Source: Beaumonte Enterprise
When Memphis, Kim Brent’s cat, became critically ill with severe anemia from advanced oral cancer, multiple transfusions might have prolonged his life but only with continued suffering. The humane choice was euthanasia. Days later, Memphis’s brother Skeets showed similar symptoms—also anemic, with an abnormal heart rhythm—and urgently needed blood transfusions.
The Veterinary hospital’s supply was depleted, and regular donor cats couldn’t donate again. Veterinary technician Taylor Frusha volunteered her own cat, Evangeline (“Evie”), a healthy one-year-old and perfect match. Evie’s donation saved Skeets’s life. Skeets spent three days hospitalized, receiving fluids, oxygen, and Evie’s lifesaving blood. Meeting Evie afterward was emotional for Kim, who realized the critical role pet blood donors play in Veterinary care. The experience sparked a desire to share the story of these “unsung heroes” and raise awareness about the ongoing need for animal blood donations, which sometimes outpaces the ability of staff pets to meet demand.