In a heart-wrenching announcement that has left social media users across the globe mourning, the internet's beloved Shiba Inu, Cheems, has died at the age of 12 during cancer surgery.
Adopted by a caring family in Hong Kong, Cheems first achieved viral fame back in 2017 when a photograph of his adorably round, smiling face took the internet by storm.
Widely celebrated for his love of cheeseburgers—aptly captured by his viral meme persona, "Cheemsburger"—Cheems became a symbol of solace and joy during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The dog's owners, who affectionately called him "Ball Ball" on social media platforms, penned an emotional tribute on Instagram: "Ball Ball fell asleep on Friday morning during his last thoracentesis surgery. Originally, we wanted to arrange chemotherapy or other possible treatment for him after this operation, but it is too late now."
They continued, "Don't be sad, please remember the joy that Balltze brought to the world. A Shiba Inu with a round smiling face connecting you and me, he has helped many people during the pandemic and brought a lot of joy to many of you, but now his mission has been completed."
The owners expressed their gratitude towards the medical staff and the unwavering community of online supporters.
"All of you have been very generous and helpful, and I’m truly grateful to all of you, your love and support to Ball Ball is so unconditional and I found that is the purest love in the world, having Ball Ball in my life is the best thing ever happened."
Donations collected for Cheems' medical treatment will be donated to local animal charities.
The Shiba Inu breed has an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, making Cheems' departure all the more poignant. Social media was flooded with tributes.
One Twitter user wrote: "You were the best. You will be in our hearts. Rest well," alongside the hashtag "cheems".
Another added: "Cheems, the beloved dog who became an internet sensation, has left a void in our hearts with his passing. Though he's no longer with us, his iconic memes will continue to thrive on our devices, in our thoughts & across the digital landscape. As long as this meme exists, Cheems' legacy remains undiminished."
A third wrote: "Actually heartbreaking every time we lose those gave us amazing memes. RIP and blessed be the owner who gave us Cheems."
A forth penned this heartbreaking tribute: "Oh no. RIP Cheems. Thanks for everything. You will always be remembered...for real!"
A final fan tweeted: "Rest in peace my dear cheems, you were a true healer."
Cheems' digital footprint is everlasting. The iconic memes, the laughter he brought to millions, and the worldwide adoration for this four-legged meme sensation remain. It's a powerful reminder of the unifying and healing powers of internet culture, even in the face of real-world loss.
Thank you, Cheems, for making the world a little bit happier; you will be sorely missed but never forgotten.
Our thoughts are with Cheems' loved ones at this difficult time.
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