The Meme Dog "Cheems" Just Died

The Meme Dog "Cheems" Just Died during surgery:

Meet Balltze, or as many of you might recognize him, the lovable 'Doge' dog sensation Cheems. We're sorry to inform you that this meme cutie, who won our hearts with his confused faces for cheeseburgers (or should I say 'cheemsburgers' in meme language), died recently while having surgery.

Back in 2017, Balltze burst onto the internet scene as the viral meme sensation, earning himself a special spot in our hearts. His charming Shiba Inu appearance and his seemingly boundless affection for cheeseburgers quickly won him a place in meme history. This fame followed in the pawsteps of another beloved Shiba Inu, Kabosu, who famously became the face of Dogecoin.

Sadly, on this Friday morning (18th August, 2023), we had to say goodbye to Balltze after his brave battle during surgery. In an emotional Instagram post, his owner shared the heartbreaking news of the 12-year-old dog's unexpected passing. Within this heartfelt tribute, Balltze, also affectionately known as Ball Ball, was remembered for his journey. His owner revealed that in the last six months leading up to his passing, Ball Ball had undergone multiple surgeries.

The touching post shared these words: “On the 18th of August, Ball Ball peacefully drifted to sleep forever... He left us on a Friday morning while undergoing his last thoracentesis surgery (a procedure to remove fluid or air from around the lungs). Originally, our intention was to explore further treatments, such as chemotherapy, following this operation. However, fate had other plans."

This message then highlighted Balltze's climb to online celebrity, advising their community of 768,000 followers not to be sad. The message also continues as: “Please don't feel sadness, but rather recall the happiness that Balltze spread throughout the world. A Shiba Inu with a round, smiling face, bridging the gap between us all. During the epidemic of Covid - 19, he was a source of comfort for many, bringing joy to countless lives. Though his physical purpose is concluded, I suppose he is now free to wander across the infinite heaven, enjoying wonderful delights with his new friends. We will always remember him and his cute expression."

As all of us reacted to the sad news, Balltze's owner took a moment to thank medical teams for their bold support during Cheems' health challenges. He also expressed gratitude to people who produced memes and followed Shiba Inu's frame journey from its viral start.

The heartfelt Instagram message continued: “All of you have displayed incredible generosity and kindness. My heart fills with appreciation for everyone. Your unconditional love and support for Ball Ball represents the purest type of affection in the universe. Having Ball Ball in my life has been an unparalleled blessing. Thanks, everyone. Balltze knew how cherished he was by all of you."

In response to Balltze's sudden passing, his owner expressed the decision to direct the earnings from items sales meant for his medical care to animal charity. It's a heartfelt intent to keep up Balltze's legacy of generosity and compassion.

Let us remember Balltze for the delight he brought us, his famous smile, and the love he readily distributed. In a world that might feel divided at times, his furry presence brought us together in laughter and enjoyment. As we grieve, let us keep Balltze's spirit alive by sharing his happiness with others, both online and offline. He may not be alive, but his memories and the love he brought into our lives will always live on. And, the laughter he gave us will always be remembered by us.