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Hey guys,
I had a terrifying moment witnessing my beloved animal, Alpha (Alph', Alphie, Alphabear) literally almost die in the ER. The scariest moment was definitely when the doctor took me aside (as five nurse technicians surrounded my cat and the EKG went from flashing-yellow to solid red) and explained that Alpha could pass away at any moment.
"Do I have your permission to perform CPR if he does?" he asked me.
I said of course.
I think that's when the metaphorical dam broke. I wasn't ready for this. For - yes - my best friend of 6 years to die. I adopted this little guy - met him on my trash can one day after work - just a couple months after my mom died in 2015... to say he's been a support animal for me over the years is just the tip of the iceberg.
I've learned how animals teach you about unconditional love. I've gotten off the ground (metaphorically, and literally) because I knew I wanted no one else to raise him but me -- and I couldn't give up no matter how dark things got. Alpha has comforted, licked, been affectionate, and made me laugh no matter what kind of situation I've gone through... he's truly my rock.
This creature has saved my life, and - I have a lot of guilt about this - but due to the late timing of me getting him to the ER, Alpha almost lost his own life...
⇣This GoFundMe is to make up for the cost of the literally life-saving operations of mind-blowing team at Veterinary Emergency Group (in Alpharetta).
This experience has truly changed me. I wasn't ready for him to pass away, and he didn't. Alpha - my little (gentle) warrior - PULLED THROUGH. It's so easy to take animals for granted, but I won't/can't anymore; this incident will always serve as my cornerstone to stay grounded.
I've been through plenty of scary experiences, but having his life completely in the hands of the "unknown"; surrendering to what-could-be was by far the scariest thing I've ever endured (it was traumatizing, to be honest). However, I am undeniably humbled, and it has taught me immense lessons about love, life, death, money, and fear.
Creating GoFundMe campaigns for others seems to be so much easier than creating one for yourself, but I'm taking a shot here to create one to make-up for the cost of his life-saving surgery.
I swear, I'm not sure what would've happened if I had brought him in 1 hour later..... I am so grateful I went when I did... and as I spoke with the doctor, now I know what to look for. With some environmental changes made, the chance of this ever occurring again is LOW (15% maximum). Any additional funds would be used for these environmental changes (i.e., more litter boxes, water fountains, prescription cat food of course).
What was wrong with him?
He had a life-threatening urinary bladder infection that had him severely "blocked," so he was unable to excrete normal toxins and waste through his urinary track. His bladder was huge (and filled - I mean FILLED - with blood. Looking at the picture of it is scary... looks like a blood donor bag. No, I won't include it here :P ) His potassium levels were so high, they couldn't even get a reading at first... apparently, even in humans, high potassium levels can cause cardiac arrest.
I will never forget that veterinary group; I'll be recommending them to any pet owner in a dire situation.
No dollar or cent will go unappreciated. These animals (Alpha is one of my four cats) are all so kind and sacred to me... they are who I come home to - and who I miss dearly every time - I leave my home on a trip. They ARE family.
I'm so grateful Alpha is alive, and I created this GoFundMe to help me with this setback (which is both *financial* and mental...). When it's life or death, trust me: your priorities get straightened out. :)
I love and miss all of my friends and connections I've made over the years, and I want MORE of these moments with you guys... just trying my best not to let this very expensive learning lesson/near-death-situation set me back too much.
Much love to you all, and I hope to reconnect with the wonderful souls I've been lucky enough to meet on my path thus far.
Sincerely,
Grace xx
P.S.: GET YOURSELF AN ANIMAL... worth it. It'll change your life.