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Support Suzy's Cancer Treatment Journey

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To all my friends, family, loved ones, fellow dog moms, and those who care-

My name is Suzy. I live with my mom, Lucia, who takes excellent care of me, my little sister Peggy, and Nala, the cat. In mid-May, overnight, my mom noticed that my left eye was bulging and that I had no skin on the left side of my nose. We thought it was an abscess, as I have had one before, but it had nothing to do with my eye, only my cheek. This time was different. My mom made an appointment with the vet immediately, as she was worried about me. The vet quickly checked me and said it was not an abscess and that what I had was severe and could be a tumor. They told me I needed to go to an ophthalmologist since it was behind the eye. My mom quickly made an ophthalmologist appointment in San Francisco, so we traveled over the bridge and through the city. The ophthalmologist was very kind, as was all the staff. However, she conceded with my primary vet that it was most likely a tumor, and she wanted to take out my left eye. She then sent me to a specialist in Lafayette, CA. The specialist is optimistic about my treatment, and I can keep my left eye, but I will need chemotherapy to fight the cancer. Through x-rays and scans, it has not spread to other parts of my body. We need help.

I know that I mean the world to my mom, Lucia. I am the inspiration for her starting her pet care business, as she loves pets. I have been by her side through good times and bad, especially after the sudden death of her father, my grandpa, in 2021. I have been with Lucia through thick and thin, always providing the unconditional love and joy that she needs to keep going.
Those of you who know us understand that we are not usually the ones to ask for help, but the importance of keeping me healthy and happy far outweighs any hesitation.
The estimated cost for my treatment is to be determined, but it is at least $3000 to be seen by an oncologist and start undergoing chemotherapy. Afterward, it will be about $1000 or less per visit every other week since my mom will be giving me chemotherapy pills at home. My mom got me this far, spending approximately $8000 to get the diagnosis and begin the chemo, along with all the medication, including the eye drops, which I need every two hours. She uses her Nationwide Pet Insurance and Care Credit while working hard to pay out of pocket. It is getting beyond her financial reach, and she wants to know that she is doing everything possible to get me well. She is taking more pets to board, will not take a vacation this year, and is working to find a second job. I need chemotherapy, and my mom, Lucia, is going at this alone, and she needs help. She is even looking into foundations and aid from non-profits but has had no luck so far. Please let us know if anyone knows a non-profit or an organization that can help with this type of aid as well.

I am eating, drinking, barking, and behaving well, and I am taking my medicines, but I am antsy because I want to play and be healthy. My birthday was on 06/16. I turned 12 years old, and it's doubly special because it is Father's Day. I know how much Lucia misses her dad, my grandpa, and I know I can get through this treatment because I am a strong and resilient girl. I have a lot of life and joy to give, and I know I am worth everything to Lucia!

My mom and I humbly ask for your support to help cover my treatment costs. Any contribution, no matter how small, will make a significant difference and bring us one step closer to giving me the care I need. No donation is too small, and everything counts. If you are unable to donate, please share this campaign and my story with others.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading my story and any support you can offer.
We are deeply grateful for your kindness and generosity.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Suzy, Lucia, and my little sister Peggy!
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    Co-organizers (2)

    Lucia MENDEZ
    Organizer
    San Leandro, CA
    Daniel Winer
    Co-organizer

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