This year, I am walking the Furry 5k in honor of my two rescue cats, who I lost in the last two years: Maggie and Mimi (collectively known as "Mippins.")

I adopted Mimi in 2000 from the Seattle Animal Shelter, and I rescued Maggie from the streets a year later. They became immediately pair-bonded, always snuggling and loving on each other. They were the very best of friends. Mimi was never the same after Maggie passed in 2013, and I lost Mimi just a few weeks ago. Both of them died from cancer, a pain and struggle I personally know all too well. I know that I gave them the best kitty life I could, and I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to be loved by them.

Please donate to support the efforts of the Seattle Animal Shelter to care for animals who have not yet found their forever homes, the way Mimi and Maggie did with me.

The Seattle Animal Shelter takes in approximately 6,000 stray and owner-surrendered animals each year. Many of these animals are in need of a new start, lots of love and often significant vet and behavioral care. To provide care for these sick, injured and abused animals, the Seattle Animal Shelter created the Help the Animals Fund (HTAF) in 1977.

As the Seattle Animal Shelter’s veterinary needs expanded, volunteers started the Furry 5K in 1999 to fundraise and promote awareness for the Help the Animals Fund. All proceeds from the Furry 5K directly support the Help the Animals Fund. Veterinary care needs continue to expand and last year the Help the Animals Fund paid for over $140,000 worth of veterinary bills.