Hi everyone! I want to start off by saying thank you for even taking the time to read our story. Donation or not, it means more than I can express. My name is Lydia, I’m 23, and I have one sweet kitty, Opie. Opie is 2 years old, a non-standard munchkin, and my little soulmate. He’s my emotional support, the light during all my dark days, my best friend. And I’m his too. I’m sure all my fellow pet parents understand our connection and know that it’s no exaggeration. To say he is my world is truly an understatement.

But I’ll cut to the chase here. He has just been diagnosed with a medial patellar luxation condition. Which in dummy terms means his kneecaps slip in and out of their grooves almost constantly, causing lameness and immobility. There are 4 stages of this condition, 4 being pretty much untreatable. Both of his back legs are at a stage 3. So… you can see my concern. Concern that he will hit stage 4 before I can afford his surgery, concern that I’ll have to watch him struggle to get into his litter box for the rest of his life, concern that the “rest of his life” only means just a few more years. Concern that I can’t give him the care he needs. Concern I’ll have to see the best part of my life end.

The bilateral surgery required for his legs (as well as the consultation pre-surgery) has been estimated to be around $6500. I truly lost all hope hearing this. But good news—the hospital that does this procedure offers a payment plan stretched over 9 months, which quite literally made me cry happy tears. I can do that. The problem I’m facing now is the 30% down payment required with the payment plan, which (give or take) would be around $1950. I’ve considered calling my bank for a loan, pulling out credit cards, and last but not least, creating a GoFundMe and begging people for help. So, here I am. Terrified, and equally hopeful.

Our deepest gratitude, signed Lydia and Opie.