Darwin is a 6-year-old Domestic Shorthair cat in Portageville, MO, who needs $2,000 for oncology treatment and surgery.

Darwin and I met almost 7 years ago when I fostered him and his litter mates. The group was abandoned at the local humane society in Auburn Alabama. I took the trio in (Darwin, Donnie, and Nigel) and immediately fell in love with Darwin. I named them after the Wild Thornberries characters, but him especially after my favorite scientist, Charles Darwin. He was the runt of the group... if you can believe it by looking at him now. The foster experience was AMAZING. My dog, Carlos, assumed the role as papa of the group. They would snuggle him and lay with him in bed. I was thrilled with the connection I saw. Before I knew it, my time was up with the foster kittens. I returned them to the shelter and inquired about adopting Darwin. He had to gain a little bit of weight in order to be neutered, so I waited and waited. Eventually, he came home. He has been with me ever since.

Darwin is my first cat, although my mother had cats while I was growing up. Having my own cat has been the best experience of my life. Darwin is so playful, LOVES food, and enjoys cuddling and snuggling with me any time of day. He is a happy spirit that greets me after tough days. He is a big chonk to squeeze during our "after shower snuggles" (a special time he likes to snuggle because he loves the texture of bath towels). He is the yogurt stealing, kitty litter spreading, hell raising, love of my life. He has stayed by me through it all.

Most recently we moved to Missouri for my job. I recently graduated from Auburn University (War Eagle) and took a job as a research technician in a little rural town called Portageville. Darwin and my gang (Carlos and Auggie - dogs) came with. The adjustment had been excruciatingly painful, as I left a place I truly loved in pursuit of a career. Darwin has been there to hold during all my tears shed. I just can't imagine my life without him.