Emergency grant from RedRover and donations from around the country help pay for lifesaving surgery
RedRover, a national animal protection nonprofit based in Sacramento, California, has awarded an emergency grant to pay for veterinary care for a therapy cat named Tobi who provides emotional support and companionship to his caregiver who has a chronic medical condition.
A RedRover Relief Grant made the difference between life and death for Tobi. Sarah Fairely, a single mom of three, was financially stressed beyond her means after paying hundreds of dollars in diagnostic work, including multiple x-rays and an ultrasound. Tobi was diagnosed with a bowel obstruction caused by a tumor and his only chance for survival was immediate surgery with a $1,200 price tag. Without treatment, it would have only been a matter of time before Tobi would succumb to septic shock, because of the high levels of toxins in his body.
Sarah’s mother had recently been diagnosed with cancer, and then Tobi became ill. “It all happened at once.” Sarah told RedRover’s case manager. “I can’t bear the thought of losing Tobi, but I’ve exhausted all of my options, and have nowhere else to turn” said Fairley.
“RedRover’s grants are intended to bring animals from crisis to care by helping pet owners meet the cost of lifesaving vet care,” said RedRover President and CEO Nicole Forsyth. “We at RedRover appreciate the bond that people develop with their pets and work toward strengthening and preserving that bond. Tobi plays a critical role in his family and we were moved by Sarah’s commitment to him.”
After an extended stay at the clinic, Tobi is on the mend and expected to go home this weekend. “He is the most amazing cat and has always cared for me and my daughters in our times of need,” said Fairley. We are so excited to be able to bring Tobi home. Thank you so much for saving Tobi’s life. We could not have done this without you!”
To learn more about RedRover or see a comprehensive list of financial resources for pet owners, visit www.redrover.org/relief.
In 2010, RedRover awarded more than $73,000 in grants to help 500 animals receive lifesaving veterinary care. Applications for RedRover Relief have doubled in the last four years. The economic downturn has greatly increased demand for the grants, which are funded solely by private donations. RedRover hopes to double the budget for this program by 2015.
Donations to the RedRover Relief program can be made on online at www.redrover.org. RedRover is a nonprofit charitable organization founded in 1987.
MEDIA CONTACT: Nicole Forsyth, office (916) 429-2457 ext 304
RedRover, formerly known as United Animal Nations, was founded in 1987. We work to strengthen the bond between people and animals with a commitment to help, shelter and connect suffering animals with people who care. Learn more at www.redrover.org.
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