Hello! I am 16 years old. I’ve been in foster care for the past 5 years after both of my parents’ rights were terminated. Growing up, I was never able to keep my pets. My parents would give me animals only to take them away, and even in foster care I had to leave pets behind when placements changed.

When I rescued Widow, I was promised she would always stay with me. Widow is not just a pet—she is my family. She is sweet, affectionate, vocal, and always by my side, especially on the hardest days. I can’t imagine my life without her.

Widow’s Health Struggle

Recently, Widow suddenly began losing her balance. At first, she stumbled, but within days she was falling when trying to jump down from even short distances. We rushed her to urgent care, where tests were done but gave no answers. She has now been referred to a neurologist and has an appointment at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center on October 1st.

Widow will need an MRI that costs around $4,000—and that’s just for diagnosis, not treatment.

Why I’m Asking for Help

My foster parents love Widow and take good care of her, but they are raising 8 children. While they can afford everyday animal care, this kind of unexpected emergency is beyond their means. Foster care is not for profit, and I work as a youth advocate, but I simply cannot come up with this kind of money on my own.

Widow is my everything. After years of instability and loss, she is the first pet I’ve been allowed to truly call mine. I want to give her the chance she deserves.

How You Can Help

Any donation, no matter the size, would mean the world to me. Every dollar goes directly toward Widow’s medical care so she can get the tests and treatment she needs.

If you cannot donate, sharing my story also helps more than you know.

Thank you for reading and for caring about Widow and me.