Injured greyhounds need your help

The story of Lizzie, Rider and Opal

In October 2008, Elizabeth "Lizzie" Mead and her two rescued greyhounds were in an accident near Speedway and Alvernon in Tucson. The dogs were thrown from the vehicle and ran off, and Lizzie was rushed to the hospital.

Through a series of incredibly fortunate circumstances, both Rider and Opal were brought in to a veterinary clinic within an hour of the accident. They were both seriously injured, but survived and began their recovery. (You can read more details about their ordeal here.)

The initial vet bills alone, however, reached about $14,000.

Coming together to help

Greyhound rescuers and other supporters have established several fundraising programs to help pay the bills for the dogs' care. so far $7,000 has been raised.

Beadmakers and jewelers are donating beads, which are used to create one-of-a-kind beaded bracelets. These bracelets are being sold at Lizzie's store, Silver Sea Jewelry & Gifts at 330 N. 4th Avenue in Tucson, and online at etsy.com (GreytEscape's site). 

In addition, two local artists are contributing handmade objects of art, with proceeds going the vet bill fund.
 
Luann Jamison, local greyhound adopter and glass-making goddess, will donate the sale of four gorgeous handmade items (less shipping) to the vet bill fund. Luann makes beads and home accessories from fired glass. She invites you to check out a beautiful pendant on a rope, magical bracelet in fire shades of pink and teal, traditional Japanese braid necklace, and whimsical vase.
 
Marianne Bernsen, an artist of many mediums and friend of Karyn, is donating a hand-painted necklace which will be for sale at Silver Sea Jewelry & Gifts during the spring 4th Avenue Art Fair (March 20-22). Marianne’s one-of-a-kind necklaces are for sale around town at upscale boutiques and museum shops. Marianne is hosting a make-your-own floor cloth class on Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at her midtown studio. The class includes all materials and lunch and costs $100. You leave with a 2x2 finished floor cloth. If Feb. 21 is not a good date, please call Marianne at 971-5596 (Tucson) about other available dates.

How you can help

• Ask Gem & Mineral Show vendors and other crafters and retailers to donate beads
• Purchase bracelets online at etsy.com or at Silver Sea Jewelry & Gifts at 330 N. 4th Avenue in Tucson
• Purchase glass pieces from Luann Jamison
• Attend Marianne Bernsen's floor cloth class
• Donate directly. Go into any Compass Bank and write a check to “ELIZABETH MEAD/THE MEAD ACCIDENT DONATION FUND” (It must say Elizabeth Mead.) If you are not near a Compass Bank, send your check to Compass Bank, 7880 E. Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85710.
• Spread the word!