Calling on the beautiful souls I’ve met through rescue

I’m reaching out today for two of the most cherished souls in my life—my dear friend Sergio and his African grey parrot, Shaq.

Their bond was born from heartbreak, after the tragic loss of Shaq’s original owner. But from that loss, something incredible has grown. Every day, Sergio and Shaq have shown what it means to choose love, to rebuild trust, and to become family. My husband and I have had the honor of witnessing their journey, and we now consider them part of our own.

Recently, a black mass was found under Shaq’s wing. Without hesitation, we got him to Dr. Rich at the Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital of New Orleans. A biopsy revealed that Shaq will need five weeks of carbonation injections, followed by a wing amputation. It’s a tough road ahead—but there is hope, and now we’re holding on tightly to that.

This is where I need your help. ❤️

I want to ease the emotional and financial burden for Sergio, who has given his whole heart to this bird. If you know me, you know I rarely ask for help like this—my “rescue style” usually means filling our home with as many animals as we can fit (and then a few more, as my husband likes to point out ).

I know not everyone feels comfortable donating through social media, and I completely respect that. But if you feel a tug on your heart, any donation—big or small—would help lighten the load. And if you can’t give, a share would mean the world to us too. We are looking to raise the $1300 that would cover at least the first grouping of injections and his wing amputation.

If we are so lucky to exceed our goal, any extra donations will be given directly to the incredible rescue organizations we hold close to our hearts—those who continue the hard, tireless work day in and day out for the animals who need it most.

Let’s come together for Shaq and Sergio. Love built their bond, and I believe love can help carry them through.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart. ️❤️‍