My journey with Leu began nearly 5 years ago. I was in the midst of a deep depression when I saw her photo online, fell in love, and went to visit her. I was the third party to show interest but the first person with whom she wanted to interact. After 5 years with her first family, she wanted to be certain. She chose me just as much as I chose her.

By the end of our first night together, Leu had become the best friend I’ve ever had and has since provided me with emotional support that I’ve never found elsewhere. I genuinely can’t imagine life without her. I had been spending days, sometimes weeks, at a time in my apartment, but Leu got me out of the house several times every day—and eventually out of that dark depression. I loved taking her to play; I loved seeing her happy. It felt healing. I began hiking again—a long-forgotten favorite hobby—with my best friend, actively seeking out trails with river access for her enjoyment. I felt alive again.

Leu was the first to show me unconditional love, loyalty, and safety. She’s helped me to weather the worst storm of my life, always carrying joy to light my darkest moments. She taught me that seeking fun and happiness is critical to healing my nervous system. The love is mutual. I promised her to always give her my best.

Recently, things have changed drastically for us. Due to arthritis and degenerative joint disease, both of Leu’s hips dislocated themselves as their joints became necrotic. She is in tremendous pain and cannot walk at all. Thus, she needs major surgery: one femoral head ostectomy on each hip. The cost is astronomical, but what matters most to me is that she gets to enjoy life again.

Leu’s surgery date is immediate: she’ll be in the operating room on Thursday, March 5th. Please help me to raise the necessary funds to save the light of my entire life. No amount is too small, and any amount helps.

Thank you so much.