Hi everybody! We are a **NYC-based cat rescue group that helps NYC's homeless** cats in need. Our group consists of half immigrants (10 years+) and real New Yorkers. **We might not fall into the brackets, but the cats that we help do.** They are born on the streets of NYC or are simply abandoned by their owners. A few months ago, we rescued Charlie from an abusive situation - **he had spent 6 months trapped in a cage in the Bronx.** Unfortunately, **Charlie tested positive for FeLV and FIV.** Despite this fact, we were still able to find him a loving foster home in Astoria where he could thrive. Recently, he underwent a few dental extractions, and he will need more. Unfortunately, again, complications followed. **Because Charlie is FIV positive (commonly known as feline AIDS), his immune system is severely compromised, making it difficult for his body to heal. Any wound is risky - it can reopen, become infected, and turn painful and dangerous.** And that’s exactly what happened. **After surgery, Charlie developed an abscess on his cheek.** We rushed him to the vet, and the **abscess burst, leaving a large open wound on his face** **(BE AWARE - SENSITIVE CONTENT IN THIS POST).** He required emergency treatment, stitches, medication, and monitoring. **The cost has been high, and we cannot continue Charlie’s care without support.** Charlie is a gentle, affectionate, and adoptable boy who’s simply had no luck so far. **He can live with both FIV and FeLV** \- with proper care and precautions, many cats like him go on to live happy lives. **But in many city shelters, cats like Charlie are euthanized immediately** \- not because they’re suffering, but because they’re considered too "complicated" to care for. We refuse to give up on Charlie just because he’s positive for two major viruses. His life still matters. His story isn’t over. **Please help us fight for him! Link to donate in comments.**

Support Cat Connections NYC - Cat Rescue, whose mission is to connect all boroughs and save homeless NYC cats through connection!