Friends. I took my 16-year-old buddy Newt to the vet because of a peeing trouble issue, only to find that in addition to 4-5 medical possibilities for that, she also has a lesion (eosinophilic granuloma) on her tongue. This hit right after I had paid my rent and bills for the month.

My trusted vet (of 20 years) feels it’s unlikely surgery will be needed for the lesion, that steroids will take care of it — if Newt’s heart, liver, and kidneys are up for that. But we can’t begin to treat her on either issue until diagnostic tests are done (lab profile, blood work, urinalysis, cultures, X-rays, check on Newt’s heart murmur) — and time is, unfortunately, of the essence.

The immediate cost to start diagnostics is $1,227. There will be meds for both issues on top of that (I don’t know how much until lab tests determine what meds Newt needs). There will be at least two new vet visits ($80 minimum each). I’m suspecting as-yet-unknown expenses in addition, but it’s impossible to make a final tally until we know what all we’re dealing with.

I’m probably lowballing but hope to achieve $1,750. I need to get her in for the first diagnostics within a few days.

My embarrassment to ask for help has given me major anxiety but my concern over Newt’s urgent health issues outweighs that completely. I don’t get residuals on films I’ve done, rather a modest Social Security. I was in a better financial position when I got Newt 16 years ago —but was not thinking at the time how we would grow old together.

I’m deeply grateful for any help. I know things suck for everyone right now (especially those in film/publishing). Good thoughts and shares are appreciated as well. Newt’s pal Annie says thanks, too (even though she’s peeved that I now have to give Newt more soft treats than her).

I promise to keep everyone updated and pay it forward. Again, thank you so much for any help. It is greatly appreciated.