GoFundMe Draft: Help Ruby, My Senior Red Heeler, Get Lifesaving Surgery

Hi friends, family, and fellow dog lovers —

I’m reaching out with a heart full of hope (and a few tears) to ask for help saving the life of my best friend and adventure buddy, Ruby.

Ruby is my 14-year-old red heeler — my trail companion, my travel co-pilot, my shadow, and truly, the center of my world. If you know me, you know she’s not “just a dog.” She’s family.

Recently, Ruby was diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma, a cancerous tumor in her liver. After extensive testing and a CT scan, we learned that the tumor is over 10 cm in size and is pushing on her other organs. Her vet explained that while this kind of tumor doesn't typically cause liver failure, it can — and likely will — cause serious problems if left untreated, including:

• Vomiting, weight loss, loss of appetite

• Risk of emergency bleeding and collapse if the tumor ruptures

Despite the size of the tumor, Ruby is still strong, happy, and full of life. She just walked a full mile after her CT scan like the tough little heeler she is! Her vet believes she’s a good candidate for surgery and has classified the surgical risk as moderate — not without challenges, but worth pursuing because the tumor appears operable, and Ruby still has so much life and love left to give.

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️ Surgery Date: October 29th

Ruby is scheduled for surgery on October 29th. She will stay overnight afterward and begin recovery at home under my care. I’ve planned time off to be with her through the first critical week post-op, and I’m doing everything I can to give her the best chance to heal and thrive.

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Why I’m Asking for Help

The estimate for Ruby’s surgery, hospitalization, and care is between $6,500 and $9,500. GoFundMe takes a small fee from donations, so I’m hoping to raise up to $10,000 to cover:

• Surgery and anesthesia

• Overnight hospitalization

• Imaging, medication, and recovery care

• Post-op lab work and follow-ups

I’m using my available PTO to be home with Ruby, so this fundraiser is entirely for her medical expenses.

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How You Can Help

If you’re able to give — even a small amount — it would mean everything to me and Ruby. If you can’t donate, just sharing her story helps more than you know.

Ruby has been by my side for 14 incredible years. She still loves chasing squirrels, snoozing in the sun, and being wherever I am. I know in my heart she has more good days ahead. This surgery gives her a real chance — not just to live longer, but to live better.

Thank you for being part of Team Ruby.

With so much love and gratitude,

Sheryl & Ruby