Honoring Cedar & Paying It Forward: Aid for Veterinary Care

Hi, friends, family, and kind-hearted strangers,

For those of you that don’t know me, my name is Alex. I’m reaching out with a very personal story that’s close to my heart. Most of you know, my sweet dog Cedar passed away from cancer recently. Cedar wasn’t just a pet—he was our everything. My husband Jesse & I adopted him just a couple days after my 24th birthday, and from that moment on, he became a cherished member of our family. He had been through so much in his life before he came to us, but over the years, we saw him blossom into the loyal, loving, funny, and brave dog that we came to adore.

When Cedar’s health began to decline, we found ourselves facing overwhelming veterinary bills. It was a sudden turn of events we weren’t prepared for and one of the hardest times of my life. In a moment of desperation, I reached out to my community on Instagram, not knowing what to expect. I felt shame asking for help, but the response was humbling. Friends, family, and even strangers stepped up to donate… incredible. So incredible, so kind… I am forever grateful... There was also one act of kindness that left me beyond speechless: an anonymous Good Samaritan paid a significant portion of Cedar's bills, including the cost of his euthanasia and cremation. It was the most selfless act I’ve ever experienced. I didn’t know how to process the kindness that had been shown to us. Cedar’s final days were made a little easier because of that generosity.

Now, with my birthday approaching, I’m ready to pay it forward. I want to help someone else who is struggling to afford veterinary care for their furbaby, just as we did. I’ve experienced firsthand the emotional and financial strain of trying to save a beloved pet, and I know that any help, no matter how small, can make *all* the difference. Even just $50 was enough to help cover & supply Cedar with some hydration while we waited for Jesse to come home from working on the LA fires. Just enough time to come home and say goodbye...

I’m hoping to raise funds to place donations directly onto the veterinary accounts of families in need at Anderson Veterinary Clinic here in Anderson, CA. Whether it’s to help with emergency care, end-of-life costs, or the treatment of a sick or injured pet, every donation will go directly toward helping pet families who are struggling.

I know asking for donations is a big thing, and I don't take it lightly. But after experiencing such a profound act of kindness, I truly believe that paying it forward is the best way to honor Cedar's memory. Pets are family, and it’s so important to be there for one another during times of need. Your donation, no matter the amount, will have a real, positive impact on someone else’s life and their beloved pet.

This feels especially meaningful as we enter spring— a time of renewal and new life. In a world where there’s so much uncertainty, I want to offer people a way to feel truly good about helping a cause that is close to my heart. It’s a way to bring some light to others in dark times. Thank you