Hi, I'm Rhian Alyssa. I've suffered from chronic pain for over 3 years and haven't been able to work. I recently underwent 2 failed spine fusion operations that left me temporarily in a wheelchair with awful nerve damage in my right leg. I've since recovered and live a somewhat normal and independent life, but the pain is still there. I decided to move back home to Australia in December 2013, as my body hurts more with the cold UK climate.

As I was calculating the costs, I realized there is no way I can afford the £3000 it will cost to bring my dog with me. This cost includes buying a crate to fly her in, shipping, meeting the strict Australian regulations and paying for blood tests, vaccinations, signed health certificates etc, as well as an import permit and a minimum of 30 days in quarantine. Each day in quarantine alone will cost $39 Australian dollars, and there is no saying how long they'll decide to keep her there.

It already made me cry at the thought of putting my little Lacey through all this, but it breaks my heart just thinking of leaving her behind altogether. That's why I need your help. I know there are many more worthwhile causes to donate to, but I'd appreciate if you could give as little as you can.

I got Lacey when I was 18. My little brother had moved back to Australia a few months before, and I was feeling very lost and alone without him. She managed to help ease some of the loneliness. When my back and sciatic pains started, she was there. Relationship ended, she was there. Depression, she was there. When I was made homeless a year ago, she was there. And when I was in hospital after my first operation, the head nurse gave me permission to go home for a few hours to see her because I missed her so much. Spending 6 weeks in hospital away from her was tough enough. I can't imagine never seeing her again.

Lacey has been the only constant thing in my life these past 5 years, and starting a new life abroad will be a lot less scary knowing I have my best friend by my side. I know it's very unlikely I'll reach my target, but if I do and have money leftover, I will give it all to an animals charity to help other furry little friends! Thank-you so much for reading xo