Back in August, I found Meeka when she was barely three months old—alone in an outdoor kennel in 90+ degree heat. Her ears were severely eaten, she had open sores under her front legs, and she wasn’t up to date on vaccines or properly dewormed. I couldn’t turn my back on her and leave her in those conditions. From that day forward, I committed to giving her the care, safety, and love she deserved.

Since then, I have worked tirelessly with our veterinarian to catch her up on all necessary medical care and get her on the path to a healthy life. Just when it seemed like she was finally turning a corner, everything changed.

Two weeks ago, it became clear something wasn’t right. After a visit to our local vet, we were sent to Columbus late Wednesday evening, where she was released with a diagnosis of a stomach bug. By Sunday morning, Meeka had declined significantly. With no local emergency options available, I rushed her back to Columbus—where we learned she was suffering from intussusception, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate emergency surgery.

Meeka underwent surgery to remove a portion of her intestines and have them carefully stapled back together. Thanks to quick action and an incredible veterinary team, she made it through.

She is finally home now, recovering—though keeping a curious, energetic 9-month-old puppy calm and confined is no small task. She’s wearing the “cone of shame” for at least 10 days to protect her incision while her body heals and her digestive system continues to function properly. She also has a significant amount of weight to regain, but her strength and spirit continue to amaze me.

I am hopeful this surgery will give Meeka the chance to live the healthy, happy life she’s always deserved.

Unfortunately, the financial impact has been overwhelming. The initial emergency visit on Wednesday was unexpected, and the additional emergency surgery on Sunday brought the total cost to over $10,000. While I would do it all again without hesitation to save her life, the burden has been incredibly difficult.

If you’re able to donate, share, or send prayers and positive energy, it would mean more than words can express. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has already reached out with love and support for Meeka and I.