“The Reason I’ve Kept Going” – Chester’s Happy Tail
October 9th, 2024
By Savannah Verdon, Development Manager
Every once in a while, a RedRover Relief Urgent Care grant applicant writes their own Happy Tail by describing in great detail and with undeniable love the crisis they and their pet face. When Daniel needed help for his handsome cat Chester, his words painted a picture of two best friends who could get through anything – as long as they had each other.
“Chester is my everything. I’ve never spent more than one night away from him in his whole life. He’s the reason I’ve kept going when I didn’t think anything was worth it. Chester has seen me through my ups and downs. He’s moved across the country with me and we’ve celebrated three birthdays together. He never forgets to remind me when it’s time for dinner and he calls to the birds from the windows. I don’t know, I just can’t imagine going through life without him.”
So what happened that Daniel would even have to imagine going through life without Chester?
“My three-year-and-ten-month-old orange baby has been diagnosed with Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease. The emergency veterinarian was able to relieve his condition temporarily when he first blocked, treating him for a UTI and the blockage before sending us home with medicine. Unfortunately, his distressing symptoms returned three weeks later. I rushed him to urgent care.
“Again he was given medication and released, but Chester’s condition deteriorated rapidly the next day and put him in excruciating pain. With a heavy heart, we returned to the emergency room where a catheter was inserted to alleviate his suffering. After several hours, we were referred to another clinic where Chester could undergo a Perineal Urethrostomy (PU) surgery, as advised by the veterinarian. This procedure is vital for reducing the likelihood of blockages, and alleviating his suffering. Without this surgery, Chester’s quality of life will continue to deteriorate, and his health will remain in jeopardy. He also needs a cystotomy procedure to clear the stones in his bladder and provide comprehensive treatment for his condition. He’s now on a medicated diet, but the risk of future blockages looms large and the veterinarian emphasized that Chester’s body cannot endure another episode.”
Blockages are common in male cats, but their common occurrence doesn’t mean treatment is simple, or affordable.
“The combined cost of these life-saving surgeries is in the thousands. While the new clinic has generously offered compassion care to cover half of the expenses, my half is still hundreds of dollars. I’ve recently started a new job and my financial situation is strained. I find myself, and Chester, in a position of great distress. My rent is already overdue because of the earlier vet visits, and I am exploring every avenue to ensure Chester receives the care he urgently needs. I’ve initiated a fundraising campaign and I am also prepared to sell personal belongings to cover the costs.
“I humbly reach out to you, hoping for any assistance you might be able to provide. Your support would mean the world to me and would go directly towards securing Chester’s medical treatment. Thank you sincerely for considering my request during this challenging time. Your kindness and compassion would make an immeasurable difference in Chester’s life and mine.”
Fortunately, our On-Call Angels make that immeasurable difference for families like Daniel and Chester when they need kindness and compassion the most. With an Urgent Care grant and generous contributions from friends and family, Daniel could afford Chester’s full treatment, ensuring his sweet boy the best chance possible at a healthier future.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your generous assistance in supporting his veterinary care. I’m thrilled to share that Chester was released from the hospital and it wouldn’t have been possible without your help. Your contribution played a crucial role in ensuring that Chester received the care he needed, and I cannot thank you enough for your kindness and generosity.
“Since returning home, Chester has been healing beautifully, despite some minor bumps in the road. His first follow-up appointment is scheduled for this weekend, where we’ll get a clearer picture of his progress. Despite his dislike for the cone (he definitely hates it), Chester is so happy to be back home, surrounded by familiar comforts.
“Your support has made a significant difference in Chester’s recovery journey, and I’m deeply grateful for your kindness and generosity during this challenging time. Your willingness to help has touched my heart, and I’m incredibly thankful for your partnership in Chester’s journey to health and happiness.
“Chester means the world to me, and your generosity gives me hope for his brighter, healthier future.”
Those words are for you, an important member of our compassionate community. Thank you for giving families hope and protecting the pets who are their world, their everything.
