Pup Defiant

Pack, Family, and Community, This… is going to be a lot to unpack. I’ve always said that living openly means living truthfully — so here it is: my health journey has entered a serious new stage, and I’ve reached the point where I can’t fight this one out alone. Right now, my care team is working through a web of overlapping autoimmune conditions that are hitting my body hard. We’ve confirmed an autoimmune overlap syndrome, ongoing immune irregularities, and now pernicious — an autoimmune condition that blocks my body from absorbing vitamin B12. What does that mean in real terms? My red blood cells don’t form correctly, leaving me at constant risk for anemia, nerve damage, cognitive issues, and even digestive system cancers without targeted treatment. It can also “flip a switch” on me — one moment leaving me with burning pain, another with exhaustion, confusion, or breathlessness. I don’t plan on letting it get that far. That’s not how DEFIANT goes down. Still, the reality is heavy: recent imaging shows multiple pulmonary nodules that point toward malignancy, requiring ongoing monitoring and possible future intervention. My bloodwork is raising concerns about clonal cells, which means more testing to rule out leukemia and related risks. Add to that coronary artery calcification, advanced for my age, and it’s clear: this is a multi-front battle. The bottom line is: we don’t yet have all the answers, but the road ahead is long, urgent, and costly. ⸻ Why I Need Backup In full transparency: since returning to Chicago, I’ve been living with my Sponsor while working toward a return to full-time employment. I know it may seem like I’ve been asking for a lot lately, but this isn’t about comfort — it’s about survival and stability. I’m doing everything I can to lock down my health, housing, and career quickly and efficiently — without being a burden. That’s why I’m asking for backup. Donations will go directly toward: • Medical costs and ongoing testing as my care team works toward answers and treatment • Housing stability during this time of transition • Monthly CTA transit passes so I can reliably get to and from my providers • Day-to-day essentials that keep me steady enough to fight ⸻ Auxiliary Shields Up It feels like all hell is breaking loose, but I promise you this — auxiliary shields are up. I’m not giving in. My doctors and I are pressing forward, one test, one infusion, one fight at a time. I’m already undergoing weekly infusion therapy — each round a cycle of anxiety, relief, and resolve — and I will keep showing up. If you can back me — financially, emotionally, or by sharing this campaign — it makes all the difference. Every bit of support strengthens the shield wall around me and proves again what community can do when it shows up. Thank you for standing with me in this storm. With grit, gratitude, and DEFIANCE, PUP✶DEFIANT

While *squeak* is always about connection and joy, today it carries a special weight. This installment is a fundraiser in tribute to Rubber Pup Zeke — Christopher Edwards, as many may also know them by — was so much more than a community member. He was a creative soul, a designer, a leader, and above all, a kind and passionate pup. He lived with Neurofibromatosis Type 2 his entire life, but that never stopped him from showing up fully, with compassion and generosity. Zeke served on the leadership committee of the Chicago Rubber Club. Many of you will remember his run at the inaugural Midwest Rubber contest at Chicago Fetish Weekend in 2023, where he proudly placed 3rd. Beyond titles and contests, Zeke gave so much to improving accessibility in our community spaces and events. We are raising funds for the Children's Tumor Foundation, an organization dedicated to ending neurofibromatosis (NF). This cause was close to their heart, and we believe supporting this NPO is a meaningful way to honor their memory. Your generous donations will help drive vital research and expand knowledge about NF, ensuring that more families receive the care they need. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this condition. Funding innovative research projects aimed at finding effective treatments for NF. Providing resources and support to families navigating the challenges of NF. Please consider contributing to this important mission. Every dollar brings us one step closer to a world free from NF, and your support in memory of our friend means everything. Let’s make this event not just a social, but a celebration of life, resilience, and love. Thank you all for being here, and let’s keep *squeak* going strong for Zeke.