If you've ever loved a pet, then you understand they're family.

My family is an 8-year-old black cat named Ebony. We've been together for six wonderful years, and she has been my constant companion through every challenge life has thrown my way. She has the silkiest black coat, loves salmon and chicken (especially together), spends her days sunbathing and chasing laser pointers, and faithfully "protects" me while I'm in the shower or even using the bathroom.

Today, I'm asking for help because the home Ebony and I share is no longer safe. When I adopted Ebony when she was two she already had to navigate medical issues from her time as a stray and my hope is not to add to that trauma. 

Since February, I've been dealing with a leak that originated in my bathroom and spread into my kitchen ceiling. What started as a repair issue has turned into a much larger crisis. After working with two separate contractors—one highly recommended and another provided through my home warranty service—I was left in a worse position than where I started.

For more than a month, I've been using a bucket in my kitchen to catch leaking water. Recently, I received confirmation that black mold has developed. The flooring has become warped and softened, and the situation continues to worsen.

This isn't just a property problem. It's a health problem.

Black mold can be harmful to both people and pets, and Ebony already has a pre-existing asthma condition. Every day that passes, I worry about the impact this environment could have on her breathing and overall health.

I never imagined I would be in a position where I would have to consider selling my condo because I can't afford the repairs needed to make it safe again. Yet that is the reality I am facing. As the two community emergency repair programs have denied me unfortunately, due to location and my repairs necessary not qualifying as an emergency under their standards. 

Additionally, I am currently pursuing legal action against the contractors responsible for this situation through small claims court. My first court date is scheduled for July 7, but there is no guarantee that the defendant will show, or that I will recover the money needed to address these urgent issues, nor any certainty about how long that process will take.

Like many people, I've also been navigating disability, periods of unemployment, and ongoing health challenges. Asking for help is difficult for me. I know many people are facing their own struggles right now. But isolation and silence won't solve this problem, and I know I'm not meant to carry it alone.

Your support will help:

• Remove and remediate the black mold
• Repair the damaged flooring, walls, and affected areas of my home
• Create a healthy and safe living environment again
• Cover legal expenses related to pursuing accountability from the contractors
• Pay for Ebony's veterinary examination and treatment
• Refill and maintain Ebony's asthma medication

Whether you're able to donate, share this fundraiser, or simply send words of encouragement, every act of support means more than I can express.

Thank you for helping me protect our home, our health, and most importantly, Ebony.

With gratitude,
Q and Ebony 🖤