Help get DJ back in action!

Hey folks! This is a fundraiser for my dog and probably your best friend, DJ. This big lug seriously injured one of his legs, and needs surgery to get it repaired. While this is not lifesaving surgery, it's essential to DJ's quality of life. He loves hiking, swimming, running around with other dogs, and doing this wacky little bunny hop whenever he's excited to see someone. He's got about another ten years to run, play, love, and explore, and he needs this procedure to live his life to its fullest potential. The estimate for his surgery alone is between $3700-$4400, which doesn't include the ~$600 I've already shelled out, and his aftercare costs. I'm really not the type to ask for help (ever-- working on that), but this is an unexpected amount of cash and debt I just can't handle on my own right now. Full transparency: I used CareCredit to cover the cost of his surgery, but in order to avoid racking up ~$1,000 in back interest, I need to pay it off as soon as possible. I'm beyond grateful to everyone who's offered us support, in so many different forms. Please share if you're unable to contribute right now-- lord knows all our pockets are a little emptier than we'd like these days.

About me: I'm a Black, queer, non-binary trans educator and youth development worker in Richmond, VA. I've been a teacher for the past five years in Title 1 urban public middle and high schools, and I've dedicated my life's work to fighting for vulnerable kids' right to a quality, inquiry-driven education that supports them in developing the tools and skills to self-actualize. I play music, make bad art, love my friends, organize when I can, and give of myself to others as much as possible. I'm a firm believer that we're all in this hellscape together.

About DJ: Hilarious, cuddly, endlessly affectionate little ball of energy. Snores loudly. Steals oranges. Loves unconditionally. This little guy has been an immeasurably important source of emotional support and stability for me through some real trauma and upheaval over the last four years, and I couldn't imagine doing this thing without him.

Thank you for reading this far-- and for helping my fuzzball get back to doing all the things he loves. We couldn't do it without you!