Help Cruz Get the Care She Needs

Last night, my 4-year-old dog, Cruz, had a severe seizure for the first time, and I have never seen so much fear in her eyes. Seeing her like that was terrifying, and I’m doing everything I can to ensure she gets the care she needs. Unfortunately, I’m in a position I never imagined—unable to afford her diagnostics or medical treatment due to an incredibly challenging few months.

Since September 2024, I’ve faced one health crisis after another. I had abdominal surgery in September, emergency surgery in October, and was hospitalized with sepsis in November, spending a week in the hospital to recover, quite literally fighting for my life. Just two weeks after that, I underwent another surgery to rebreak all of my fingers and knuckles and release a tendon due to complications from an earlier injury.

These health setbacks have kept me out of work since early December. I’ve already missed significant time at work due to hospitalizations starting in September, and my current recovery has left me with a 10-pound lifting restriction. My job will not let me work until I can lift 20-25 pounds, so I won’t be able to return until at least February.

My parents have been helping me cover my basic bills, but their resources are stretched thin. I’ve always been a responsible pet owner and someone who works hard, but these last five months have been unimaginably difficult. Cruz is my world, and it breaks my heart that I can’t give her the care she needs right now.

I know this isn’t the biggest tragedy out there, but if you’re able to donate—no matter how small—or share this campaign, I would be so grateful. Truly, anything helps. Thank you for taking the time to read our story and for considering supporting us during this difficult time.

❤️ With gratitude, Melanie Harris