On June 4, 2025, my world was shattered. My dogs, Xena and Lucy, were in their own yard — their safe place, their home — when they were shot multiple times with a BB gun. Xena didn’t survive. Losing her in such a violent, senseless way broke something in me that I’m still trying to put back together.

Anyone who has ever loved an animal knows they’re not “just pets.” They’re family. Xena was my baby. Lucy is still traumatized. And I’ve been trying to heal from something no one should ever have to witness or live through.

The person responsible was convicted, but the consequences he received were minimal compared to the pain, fear, and loss this caused. I’ve been doing everything I can to move forward, to rebuild some sense of safety and peace. But today, I was served with papers — he is now attempting to file a restraining order against me, accusing me of harassment and stalking. After everything that has already happened, this feels like another blow I wasn’t prepared for.

I’m scared. I’m overwhelmed. And I’m exhausted from fighting battles I never asked for.

I am currently unemployed and don’t have the financial means to hire an attorney to defend myself. I never imagined I’d be in a position where I’d have to ask for help just to protect myself, but here I am. I need support to stand up for my rights and make sure I’m not taken advantage of in a system that already feels stacked against me.

If you’re able to donate, share, or even just send a kind word, it truly means the world to me. Thank you for reading my story, for caring, and for helping me fight for justice, safety, and healing.