Fundraising for Vet Support New Zealand, in memory of Conan

In August of this year, the light of my life Conan fell ill with T-cell rich B-cell lymphoma, a rare form of cancer. I did everything possible to save him, but sadly his cancer was too aggressive, and he passed away on September 23rd due to complications from recurring pleural effusion.

The vets, nurses and staff at Vetlife St Kilda, Vetlife Mornington, Vetlife Murray’s (Dunedin) and VSA Christchurch showed both Conan and myself compassion, care and diligence like none other, and I will forever feel indebted to them despite the heartbreaking outcome. I feel the veterinary profession sadly doesn’t receive the support and praise it is due, burnout and abuse are common, and tragically, suicide rates are several times higher than in the general population. In Conan’s memory, I am raising funds for Vet Support New Zealand, who provide mental health support, counselling and mentoring for veterinary professionals.

More information about this campaign and Conan's story can be found in my Instagram page linked below.