Milo the Pug healing journey

Hello Friends- there’s been an update: Milo had his surgery and his biopsy and diagnosis was incorrect. Unfortunately, instead of a plasma cell tumor it was malignant thyroid cancer. We are beyond devastated given he’s only 7 and the prognosis for this cancer, with successful surgery is only 1-3 years. This is devastating news and we are meeting with an oncologists 1/17 (it was the first available). The surgical bill came out to $5,894. I don’t know what the road ahead looks like but Milo is a fighter and I want to give him every opportunity to outlive this statistic with quality of life. My heart is heavy but I’m continuing to pray. Thank you all for being so supportive. I have a grateful

heart.

Happy Holidays, my beautiful friends,

I hope this season brings you joy and peace. I wanted to share a life update about someone you all know means the world to me—Milo, the pug.

Milo came into my life in the most unexpected way. Fresh out of college, living in an apartment that didn’t allow dogs, barely figuring out how to adult, and in waddles this tiny, fragile pug puppy from a tough situation in Compton. He was just five weeks old and unprepared for life (honestly, so was I). Milo chose me. And though I wasn’t convinced at first—because, honestly, I was not ready— I decided, “Ok pug, we will figure this out together.”

Over the years, Milo has been my partner through all the ups, downs of adulthood. He’s my little shadow, my constant companion, and on my hardest days has kept me motivated to continue moving forward and trying my best. He’s also been the cause of a lot of laughter and joy.

But now, Milo needs help. A couple weeks ago, I found a lump on his neck, and tests revealed it’s a plasma cell tumor that requires surgery. While we have hope because of his young age, there’s also a secondary issue we’re still investigating. The recovery costs are looking to be around $6,000.

Milo is priceless to me. However, these expenses are unexpected and out of pocket. So, as the holiday season approaches, I humbly offer an idea for consideration: If you were thinking about doing something for me during this season, I’d ask you to consider this instead. The greatest and most meaningful gift you could give is contributing to Milo’s recovery—because, at the end of the day, it’s not material things but health, love, and care that truly matter to me.

Above all, I welcome your prayers and well wishes for Milo’s healing and strength. This is a moment of vulnerability for me, but I’m so blessed for my friendships, family and community and supporters. Thank you for always being there for us and laughing at the Milo stories of his naughty antics.

Thank you for keeping us in your hearts and minds. Wishing you all the happiest of holidays, filled with warmth, gratitude, and the joy of togetherness.