The full story

Chino is only five years old, but he has been battling intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) since he was two. This week alone, we’ve made three difficult trips to the hospital—two hours away—and we’re now facing the possibility of spinal surgery to relieve his pain and give him the best chance of getting back to being himself.

If you know Chino, you know what a special little boy he is. He is sweet, silly, affectionate, and happiest when he’s with his people. He loves to run, swim, play, give kisses, and curl up for cuddles.

Even when his pain becomes so severe that he cries out, all he wants is to be held and loved. Watching him suffer—knowing he doesn’t understand why he can’t run and play—has broken my heart.

The cost of spinal surgery and his ongoing emergency care is more than I can manage alone. Asking for help isn’t easy, but I need support to give Chino the chance he deserves: a chance to live without pain and return to the joyful, playful life he loves.

I just want my happy little Chino back. I want to see him run, swim, and play again—and I’m going to do everything I can to make that possible.

If you’re able to help, whether by donating or sharing Chino’s story, it would mean more to us than words can express. Every act of kindness brings us one step closer to giving our sweet boy his best chance at recovery.

Thank you for caring about Chino and for standing beside us during this incredibly difficult time.