Israel Cepeda

The Story ​I am writing this in tears and absolute desperation. My Shiba Inu, Tucker, is dying because of a housing nightmare that has spiraled into criminal negligence—and the system designed to protect us has walked away. ​For months, I have fought for basic human rights: heat, electricity, and safety. Instead, I have been neglected and ignored by RME Management. I have escalated this to the State Senator and State Legislators, yet while the bureaucracy moves at a snail’s pace, a horrific medical emergency has struck with the speed of a predator. ​Because of the hazardous environment we are forced to inhabit, Tucker has developed Myiasis (Flystrike) in his ears. Flesh-eating larvae are literally consuming him alive. ​The Dire Situation ​The Medical Crisis: This is a "silent killer." Without immediate surgical extraction and high-dose IV antibiotics, Tucker will face systemic shock and organ failure within 24 to 48 hours. ​The Legal Failure: This is not just a "pet" emergency. Tucker is my Service Animal/ESA—my primary support system. By willfully refusing to maintain the unit, the landlord has effectively destroyed my medical support and violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Fair Housing Act. ​The Cultural Tragedy: As a Shiba Inu, Tucker belongs to a breed designated as a National Natural Monument of Japan. He is a living piece of history and a protected treasure, yet he is being treated as disposable trash by a corrupt management system. ​The Goal: A Lifeline for Innocence ​I am not just fighting for a roof; I am fighting for the life of my best friend. I have been stripped of my resources fighting this year-long battle. Every cent of these funds will go to his emergency surgery, post-op care, and the aftercare required to save his life. ​Beyond the vet, this is about Rebuilding our Foundation. We are taking the fight to RME Management and the City of New York. We are standing up against Contempt of Court and the abandonment of disabled tenants. ​Why Your Voice Matters ​Tucker has stayed by my side through the darkest hours of this crisis. I cannot let him die because the system failed us both. Please, if you can spare $5 or share this link, you are helping to bring global awareness to a broken system that leaves the disabled to "Survive or Die." ​You are giving him a chance to see the day we finally have a safe home. People deserve to understand how the law truly protects their rights—because in the end, the only one truly there fighting to protect you is yourself. ​Time is running out for a National Monument. Time is running out for my soulmate. Please help me save Tucker.