Support for Because of You Rescue Inc. and Monika Turner After Tragic Loss.

In loving memory of Bill Turner, I am launching this fundraiser for Because Of You Rescue Inc. Bill had a deep passion for animals and believed that every dog deserves a second chance at life.

My name is Coleen Tomlinson and I have been a long-time supporter and current board member of Because of You Rescue, Inc. in Ocala, FL. I created this fundraiser in the hopes that it will bring some relief to both the animal rescue as well as the founder and executive director Monika Turner personally, as her husband of nearly 38 years, Bill Turner, has died unexpectedly.

Because of You Rescue, Inc. (a 501c3) is a small and almost entirely self-funded animal rescue, founded by Monika many years ago. Donations are sporadic and the rescue has been operating on a shoestring budget. Many of the dogs in the rescue have been there for a long time, as some are special needs or have complex medical issues, making adoptions very difficult. Monika has always gravitated towards saving the dogs and cats that are often labeled as “unadoptable.” Many are now seniors. She has closed the rescue to intakes and is trying to keep her head above water caring for the remaining dogs in the rescue. She is currently reaching out to other rescue groups to inquire about the possibility of transferring up to 12 dogs.

Bill Turner was the silent force behind the rescue. Not only was he Monika’s number 1 cheerleader, he spent many hours each day with the larger dogs in the kennels. Their primary source of income was Bill’s monthly social security. They knew how to stretch a dollar and the animals in their care never went without!

Three weeks ago, Bill underwent an “elective” surgical procedure. Unfortunately, due to the events after the surgery, Bill died. I cannot go in to more detail at this time, but this loss could have been prevented.

Not only has this created a financial hardship, his death has devastated Monika. She is left to manage the remaining dogs in the rescue on her own, all while struggling through the grief — and rightful anger regarding the tragic circumstances that occurred during the 3-week post-op period which led to his death.

The short-term needs are to provide any financial assistance that will allow her to lay her husband rest with love and dignity.

The long-term needs are to secure donations for the rescue to help ease the burden as she works through finding homes and placements for the dogs. Many have ongoing medical issues.

When someone chooses to run a rescue, it’s often not a conscious choice, it’s a true calling to help the voiceless — something she a Bill dedicated their lives to, and without him by her side, she has no other alternative other than to proceed with the heartbreaking decision to close the rescue permanently. Running the rescue on her own is just not realistic - especially considering her own health challenges.

Monika would be so very grateful if you are able to help in any way. She has saved countless lives over the years, and now it is time for her to take care of herself.

Thank you for taking the time to read this plea for help.