Gerri: How did you meet Ty, and how long ago?
Michelle: Ty was originally owned by a friend of my daughter. When they moved and couldn’t keep him, we took him in. It wasn’t easy for them, but we worked hard to make Ty feel at home — and he became family right away.
Gerri: What led you to Bruno’s?
Michelle: In 2013, I lost my job and didn’t know how I was going to feed Ty. A friend told me about Bruno’s, so I filled out an application and submitted my information. Bruno’s has helped me feed Ty every month since. I don’t know what I would have done without their help.
Gerri: What has that meant to you over the years?
Michelle: It relieved my stress — it’s the same as if you couldn’t feed your kids.
Gerri: What would it mean if Bruno’s couldn’t continue providing food?
Michelle: I’d be scared. Not just for Ty, but for all the animals out there. No one wants to give up their pets because of hard times.
Gerri: Finally, what would you like to say to our supporters like Petco, RedRover, and Rescue Bank?
Michelle: First, thank you! Bruno’s is the best thing that’s happened in this community. Nothing is sadder than having so much love for your pet but not being able to afford their food. God bless Bruno’s.
About Michelle
Michelle G. is a 65-year-old lifelong resident of Elgin, Illinois. She and her husband Denis have two adult children and four grandchildren. Michelle worked for years as a mental health professional at the Larkin Center of Elgin before losing her job after a corporate merger. We met Michelle after she suffered a severe fall, breaking her shoulder and foot.
Later, she reached back out to share a touching message:
“I do everything for Ty — I bathe him, walk him, brush him, clean his ears, give him car rides, let him up on the bed and furniture. But he does more for me than I’ll ever be able to do for him. Some people have the love, room, and patience for animals — they just don’t have the means to feed them. Keep doing what you’re doing. God bless you for all your help.”