A series of unfortunate events
This is Luna. She’s an 18-month-old cavoodle, and she is honestly one of the most intelligent and loving dogs I’ve ever met. She’s my best friend and has been my comfort through some of the hardest moments of my life.
My name is Ashton, and I’m currently studying Data Science at the University of Melbourne. I never imagined I would be in this position, but life has taken a very difficult turn.
While travelling in Thailand, I received the devastating news that my mum had been diagnosed with Thoracic Chordoma, a rare type of bone cancer in her spine. I immediately came home to be with her. Because of this, I didn’t work for a while so I could spend what I thought might be her last months by her side. She has since had to travel to Switzerland for proton therapy, as the treatment she needs isn’t available here in Australia. She isn’t wealthy, and the situation has been incredibly hard on her and the whole family.
While she’s been away, I was forced to live with my father, who is a neglectful narcissist. Things became violent when he started a fight with me. I didn’t want to fight him, but I had to defend myself. After that, I had nowhere to go.
For a little while, Luna and I were homeless. I managed to get a car loan, and we are now living out of that car together. It’s not ideal, but at least we have each other. I’ve managed to get my old job back, starting this Saturday, but I won’t be paid straight away.
Right now, I desperately need time and stability to study. The only way I can do that is by leaving Luna outside for hours while I’m in the library. I check on her as much as possible, but it breaks my heart. Soon my shifts will be 8 hours or more, and I can’t bear the thought of leaving her alone and cold. My only option feels like dropping her at the RSPCA, but I truly, deeply don’t want to give her away.
I am reaching out for emergency help so that Luna and I can get sorted. Whether it’s temporary foster care, help with basic costs, or even just sharing this story, anything would mean the world to us.
I love Luna more than anything. She’s my family, my support, and the reason I’ve been able to keep going. Please, if you can, help me keep her safe and with me.
