Hi everyone,

I’m not sure how to put this into words, but if you know me, you know Lily. She is my first baby. She’ll be 14 in just a few weeks, and Kirk and I have had her since she was a tiny five-week-old puff of fur.

Lily is a huge part of our daily life... She’s my 3 A.M. bathroom companion, my "assistant editor" when I’m writing stories, a professional hair-tie thief, and a proud hater of most people.

About a year ago, I noticed a small spot on her chest. It stayed small and stable until last night, when we found blood spots all over the house. The spot had doubled in size and erupted through her skin. We got her to the vet immediately, where they confirmed our fear: it’s a mammary tumor.

While the long-term goal is to remove the rest of her mammary glands as a preventative measure, the immediate priority is removing this specific mass ASAP to prevent an infection or pain. Her surgery is scheduled for next Friday.

This hit us so fast, and we simply don't have the funds to cover this emergency surgery on such short notice. We will find a way no matter what, but I am swallowing my pride and asking for a little help for my girl. I’ve spent the last 24 hours worrying about her and her bonded partner, Josef, who is lost without her.

I feel terrible asking, but I love her so much and just want her to be comfortable. Any amount helps. Thank you for even reading this. It means the world to Lily, Josef, Kirk, and me. ❤️