Help Save Bella: My Best Friend, My Family, My Fighter

Goal: $2,000 | Deadline: August 26th, 2025

Hi, my name is Ryan-Bryce and I’m reaching out from a place I never imagined I’d be — asking for help to save the life of the only soul who’s never left my side: my dog, Bella.

When I moved to the DMV from Kalamazoo, Michigan at 18, I was just trying to survive. As the only gay child in my family, life had been anything but easy. Once I got to DC, I thought things would finally change — and in many ways, they did. But that journey also came with homelessness, health battles, sexual assault, being robbed, and an abusive relationship. I fought through it all, even beating stomach cancer 10 years ago.

At one of my lowest points, I begged my ex for something I had never really known: unconditional love. That’s when Bella came into my life. She was tiny, bright-eyed, and full of more love than I had ever felt. I paid for everything myself — food, vet bills, grooming — because she wasn’t just a pet. She was the love I had prayed for.

For the past 8 years, Bella and I have been through everything together. She’s more than my dog. She’s my healer, my protector, my family.

Recently, Bella had a tumor removed from her mouth. While doing that surgery, the vets discovered something much worse — her liver levels were dangerously high. After more testing, they diagnosed her with a liver dysfunction that requires urgent and ongoing care: surgery, medication, and monitoring. The total cost is $5,294.

I would sell every piece of clothing, every shoe, everything I own to save her — and I’ve started doing just that. But I can’t raise it all alone, so I’m asking for your help.

I’m only trying to raise $2,000 — less than half the cost — to give Bella a fighting chance. She’s saved me more times than I can count. Now I just want to save her.

Whatever you can give — $5, $10, anything — will go directly toward Bella’s treatment. And if you can’t give, please just share this. Prayers and good energy are welcome too.

Thank you for reading. Thank you for caring. And thank you for giving my baby a chance to live the long, healthy life she deserves.

With love and hope,

Ryan-Bryce & Bella