06/21/2022
Dear, friends, clients, colleagues and supporters near and far,
My name is Mikka Jacino also known as Mikka Gia, I am a business owner, barber and photographer as well as a proud dog mom to the handsome Mister Luigi here in Toronto. As some of you may know Luigi is my French bulldog. He has been an important part of my life, work, art, and home. If you have ever been by the loft, I am confident he's greeted you with a snort, sniff and tilted head expression. He isn't just my pet but my son and has shown me what unconditional love looks like. Luigi's general personality is energetic, curious and spunky but in early May I began to notice a subtle shift in his behavior. Sometimes lethargic, slow in his walks and a persistent throat clearing and breathing issues. Frenchie’s can be prone to throat and breathing problems, but it was enough of a concern for me to take him to the Veterinary Emergency Clinic on May 17th here in Toronto. The clinic ran a robust series of tests including a CT scan of his cranium and throat. On May 19th, the clinic called me with the results and expert findings.
In his right ear they detected a buildup of "luminal fluid and attenuating material". If left untreated it will worsen and cause Luigi further discomfort and pain and affect his sense of equilibrium and hearing. Surgery is an option, however treatment of antibiotics for a few months could resolve the issue. The veterinarian was more concerned by the CT scan having detected a 1.9(L) x 2.1(W) x 1.8(H) cm "well defined, mildly lobular, soft tissue" tumour which is partially attached to the Carotid Artery, pressing into his throat near his left Larynx causing the recent throat aggravation and persistent breathing struggles.
Any pet owner knows the dread when you hear your beloved family member is struggling with an illness. Luckily, as the veterinarian explains, the tumour has been caught in time and although could be cancerous, it has not spread any further into his body. She was quite confident that surgery to remove the tumour will result in Luigi’s full recovery. And with antibiotic treatments his ear will improve as well. So, there is good hope for his life expectancy.
As a result, I am launching the Luigi Surgery GoFundMe to help raise the financial funds to pay for the surgery, medications, and treatment for his ears. There are three ways you can help:
1. You can purchase a limited-edition The Groomed Society's scented candle on www.thegroomedsociety.com or inhouse. These candles are handmade and poured by me and are all natural, organic, and local. You can also purchase a TGS Society t-shirt, which has Luigi’s face on the back. 100% of the proceeds raised from purchasing this merchandise will go directly to Luigi's surgery and ear treatment.
2. GoFundMe where you can make direct donations in any amount to further provide help and assistance to pay for his surgery. Asking for help during these times is tough, I am a proud dog mom, but any help will be appreciated.
https://www.gofundme.com/luigi-surgery
3. Please share this post and link wherever you can or as much as you feel comfortable.
Some might say Luigi is a senior and has had a great life. But our pets don't come with an expiration date based on age and any pet parent knows you can and will do anything within your power to give them the best and longest life possible. Luigi and I are grateful to your support and time.
Love
Mikka Jacino.
