Paws for a Cause: Please help restore Rizzo’s sight

Hi, my name is Stacy. I am an American living in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where I have been for 14 years. I’m lucky to have a fantastic circle of friends here, but my family is all back in the States—except for one very special member: my incredible dog, Rizzo.

Rizzo and I have been inseparable for eight wonderful years. She was rescued from a kill shelter when she was still very young, and her life was hanging in the balance. I was heartbroken to think she might not make it, but two amazing women (Deirdre and Louise) stepped in to help save her until I could bring her home. Since then, she has been my rock, my joy, and my family.

Recently, Rizzo’s health has taken a challenging turn. What started as a suspected UTI turned out to be diabetes, and we faced some terrifying days trying to stabilize her blood sugar levels. Thanks to the incredible care of Clare and the team at Cornerstone Vets, we finally got her diabetes mostly under control. But just as we were turning a corner, another blow hit: Rizzo rapidly developed cataracts, which could lead to glaucoma and possible eye removal. This is why I am anxious to have her undergo this surgery as soon as possible for the best outcome.

Watching my once happy, independent girl struggle has been heartbreaking. She has gone from carefree and curious to cautious and anxious, bumping into things she can no longer see. She now clings to me, afraid of the world around her. It is devastating to see her confidence fade.

Through it all, Rizzo has shown extraordinary resilience. Despite not being a fan of the injections, multiple daily blood tests, or eye drops, she has adapted to her new routine like a champ. But complications, including recurrent bladder infections, have made her journey even more challenging. One morning, I found she had passed large blood clots, leading to yet another emergency trip to the vet to find E. Coli in her bladder.

We have worked so hard to stabilize her health to make cataract surgery possible, and finally, we are ready. Her vets and surgeon have given her a clean bill of health and are confident that she is a great candidate for cataract surgery. We are all so pleased with her continual progress and stability with her health and look forward to her many years ahead with a wonderful quality of life. Her operation was scheduled for December 11th, but today, I received a call offering an earlier date—this coming Wednesday. It is incredible news, but it is also overwhelming because I have not yet secured the entire funds for her surgery.

As someone who works with costumes in film and TV, the past few years have been financially difficult, especially after the pandemic. I have also returned to university to work on my graduate studies to become a teacher, hoping to transition to a career with more stability and manageable hours. Finding the funds for this life-changing surgery has been an uphill battle between work, studying, and caring for Rizzo.

The cost for surgery is approximately £4,500 for both eyes. On top of that, there are medications, eye drops, and follow-up care. It is daunting, but I can’t give up on Rizzo. She is my world, and I would do anything to help her restore her sight and confidence.

I would never ask for help for myself, but for Rizzo, I am asking. It would mean everything if you can support us in any way, no matter how small. Every single £1 brings us closer to giving Rizzo a chance to see the world again—to see her friends at the park, to wander happily and freely as she used to. Your donations will help cover the cost of the surgery and any further check-ups or medications.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading our story and considering helping my girl. Your kindness means more than I can ever express.