I am from laughter, joyfulness, and a caring family,

from my very first furry friend on Christmas morning,

to my 10th birthday at Disneyland with friends.

I am from lovable and playful Furry Friends,

from Wagging Tails, distant purrs, and close churrs.

I am from the hit-and-run which saved my life but

killed his, whose death broke my tiny heart but let

me live.

I am from my mother's near death, and my father's

deportation, From Lucky's death and Buddy’s disappearance.

I am from licks on the cheek and Cuddles at night,

and from always being by my side,

from being there when I need to heal.

I am from having races to the mailbox and back home.

Americans should eliminate the regular Laboratory test on innocent animals because the elimination of the Laboratory test leads to preventable deaths of innocent creatures and expensive equipment and broken hearts.

-Arleen Rodriguez-