoid. Shortly after, Ava became ill with influenza, and then I did as well. My illness progressed into pneumonia, and my left lung collapsed. I should have been hospitalized, but I couldn’t afford admission or leave my child and the animals. All medical care and testing were paid fully out of pocket.

Thankfully, my lung has reopened and I’m finally feeling better, though there is permanent scarring and ongoing risk. I’m incredibly grateful to be recovering — but financially, everything has been drained.

Why we need help right now

The sanctuary is entirely self-funded, and I’m currently behind on basic expenses. I’m especially concerned about losing our feed and grass suppliers, which would be devastating for the animals and extremely difficult to recover from.

Our immediate and specific needs

Urgent need:

$250 USD to keep our grass supplier paid

Total goal for this month:

$2,000 USD to cover essential expenses, including:

Grass for cows and horses

Pellets, rice bran, and animal feed

Electricity

Food

Scooter rental and basic transport

This fundraiser is intended as a short-term bridge to stabilize us after a medical emergency — not ongoing support. I’m happy to share a full breakdown of expenses with anyone who would like more details.

If you’re able to contribute in any amount, or even share this fundraiser, it would mean more than I can put into words. Thank you for standing with us during a very difficult season.

With deep gratitude,

Lauren & Ava