Saturday, April 3, 2010

Dear Friends,

My beloved furbaby, Gigi, is facing a frightening illness and needs your prayers and support.

She turned 7 years old on April 2nd and is the most playful, adorable, snuggly kitty I've had in years.  She is a wonderful friend and constant companion. 

Last week, her vet found enlarged lymph nodes on both sides of her throat.  They grew to the size of marbles in less than 2 days.  All indications point to lymphoma, a treatable but potentially deadly cancer.  Since it is early in the diagnosis, surgery and chemotherapy will give her a chance at several more years of high quality life.  But I need help to pay for her treatment.

She has an appointment scheduled with a local vet oncologist this coming Monday, April 5th.  Please check back here for updates.

There is currently a fund-raising campaign for Gigi being run by the wonderful people at the non-profit group of Diabetic Cats In Need (DCIN).  They are a 501(c)3 organization.  If you'd like to make a 100% tax deductible contribution to help Gigi, you may do so through the DCIN organization.  Please click HERE to access their website for donation instructions.  All donations go directly to Gigi's account at the California Veterinary Specialties hospital where Gigi will be treated.

Thanks to all of you who have helped Gigi and me through prayers, emotional and financial support. 

With warmest regards and best wishes,

Lynn and Gigi

Friday, April 16, 2010

Gigi's diagnosis of lymphoma was confirmed on April 6th.  The oncologist found a mass in her abdomen, in addition to the swollen lymph nodes in her throat.  Because the cancer is so treatable and she is in perfect health otherwise, I opted to have them proceed with chemotherapy.  The protocol is 27 weeks long, and costs around $5,300.00.  I desperately need help to raise the funds to pay for her treatment each week.

She started chemotherapy on April 7th.  The vets at Angel Care Cancer Center are hopeful that Gigi will attain complete remission due to her young age and exceptionally good health in all other aspects.

She's sitting here next to me and she looks great!  When she went in for her second round of chemo this past Wednesday, the vet found no signs of the abdominal mass or swollen lymph nodes.  She's responding incredibly fast to the treatment. 

Last weekend, I spent 3 days selling my inventory of beads and was able to raise enough money to pay for her chemo treatment this week and next.  But in order to continue her treatment, I need to continue to raise around $300 each week.  Some weeks are more expensive then others, due to the different medicines that are used each treatment.  The treatment this week was over $500.

If you are able to help, even $5 would be so greatly appreciated.  You may contact the cancer center or donate through the DCIN charity to make donations on Gigi's behalf.

Thank you so much for following her progress. 

May 7th, 2010

Gigi is in her 5th week of chemotherapy and is doing well.  She has slowed down a little, but is still the loveable, sweet girl she's always been. 

This Mother's Day weekend, we will have a booth at the Bernardo Winery Arts and Craft Fair.  I will have all my latest jewelry creations on sale.  Proceeds will go to help continue Gigi's chemotherapy.  It's a beautiful location, with great food and wine, along with many talented artisans.

We hope to see there!

Gigi's Photo Album