If you've ever loved a pet, you know they're more than just an animal—they're family. Our sweet cat, Prince Cheese, gave us quite a scare when he suddenly stopped using one of his back legs. At first, we thought he had simply injured it, but within a very short time, things became much worse. Soon he couldn't use any of his legs, and we feared we might lose him.

We desperately searched for answers, taking him to four different veterinary clinics, including a NCSU emergency veterinary hospital. After several examinations, tests, and three days in the hospital, the specialists were finally able to diagnose the problem: a serious bacterial infection in his ankle that had spread enough to leave him unable to walk.

Thankfully, Cheese is now back home with us and is finally on the road to recovery. He has started improving, but he still has a long way to go. Over the next four weeks, he'll need antibiotics, pain medication, follow-up care, and lots of rest while he heals.

Those three days without him were incredibly difficult. Our home just didn't feel the same, Stella and I were heartbroken and worried every day until he came home. Seeing the smile on Stella's face when she finally got to hold him again reminded us just how much he means to our family.

The emergency visits, specialist care, hospitalization, diagnostic testing, and medications have created unexpected veterinary bills that are difficult for us to manage on our own.

We are turning to our community to ask for a helping hand. Every single dollar raised will go directly to covering Prince Cheese's outstanding medical bills and his continued care.

​If you can donate: No amount is too small. A contribution of $5 or $10 helps us cover his next dose of medication.
​If you cannot donate right now: Please consider hitting the "Share" button. Sharing his story with your friends, family, and fellow animal lovers helps more than you know.

​Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for reading, for your kindness, and for helping Prince Cheese get back on his feet.

​With love and gratitude,
Valerie, Stella, Princess Mackenzie and Prince Cheese 🐾