Bella is 8 and a half years old, and she has been the light of my life since I brought her home at just 9 months old. A family could no longer care for her, and from that moment on, she became not only my best friend but also my greatest source of comfort and emotional support.

Through the years, Bella has faced challenges with incredible courage. Moving to four different homes brought her stress, and at only 5 years old she was diagnosed with asthma. Even then, with medications and an inhaler, she never let it dim her spirit. Bella has always been playful, loving, and full of life—zooming through rooms, leaping onto her wall mounts, and living each moment with joy, even when it meant risking an asthma flare. Her zest for life has always shone brighter than any obstacle.

Together, we’ve shared countless adventures. She’s camped with me in New Hampshire, explored the woods, joined me on car rides, and even sat in on Dungeons & Dragons games. Bella once climbed Stone Tower in Lynn Woods, and afterward we celebrated with a trip to Starbucks for her favorite treat—a Pup Cup, or as I call it, a Kitty Cup. Every journey was filled with laughter and love, and I always made sure she was safe and cherished.

Bella has been spoiled with toys and treats, because I believe our pets’ lives are far too short not to be filled with joy. She has given me more love than I could ever ask for, and I’ve tried to give her the same in return.

Recently, Bella was diagnosed with large cell lymphoma in her small intestine, along with another cancerous lymph node. The cancer is aggressive, and because it has already spread, surgery is not an option. She is also anemic from the tumor. For now, she is on medication and undergoing chemo—not to extend her life, but to keep her comfortable and happy for the time she has left, which doctors estimate may be between 4 and 11 months.

When that time comes, I want Bella to be honored in a way that reflects her beauty and the love she has given me. I’ve found a pet preservation service in California called Precious Creatures, where her remains can be preserved with dignity. I hope to honor her bones, tail, and one paw, and to keep a piece of her fur shaped into a heart—so I can always hold onto the memory of her soft, obsidian black coat.

These services are costly, and with my income, living alone, and caring for Bella’s comfort, I cannot do this alone. I am asking for help—not just for me, but for Bella. She deserves to be remembered in beauty, for the joy, love, and companionship she has given every single day of her life.