Lori and Fern: A Story of Hope and Healing

Hello.

My name is Lori LeBron and I'm reaching out to you on behalf of my sweet calico, Fern. Fern is approximately 15 years old and has struggled with a serious heart murmur her entire life. She and I have been together since she came into the Humane Society over 14 years ago. Now in her senior years, her poor, overworked heart is growing weaker, and she was recently diagnosed with DVD, Degenerative Heart Disease, by the cardiology department at VCA in San Diego. She is retaining fluid in her chest.

On July 1, 2025, she was seen by the veterinary cardiology department where she was tapped to remove the fluids. I was told she could continue to retain fluid, which could obstruct her heart and kidneys, as well as other vital organs.

Fern is on Furosemide 12.5mg tablets and Atenolol 25mg/ml suspension daily. Another appointment with the cardiologist is upcoming.

Presently, the cost for this unexpected treatment and examination from the veterinary office and then from VCA Cardiology comes to $3,800. More monitoring, treatments and medications are inevitable to keep this sweet, brave girl as comfortable as possible in her senior years.

I am a senior on SSI and was just let go of my parttime job for a senior training program, SER Jobs for Progress, as it now has limited government funding to pay its trainees.

Fern has traveled the country with her dog brothers and sisters, warned us of dangers in the woods and deserts, was lost in the desert for five weeks before finally being found, and now lives in a senior community in southern California.

I've written a book on one of her doggy sisters titled, "The Dog with No Eyes," available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. In this true story Fern also stands out as a brave cat that loves exploring new places as much as her mom does. I hope you check it out. I'm working on getting it into audio form. You can also check out Fern on our YouTube channel BeagleEase Living Free and Instagram at beagleease. She really is an amazing cat that is truly a miracle cat with all of her heart issues throughout her life. She deserves the best I can afford to give her.

Thank you so much for helping us with any dollar amount you can spare. And please share. We would really appreciate it. Bless you.

Lori LeBron and Fern