As some of you know, my sweet boy Bear was diagnosed with an aggressive, inoperable tumor this month. I have to say, it took us by surprise given that we were in the midst of dealing with other medical issues. I had hoped to be able to manage his condition for another several months, but this diagnosis forced a hard change of plans.

Bear and his sister Artemis are the first pets I ever adopted on my own. They showed me so much unconditional love when I was living on my own in Tucson. They endured an exhausting three-day road trip back to Spokane with in the summer of 2018, and have stuck by me through three more moves, one ex, multiple short-term jobs, and the huge decision of returning to higher education this past summer. I was heartbroken to hear that Bear would be leaving us on such short notice.

We were able to provide pain management to give him a happy last week full of wet food, snuggles, and trips outside. We chose the option of at-home euthanasia and he passed peacefully in my arms on Friday, 4/12/24. I can't say how grateful I am to have been able to give him comfort in those final days and moments.

Although we were able to find the money to give him those last days of peace, the costs of exams and testing, pain management, and euthanasia services are a lot to manage given our current financial state. Any help, big or small, makes a world of difference to us as I juggle these unexpected costs with student aid and a part-time job.

Thank you so much for your support. Even just taking the time to read this shows you care.