Widdle's Story

Selena – or Widdle, as I liked to call her – was my 6-year-old yorkie that I lost unexpectedly in November 2018. She chose me as her human when she was a puppy and a special bond was formed right then. If you ever had this experience, you understand exactly what I mean! 

In March 2018, I found out she had a collapsed trachea and needed a stent procedure done to open her air way. Once the stent was placed, I was looking forward to another 7 years, at least, with my girl. But, over the next 5-6 months, her frequent coughing and difficulties breathing sent us back to the vet for many follow up visits. She needed another stent placed due to inflammation that steroids and other medications would not control. Over the next few weeks, I saw my little girl getting worse and her breathing much more labored. The stent she needed had to be special ordered, and, despite my best efforts to get it quickly, we just had to wait. I think I was at the ER weekly to have her checked. I didn’t care about the cost, the time it took, etc. – I just wanted her to get better. The night before she passed, there was so much inflammation she couldn’t eat without choking, and the lack of oxygen from the swelling would cause her to pass out. I went back and forth to the hospital with her several times. The doctors couldn’t do much, and I was just praying the stent would arrive soon. I took her home for the night.

Early morning, Tuesday, November 20, 2018, I woke up and noticed immediately that her breathing was odd – even her coloring wasn’t right. As I rushed her to the ER, she stopped breathing on the way. Unfortunately, their best efforts couldn’t save her. She was gone, and I was heartbroken. Her stent arrived later that day. 

A few days later, I had a follow up visit with Widdle’s specialty veterinarian to get the results of a biopsy he had done of her tissue. I found out those results will help with the data for future research and will also help with post-stent procedures to try to prevent this type of thing from happening to others. This doesn’t bring her back, but her story isn’t over. And, as sad as I am that the stent didn’t arrive in time for her, it will keep for up to 2 years and could save the life of someone else’s beloved yorkie. 

After processing all this for a few weeks, I wanted to do something in honor of Widdle. I started researching local area animal shelters and saw one that listed a request for Christmas-themed toys. I decided then that I would try to visit as many local area shelters as I could and give out Christmas toys for all their animals. This was a great experience! Through this, I realized that I wanted people to know Widdle's story and to show them how special she was.  I grew up around many animals, but none had nearly the impact on me that Widdle had. She was a special gift to my life and will always be in my heart. So, I started this nonprofit organization in her name, to honor her and keep her memory alive. I know with a great team of volunteers we can help many animals in need and continue her story.

Thank you for your support,

James Marcus Perkins

Founder, The Widdle Foundation, Inc.