BUFFALO, N.Y. — The City of Buffalo Animal Shelter has asked for "thoughts and prayers" after their longtime director Kelly McCartney recently experienced a medical emergency.
In a Facebook post, the shelter said McCartney was "fighting for her life" and many people in the comments said they were sending her and her family strength.
2 On Your Side has verified a GoFundMe has been set up to support McCartney at this time. There have been over 200 donations made totaling nearly $24,000.
According to the GoFundMe created by friend Kathleen Galbraith, McCartney has worked in the local animal welfare community for over 27 years, including many years at the City Shelter.
It goes on to say that she's been placed in a medically induced coma after entering the hospital last week.
You can read the full post below:
"Today, Kelly is in a medically induced coma. She entered the hospital last week with a complaint of intense pain. After several days of testing and imaging, she was rushed into surgery. While under anesthesia, Kelly had a heart-related event and coded on the table. Doctors worked continuously until they were able to resuscitate her, but there was so much damage. Her body now needs time to focus on healing.
Kelly's life hangs in the balance. After caring for animals and people alike, Kelly should have the backing and prayer of every person she has ever helped along the way. She should have the goodwill from every animal saved on her watch. Her sacrifices should come back to her tenfold, by way of support.
Employees of CBAS are pleading Kelly's case with the City's union because she has spent all of her personal time caring for her aunt. Now, Kelly is in need. It is time for her to be the focus, and for us, the community, to shed light on the sacrifices rescuers make and at what expense. It is time for us to back Kelly in her hour of greatest need."
For more information on Kelly's story and medical recovery, visit the GoFundMe page here.
