It is a very busy and important time of the year saving money for my kids. 

The medical help, prayers and adoptions continue, but money is the life blood that makes things happen.

On Sunday at Spiegel Farm is the annual Animal Fair. One month later, on May 20 at Sunnydale Cabin, I’ll be hosting the 11th annual Gala for Lennie’s Kids and, for the third year, the Rescue Rally will be our theme. 

The Foothills Humane Society, Pet Tender Angels, Paws, Prayers and Promises, Service Animal Project, Forever Dream Sanctuary, and, of course, Lennie’s Kids, will be featured.

Over the years, I’ve also dealt with many individual rescues — one such lady is Patti Peak. 

Patti is a rescuing giant who has saved the lives of hundreds of animals that I’m aware of. 

She began her rescue with Chris Hume, who we unfortunately lost to cancer a few years ago. The tireless little lady with a heart too big for her body doubled down on her mission and I often envision Chris smiling down on her with a nod of approval.

Bambi a 14-year-old female Yorkie was set to be put to sleep due to some sort of blood disorder, plus a whole bunch of dental work was needed. There wasn’t any money for all that was needed, and Bambi had quit eating.

Patti would have none of it, and she took little Bambi to Landrum vet to see what could be done. 

I’m not aware of all that was done, but Bambi began eating again, and she thrives on whatever attention she receives, showering the lucky person with kisses. 

“Lennie?” Patti asked. “I need help finding a home for Bambi. She’ll probably be on meds the rest of her life.” 

“She’s sweet, isn’t she Patti?” 

“She stole my heart the instant I saw her,” Patti replied.   

“Don’t they all?” I said, laughing.

I introduced Patti to Verna Wilkins from Forever Dream Sanctuary, and, as I suspected, the two rescue warriors hit it off.

As of this writing, Bambi’s teeth have been fixed, with some of them removed. She is thriving like a puppy, and I believe she spends more time being held out of her cage then in it. 

Best of all, Verna agreed to take Bambi into her sanctuary, and a loving home has been found for Bambi to live out her life.

This is one of the many rescues that are happening every day. 

If you can, come to my gala and meet this fabulous group of people. They do God’s work.

Oh, by the way, bring a fat checkbook.

Thanks for listening.

Leonard Rizzo, of Columbus, is the founder of the nonprofit Foothills animal support organization Lennie’s Fund, and is the author of “A Voice in the Hills.”