My name is Katie Twomey, and I'm reaching out to you all with a heavy heart for my beloved English Bulldog, Starla. Starla is nearly 2 years old, and she's usually a bundle of energy and joy. However, about a week ago, I noticed something wasn't right. Starla began to struggle to walk, and by Thursday of last week, she was in excruciating pain, squealing and screaming.

Desperate to help her, I took her to two different veterinarians, both of whom had differing opinions. Finally, today, we visited a neurologist, as Starla's pain wasn't subsiding even with intense pain medications. The neurologist diagnosed her with a herniated disc, a condition that requires urgent attention.

Starla isn't just a pet to me; she's family. As a brittle type 1 diabetic, she's been my constant companion and source of comfort. With my health condition, she's the closest thing I have to a child, and the thought of her suffering breaks my heart.

The neurologist has recommended an MRI, which alone comes with a hefty price tag of $6500. If surgery is required, the cost skyrockets to nearly $15,000. As much as I wish I could cover these expenses on my own, it's simply beyond my means.

UPDATE: The neurologist does not believe that Starlas symptoms will improve without surgery. It was recommended that I get surgery tomorrow but I lack the financial means to cover the procedure.

MRI: $6,544.49

MRI & SURGERY: $14,611.04

That's why I'm turning to you, the compassionate community, for help. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a world of difference in Starla's journey to recovery. Your kindness will not only relieve her pain but also bring back the joy and energy she's known for.

Please consider donating and sharing this fundraiser with your friends and family. Together, we can give Starla the chance she deserves to live a happy, pain-free life.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart,

Katie Twomey and Starla