Malissa Vazquez

Help Scarlett Heal Scarlett is currently under veterinary care and being medically stabilized. To protect her welfare and allow medical providers to do their work without interference, details regarding her location and long-term placement are being withheld at this time. A few nights ago, I was contacted about a dog in desperate need of help. The information I received was that Scarlett had been found tied up and abandoned in the Bronx. While the circumstances leading up to her condition remain unclear, what was immediately obvious was the extent of her suffering. Scarlett arrived severely underweight and in need of urgent medical attention. Her ears were heavily infected, her paws were raw and painful from ruptured blisters, and her body showed signs of prolonged neglect. She was covered in dirt, dander, scars, and skin irritation. Despite everything she has endured, she remains gentle, resilient, and eager to trust. We may never know exactly what happened to Scarlett. What we do know is that she deserves the chance to heal. Right now, our focus is not blame, speculation, or placement. Our focus is recovery. Funds are being managed through an established rescue partner and will be used solely for Scarlett's care. Medical invoices and updates will be shared as they become available. Current and anticipated medical needs include: • Comprehensive veterinary examinations and diagnostics • Bloodwork and additional testing as recommended by her medical team • Skin diagnostics and treatment • Ear cytology and medications for infection • Treatment of secondary infections • Nutritional rehabilitation and specialized diet support • Paw wound care and ongoing treatment • Possible allergy evaluation and management • Vaccinations and preventative care once medically stable • Spay surgery, if not already completed • Transportation to and from veterinary appointments • Any additional treatments deemed necessary during her recovery Every dollar raised will go directly toward helping Scarlett heal and giving her the opportunity to experience the life every dog deserves: one free from pain, neglect, and uncertainty. Thank you for supporting Scarlett's journey. Updates will be shared as she progresses through treatment and recovery. She is safe. She is receiving care. And for the first time in a long time, she has a chance.

The Anarchy of My Memories People often ask why I care so deeply about abandoned animals. The answer is simple. I know what it feels like to be left behind. Before I understood trauma, I understood survival. Before I understood recovery, I understood hiding. The gardens came later. Then the dogs. Then the slow and painful realization that healing does not always arrive through people. Sometimes it arrives shaking in the rain, tied to a bench after a storm. I’ve spent the last few years rebuilding a memoir called The Anarchy of My Memories — a story about survival, trauma, recovery, domestic violence, mental health systems, medical compromise, and the unexpected ways rescued animals, and systemic support helped keep me alive. I recently created a fundraiser to help cover professional editing, publishing costs, and continued rescue advocacy efforts while I work toward independently publishing the memoir. Thank you to everyone who has supported us, encouraged us, and stayed beside us through the difficult parts of this journey. For most of my life, survival was something I did quietly. What began as fragmented writing during periods of trauma, addiction, instability, and recovery has slowly evolved into a memoir about survival, mental health, domestic violence, healing, and the unexpected role rescued animals played in keeping me alive. I am currently working toward independently publishing The Anarchy of My Memories in a way that is emotionally responsible, legally safe, and accessible to others who may feel unseen inside their own struggles. This fundraiser will help cover: • professional editing and formatting • publishing expenses • legal and sensitivity review • and ongoing stability for myself and the animals who became part of this journey More than anything, I hope this project becomes something useful — not only for me, but for others navigating trauma, recovery, grief, survival, and healing. Sometimes healing arrives in unexpected forms. For me, it arrived on four legs.

Memoir Fundraiser — The Anarchy of My Memories For most of my life, survival was something I did quietly. What began as fragmented writing during periods of trauma, addiction, instability, and recovery has slowly evolved into a memoir about survival, mental health, domestic violence, healing, and the unexpected role rescued animals played in keeping me alive. I am currently working toward independently publishing The Anarchy of My Memories in a way that is emotionally responsible, legally safe, and accessible to others who may feel unseen inside their own struggles. This fundraiser will help cover: • professional editing and formatting • publishing expenses • legal and sensitivity review • and ongoing stability for myself and the animals who became part of this journey More than anything, I hope this project becomes something useful — not only for me, but for others navigating trauma, recovery, grief, survival, and healing. Sometimes healing arrives in unexpected forms. For me, it arrived on four legs.

In Honor of Compassion, Community, and Second Chances Every day, animals suffer quietly because veterinary care remains financially out of reach for the people trying desperately to help them. Some are beloved family pets. Some are rescue cases. Some are survivors of neglect, displacement, disaster, or medical crisis. Too often, lifesaving treatment is delayed — or never happens at all — simply because families and rescuers lack the financial resources to access care in time. This fundraiser is dedicated to supporting the extraordinary work of the Wanuza Pinheiro Cruz Animal Medical Care Foundation, a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Dr. Rita Rivero in honor of her late mother, Wanuza Pinheiro Cruz. Based in New Jersey, the foundation was created to provide low-cost and pro bono veterinary care to underserved communities, rescue animals, and families facing financial hardship. At a time when both animals and caretakers are struggling more than ever, this foundation continues to offer something increasingly rare: compassion without judgment. About Dr. Rita Rivero Dr. Rita Rivero is a veterinarian, advocate, educator, and lifelong supporter of animal welfare. As founder of both Demarest Veterinarian and Mahwah Veterinarian Groom & Board, she has spent years providing ethical, mindful, and accessible veterinary care rooted in empathy, prevention, and education. Dr. Rivero treats her patients with the same compassion and commitment she would offer her own pets. She believes veterinary medicine begins not only in the exam room, but through communication, trust, and empowering people with knowledge. In 2016, she founded the Wanuza Pinheiro Cruz Animal Medical Care Foundation in memory of her mother and in honor of her Brazilian family, friends, supporters, and community whose compassion helped inspire this mission. The Mission The Wanuza Pinheiro Cruz Animal Medical Care Foundation exists to ensure animals are not denied care simply because their owners or rescuers are struggling financially. Their mission includes: * Providing free and low-cost veterinary care * Supporting rescue organizations and emergency rescue efforts * Assisting underserved pet owners * Preventing unnecessary suffering and euthanasia * Offering treatment beyond routine medical care * Promoting humane education and community outreach * Expanding access to compassionate veterinary services Their long-term vision includes: * Free mobile veterinary popup clinics * Community outreach programs * A state-of-the-art medical facility in New Jersey * Expanded advocacy for animal welfare * Internship opportunities for future veterinarians Why This Work Matters Animal rescue is often emotional, exhausting, and deeply misunderstood. Behind every rescued animal is usually a network of ordinary people doing extraordinary things quietly: transporting animals late at night, fundraising for emergency surgeries, comforting grieving families, providing foster care, coordinating medical treatment, or simply refusing to abandon animals in crisis. Many rescuers and pet owners are navigating hardships of their own — including disability, trauma, illness, financial instability, housing insecurity, and burnout. Yet they continue showing up because compassion compels them to. Foundations like this provide something critically important: support without shame. Community Education Matters Compassionate rescue work also depends on education, outreach, and community support. For those interested in learning more about humane rescue practices, fostering, colony care, advocacy, and animal welfare education, we encourage exploring the workshops and resources offered by: Neighborhood Cats https://www.neighborhoodcats.org ?) Stronger education creates stronger, safer, and more compassionate communities for both animals and people. How Donations Help Your support helps provide: Veterinary Care * Wellness exams * Emergency treatment * Diagnostic testing * Vaccinations * Parasite treatment * Dermatology care * Dental procedures * Geriatric care * Nutrition consultations * Humane end-of-life care when necessary Rescue & Emergency Support * Medical stabilization for rescued animals * Support for displaced pets * Follow-up treatment * Rehabilitation assistance * Transportation coordination * Crisis intervention support Essential Supplies * Food * Medical supplies * Recovery materials * Cleaning supplies * Bedding and comfort items * Foster care support resources A Personal Reflection In moments of crisis, we often remember the people who chose compassion when it would have been easier to look away. The Wanuza Pinheiro Cruz Animal Medical Care Foundation represents that kind of compassion. Not performative. Not political. Not transactional. Simply human. A belief that animals deserve dignity, medical care, comfort, and advocacy regardless of circumstance. And a belief that struggling families and rescuers deserve support too. How You Can Help * Donate if you are financially able * Share this fundraiser * Support accessible veterinary care * Volunteer when possible * Advocate for humane treatment and community outreach * Help create a culture rooted in compassion instead of indifference Contact & Foundation Information Wanuza Pinheiro Cruz Animal Medical Care Foundation Demarest, New Jersey Phone: (551) [phone redacted] Affiliated with: Demarest Veterinarian Mahwah Veterinarian Groom & Board Learn more about Dr. Rita Rivero and the foundation: Mahwah Veterinarian https://mahwahvet.com Thank you for believing in compassion, accessible care, and second chances — for both animals and the people trying to help them. Together, we can make sure fewer lives are left behind.

Support Needed for Sako and Lucky I am asking for help for two animals who urgently need care. Sako is an injured cat with a severe neck wound, possibly from a dog attack or a ruptured abscess. Thanks to a TNR specialist willing to assist, Sako has an appointment this Monday. Lucky is a puppy in dire need of urgent medical care and grooming. With help from others, Lucky is scheduled for vaccines, grooming, and blood work this Tuesday. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has stepped up without expecting anything in return. I do not take that lightly. If possible, I will do my best to repay support so it can continue helping the next animal in need. The TNR-related services are more manageable at around $45 for flea treatment, microchip, and SNAP testing for friendly cats, and $20 for flea and Microchip only for ferals like Sako. The cost of medical grooming, vaccines, blood work, and veterinary care is much higher and has not yet been fully disclosed. I am sharing this with honesty and urgency. I do not have time to prove I am worthy of help, or that these animals are worthy of our support. I am already doing the work to secure care, and I am asking for support so these animals can get the treatment they need. All updates will be shared accordingly, and anyone who is comfortable being acknowledged publicly will be credited. Please help me help Sako and Lucky, and help keep this support moving for the animals who still need care after them.

In 3 days, on April 4th, I will be turning 36. There was a time in my life when I never imagined I would make it to 21. But I’m still here—and while I continue to navigate my own healing, I remain deeply committed to helping the animals who depend on us. Right now, I’m asking my community—neighbors, friends, and anyone who believes in compassion—to consider supporting my rescue efforts. Every contribution goes directly toward: • Spay & neuter (TNR) services • Emergency and routine medical care • Transportation to clinics • Food, litter, and essential supplies I aim to provide affordable TNR services at just $45 per cat, which includes spay/neuter surgery, SNAP testing, microchipping, flea treatment, and additional care when needed. This cost is through TNR services provided by those able to secure appointments. The cost is slightly higher when using other resources. It may not sound like much, but it adds up quickly—especially while living on disability income. This work is personal. I am a survivor of domestic violence, and caring for animals became a part of how I rebuilt my life. Rescue gave me purpose when everything else felt uncertain. Every life I’ve helped save—and even those I’ve lost—has shaped that purpose. This past year has not been easy. My housing, my safety, and my ability to continue this work have all been challenged, and antagonized. But I’m still here, starting again, and still fighting—for them and for myself. Your support helps create: • Second chances for animals in need • Trauma-informed, compassionate care • A growing foundation for a true sanctuary If you’re able to help, here are a few ways: • Donate—every dollar truly matters • Share this post to reach someone who can help • Send supplies through my Amazon Wish List • Volunteer (transport, fostering, rescue support) Amazon Wish List: [https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/dl/invite/3SUBNmljnk9ThTxJS_IZLm5i8-aB2PnSLHgk5MfpyWlgnrjkIiGfm6l_88UR6Swp_5UbdVJEyTViBooT-nQ0CEDhedBpEBYO6jBEucM?ref_=wl_share](https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/dl/invite/3SUBNmljnk9ThTxJS_IZLm5i8-aB2PnSLHgk5MfpyWlgnrjkIiGfm6l_88UR6Swp_5UbdVJEyTViBooT-nQ0CEDhedBpEBYO6jBEucM?ref_=wl_share) Thank you for believing in second chances—for both people and animals. I’m still building, still healing, and still showing up. One life at a time.

Help Hudson Find Safety and a Forever Home Hudson is a sweet, affectionate stray cat whose life is hanging in the balance. He recently lost his brother to a tragic accident in a high-traffic area — and without intervention, Hudson faces the same fate. Although he has been fully processed through TNR (trap-neuter-return), it quickly became clear that Hudson is not a feral cat. He is incredibly friendly, loving, and actively seeks out human connection. For the past three nights, I have slept on the bathroom floor with him so he wouldn’t feel alone. He curls into blankets, leans into affection, and trusts completely. This is not a cat meant to survive on the streets — this is a cat who deserves a safe, loving home. We are currently working to secure a foster placement for Hudson. While we may have a lead thanks to a fellow rescuer, nothing is guaranteed yet — and time is critical. **How your support will help Hudson:** • $45 still owed for neuter, microchip, and snap test • Food, litter, and basic care while in temporary housing • Support for his foster placement • Future veterinary care and supplies Every dollar will go directly toward Hudson’s care and ensuring he does not have to return to a dangerous outdoor environment. If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser is just as meaningful and appreciated. Hudson has shown nothing but love and trust — now he needs us to show up for him. Thank you for helping give Hudson the chance at the life he deserves. ❤️

To whom it may concern, I dropped off this community cat's remains to aspca who will investigate. Affectionately known as Fluffy, she is only one of many of our commjnity cats deliberately harmed. No further accusations will be made until ASPCA has investigated. For anyone who contributed to our efforts to fund a necropsy on our own please feel free to reach out to me directly. It will remain open for now as a donation towards any rescue actually willing to help us with the others . Please reach out of you would prefer a refund We are raising at least $1000 for clarity and protection for community cats. Help Us Fund a Necropsy & Toxicology for Fluffy Seeking Answers. Seeking Accountability. Seeking Safety Fluffy was a beloved, cared-for community cat in the Bronx (10458). He was found suddenly deceased with blood coming from his mouth and no visible external injuries. Earlier that evening, he had been seen eating normally alongside his companions. There were: • No visible lacerations • No signs of blunt-force trauma • No external injuries to explain the bleeding The sudden onset raises serious concern that a toxic substance may have been ingested. We are not making accusations. We are seeking answers. The only way to determine cause of death is through a professional veterinary necropsy (animal autopsy) with toxicology testing. Why We Are Raising Funds Veterinary diagnostic labs estimate: • Basic necropsy: $125–$250 • Full diagnostic necropsy: $325–$850+ • Forensic/legal case review: $800–$1,250+ • Toxicology tests: $45–$60 per test • Additional fees may include histopathology, documentation, and disposal Costs vary depending on the scope required and whether it becomes a forensic case. Because this may involve suspected poisoning, comprehensive toxicology may be necessary to establish facts. Our Goal We are raising $1,200 to cover: ✔ Comprehensive necropsy ✔ Toxicology screening ✔ Forensic documentation (if applicable) ✔ Associated lab and handling fees If the total cost is less than expected, remaining funds will be: • Donated to a reputable rescue willing to assist OR • Paid directly to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory or veterinarian performing the services Funds will *v*not** be used for personal expenses. We are committed to transparency and will provide updates and receipts. Why This Matters If a toxic substance was intentionally placed in a residential area, this poses a risk not only to animals, but to children and residents. Fluffy mattered. Community cats matter. Public safety matters. Without diagnostic confirmation, there can be no clarity. How You Can Help • Donate toward diagnostic testing • Share this fundraiser • Connect us with veterinary diagnostic labs • Offer guidance if you have experience with forensic cases Every contribution brings us closer to answers. Thank you for standing with our community and for honoring Fluffy’s life.