In September 2025, at only 4 years old, my cat Frankie was diagnosed with a super uncommon type of agressive sarcoma, which resulted in her losing her back left leg. Thankfully her xrays prior to the surgery were clear of any current signs of another mass elsewhere in her body. Due to how agressive the type of cancer is, the vet recommended to see a specialist. After visiting the oncologist, we discussed the next steps to take after the amputation, which ended up being radiation followed with chemo. I was told that if left untreated, we are looking about 2 years before the cancer would become an issue again which could be life threatening. That being said, radiation and chemo is going to be super expensive.

This has all been super difficult and I have just been wanting to do anything and everything I can to make sure Frankie has the best quality of life. My cats are everything to me, they are part of my family, so with the oncologists strong recommendation since she is a young cat, I decided to go with the radiation. As there are not any treatment centers nearby, I was given two suggestions of where to go, both being about 3-4 hours away. Her radiation treatment will be through a reputable universities veterinary teaching hospital, as it is closer to family who can help with getting Frankie to and from appointments and it is a bit more affordable than the other recommended center.

Frankie has thrived so far being a tripod and going about her day to day life. I have noticed, as well as been told by a friend, she seems to be much happier and livelier after her leg amputation.

We are fundraising to help cover the costs of Frankie's radiation and chemo treatments.

My time with Frankie-

I got Frankie when she was about 6 months old in 2021. She was the kitten of a pregnant stray my parents took in. After moving into a bigger space, I was thinking about getting a second cat, at the same time my mom was looking for homes for the kittens. She suggested I try giving Frankie a chance. Soon after introductions, Frankie and Ghost, my other cat, became best friends.

After 4 years together, we added more to the family. During the summer I fostered 2 kittens (Sasquatch and Selkie), through my job at the Humane Society, which ended with me adopting them. Frankie was hesitant for the first few weeks, and it took Ghost a few months, however after being around them long enough she eventually gave in and tolerated them enough to give them lots of love to the point where they are obsessed with her, especially Selkie. 

Anyone who meets her, instantly falls in love with her. She not only receives lots of love but gives it in return. When i’m not feeling well, she is one of my main sources of comfort. Whether she is sitting on my chest, by my side, or in my lap, she is constantly purring which helps keep me grounded. I honestly don’t know what i’d do without her.