For Penny's Heart

As you all know, Penny  is my child. I adopted her while I was living in
Morocco during my service as a Peace Corps volunteer back in March
of 2014.  Since then she's been with me every step of the way, from our
2 years in Los Angeles and now 1 year in the Bay Area.

Last Tuesday Penny collapsed during one of our walks, she fell onto her
back and started howling in pain. I had no idea what to do as her eyes
rolled back and she wasn't responding to me for about 10 seconds. 
After it was over, she got up as though nothing had happened and I've 
been  simultaneously relieved  and  concerned  ever  since.  

I took  her  to  the  vet  this  morning  and  aside  from  her  ear  infection
(which  I've  know  about  and  have  poured hundreds into treating) she
now also has a substantially  high-grade heart murmur which could
prove  to  be  fatal if not treated.  Penny needs medical work as soon as
possible, which includes an X-ray and full blood work before she can be
given the proper medication that won't complicate things further. 

I  do  everything  I can  to  plan  for  mine  and  Penny's  future,  working 
10  hour days during the week,  taking more gigs on  the  weekends, 
attending night school, and all while making  sure  she  gets  2 walks  a
day rain  or  shine. Had  I only  needed  to  treat  her  ear  infection  I
would  have  had  no problems  making  ends  meet,  but alas,  life  is
fickle.

If you donate more than $10 I'll be sure to send you a wonderful
Christmas card in the mail saying thank you with a lovely photo
collage of my little one. Thank you all ahead of time!

Penny and I love you all.