Paralyzed Kitten Left in a Cardboard Box to Die Arrives Needing Immediate Care

Meet Gary, a resilient and determined kitten with a heart full of courage. His journey began in the most unlikely of places—a parking lot. At just 5 weeks old and weighing a mere pound, Gary was discovered alone, emaciated, and covered in fleas. His fragile body had endured unimaginable trauma, leaving him without the use of his back legs, a paralyzed tail, and a severely injured front right leg.

When Gary was found, his tiny cries of pain echoed through the parking lot. His condition was dire; he wouldn't eat and was clearly suffering.While we will never know exactly what happened to little Gary, his injuries are most indicative of being hit by a car, and it is truly amazing that he survived.

Gary's story took a hopeful turn when he was rescued by the Footbridge Foundation.

On that first night, the entire Footbridge team was on edge, fearing that Gary's battle might be too great to overcome. Yet, this little fighter amazed us all with his will to survive. After being treated for fleas and parasites, he was given pain medication and placed in the loving care of a foster with extensive experience in medical cases. Gary's injuries had left his bladder unable to function independently, requiring him to be expressed four times a day. But with tender love and care, Gary began to show his incredible spirit.

Footbridge Foundation partnered with a local veterinary clinic to conduct diagnostic X-rays, revealing the extent of Gary's injuries. His right front leg had a severely fractured humerus, and his spinal injury resulted in neurological deficits, leaving him paralyzed and unable to use the restroom on his own. Despite these challenges, we wanted to give Gary's tiny body time to heal before deciding on a long-term plan. Miraculously, Gary started to regain sensation in his back legs. To our astonishment, days later, he was able to use the litter box on his own again! His remarkable recovery gave us hope and reinforced our commitment to his journey. Gary's resilience proved that he was not giving up without a fight.

Now, he needs your help to continue his path to recovery. Gary's initial X-rays and medications have already cost around $450. The next crucial step in his journey involves surgery to amputate his paralyzed tail and repair his fractured leg. This specialized surgery, essential for Gary's quality of life, is estimated to cost over $2,500.

Gary's story is one of survival, a testament to his will to live. He embodies the importance of saving lives every day, showing us how vital our mission is. This summer, as we strive to make our biggest impact yet, we ask for your support. Every donation, no matter the size, brings Gary one step closer to a pain-free life and a loving forever home. Your generosity will not only help Gary but also hundreds of other kittens who, like him, need a second chance at life. Footbridge Foundation is dedicated to rescuing and nurturing these precious lives. Together, we can turn Gary's story of survival into a story of triumph. Please join us in making a difference. Gary's journey to health and happiness depends on your support. Let’s give him the future he deserves.