Friday, July 2, 2010

Why We Do What We Do

Greyhounds Rock is a non-profit charity (501 (c) (3) applied for) that friends and I run.  Our mission is to raise funds for Canine Cancer Research, especially Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) which is common in greyhounds and other long-boned dogs (like Dobermans, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, etc.)  I had intended that my first real post on this blog would be to give you the story of how we started and what we do ... but I have something else to tell you about today.

I was out running errands yesterday afternoon.  My phone chirped as I pulled into the parking lot at Lowes, alerting me that I had a new text message.  The message from my friend Kim said, "TJ broke his ankle in 3 places - cancer not ruled out."  This morning, the news from the vet confirmed our worst fears .... Cancer. 




Four years ago, at the age of four, TJ was Kim and Andy's foster dog.  He came from Wheeling, West Virginia, and he needed a place to stay until a permanent home could be found.  He quickly made it known that he WAS home. 




TJ was a Therapy Dog from the moment he arrived.  He loves people, and he works his shifts at the hospital with Kim like a professional ... it's just how he is.


TJ dressed in 'scrubs' for Halloween one year.


He's friendly, and goofy, and curious.  Everything that makes a perfect Therapy Dog.

His 'brother' Howe looks on as TJ checks thing out.


Kim is one of my dearest friends, and I love TJ as if he were my own.  My heart breaks for them.  I don't know yet what will happen next ... whether they will treat his cancer, or whether they will kiss him goodbye. 

Please include Kim and Andy and TJ in your prayers ... they need all the comfort they can get right now.

10 comments:

F Cameron said...

I'm so sorry to hear of the health concerns for your friend's dear greyhound. Such sweet companions. Thoughts and prayers.

Cameron and 'Charm'

Linda @ A La Carte said...

My heart is breaking for your friend and TJ! Greyhounds are the best and sweetest dogs I have ever met. My 1/2 brother has two and I adore them. So sad! I will follow to see what happens.

Low Tide High Style said...

Connie, I'm so sorry to hear this news! I will keep all of them in my thoughts and prayers!

Kat

Living the life in The Little City said...

Very sad. He looks like a very sweet dog. I'm sorry for you guys.

Ms. A said...

Nooooo! Sending up prayers for TJ and his family. *tear

country rose corner said...

Connie, I am so sorry, I have been lucky to have my dogs live to ages Ricci 13,Sheni 13, Jack 13 and Ben 16 and now have Max my german shepherd who is 6 next week. It is utterly heartbreaking when our pets who are our family pass away or are ill - I sincerely hope TJ doesnt suffer - Betty xxx

Anonymous said...

We lost a dog to cancer in the summer of 2008. We chose not to have cancer treatments done since when discovered the cancer in his shoulder was just too far gone.

I know the emotions involved here and am wishing for a GOOD outcome.

Di

deborah said...

My heart is breaking for all of you. Hugs, thoughts and prayers
xoxo

AmericanWoman said...

My heart and prayers go out to Kim and hubby. I just recently lost two of my cats 2 weeks apart. They are so much a part of us it does not seem fair that their lives are so short. But very full. I hope TJ can recover.

From the Kitchen said...

My heart goes out to all three of you. We have been the lucky "parents" of three dalmatians. We lost our precious Argos a few months ago. It was a difficult decision for us since he was only 11 (our first was 14 but no easier to lose). Several weeks ago, still grieving, we opened our home and heart to Oliver, a three year old. Quite different since the first two were six weeks old. Ollie has already wrapped his wagging tail around our hearts. I'll be thinking about you as you make decisions for sweet TJ.

Best,
Bonnie