My heart is breaking. My best friend, Mazi, a sweet and adorable little bird, is fighting for his life. Mazi hatched 25 years and one month ago, and we’ve been inseparable ever since. He’s more than “just a pet”; he’s family.

Mazi (pronounced: MAH-zee) fills my life with music, dancing, chirps, and tweets. He loves calling to me… and through the window, tries to invite in passersby for a visit. He tilts his head, looks into my eyes, and says, "I love you." He's taught me lots of really goofy, silly, and funny games, and always has me trying to catch my breath from laughing so hard. The most wonderful thing is that, for almost as long as he's been with me, he likes sleeping with me—UNDER THE COVERS! He’s incredibly gentle and always anticipates my moves. In the morning, he’ll work his way up to my face, give me a light kiss, and then says: "Good morning." Then we play for a while.

Short of a year ago, he began getting sick. After many costly visits to Mazi’s local avian veterinarian, Dr. Wheelbarger, none of her tests revealed the problem. She finally recommended The BIRD Place, where Dr. Nemetz, a world-renowned avian veterinarian, could provide specialized care.

Dr. Nemetz is known for developing microscopic surgeries and creating specialized surgical tools. Because of his expertise, he attends the annual international conference as both their keynote speaker and to advise other avian vets.

I drove Mazi down to Orange County (from Santa Clarita) for extensive testing. Dr. Nemetz suspected a tumor and after further tests, confirmed it. Mazi needs surgery to remove an irregularly-shaped cancerous tumor.

This surgery is scheduled for Wednesday, March 12, 2025. I'll stay overnight nearby so I can be there when Dr. Nemetz arrives early Thursday morning. I’m terrified, but I love Mazi with all my heart, and this surgery is his only chance.

Living on a fixed income of $453 a month has already drained my savings. The mounting vet bills are overwhelming, and I’m facing financial devastation. I’ve saved every invoice and am happy to share them for transparency. You can speak with Dr. Wheelbarger (661.253.9300) or Dr. Nemetz (714.633.2910) yourself.

This is incredibly difficult for me to ask, but I need your help. I’m reaching out through this amazing service in hopes of raising enough funds to cover Mazi's surgery and care. Every dollar will go directly to saving my precious Mazi and giving him many more years of life.

Please, if you can, consider donating to Mazi's surgery fund. Your generosity will not only help save his life but will also mean the world to me. Every little bit helps, and your support will bring me to tears of gratitude. Thank you for your kindness and compassion for my darling Mazi.

Love,

Susie