Hi, my name is Randy McGrann, and this is my dog, Cora.

Cora was born on January 2, 2019, in the Yampa Valley of Colorado. She was the smallest of what I believe was 11 puppies. At the age of 7 months, Cora entered my life. She was not like most dogs her age - sweet, quiet, and gentle. Yet she could turn on her puppy energy in a snap. We spent much of our time outdoors, and when it wasn't playtime, Cora would join me at work. She grew bigger and brighter every day. Everyone that ever met Cora knew what a special dog she was - intelligent, sweet, and as beautiful as a pitbull-mutt could be.

Cora and I on top of Mt. Elbert, the hightest point in Colorado.

In the spring of 2021, we moved back to my home state of Montana, and I got to show Cora my old stomping grounds. We still spend our time outside as much as we can - hiking, backpacking, swimming, fishing, you name it. Our bond has grown stronger than ever, and I see her as the greatest companion in my lifetime.

Cora and I on a quick day trip to a mountain lake in Idaho.

On Monday, September 26, 2022, Cora went to the veterinary clinic to check a couple of lumps that I noticed on her neck. The doctors took some routine tests - and then the bad news came.

Cora was diagnosed with Lymphoma.

At the age of less than four years, Cora now had roughly two months to live.

Weighing the options, our family could not stand the thought of Cora being gone at such a young age. However, with chemotherapy treatment, Cora can live a happy and active rest of her life.

The recommended chemotherapy treatment involves 25 weeks of therapy and utilizes four chemotherapeutic agents: Vincristine, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, and Prednisone. The clinical remission rate is about 85-90%, with an average survival rate of 1 year.

We decided to begin chemotherapy treatment as soon as possible (two days later). The most significant success rate comes when treatment starts before the dog shows any changes in behavior and appetite. At this point, Cora is the same happy and energetic dog she has always been.

As you can imagine, chemotherapy for canine lymphoma is quite expensive. That is why Cora and I need the help of our friends, family, and community. The funds in this fundraiser will go towards Cora's chemotherapy treatment to keep her happy and healthy during her final months with us.

Cora showing off her spots.

If you have met or known Cora, you would know just how special this dog is and how much she means to so many people. This dog has changed my life in countless ways, and I believe she has so much more time to spend touching the lives of others.

We humbly ask you to reach out and donate to help pay for Cora's chemotherapy treatment. Please share this fundraiser and help Cora live a quality rest of life.

Cora as a puppy.

Thank You.

Yours Truly,

Randy McGrann

Our first hike together in Colorado.

Update 1/8/2023

Hey friends and family! I just wanted to give you all an update on my dog Cora and her cancer diagnosis.

Over the last three months, Cora has been receiving chemotherapy on a regular basis. She has taken all of the medications in stride and has responded to them greatly. Other than a couple rough days, Cora has been the same happy, active dog she has always been. I am amazed with how strong Cora has been through all of this! I could not be happier!

Cora has now entered what is called the "Maintenance Phase" of chemotherapy. This essentially means that she will be receiving less medication less often. After a couple months of this, all we can do is hope for the best.

I wanted to extend a sincere thank you to everyone that has donated and reached out to me through this. I am in tears thinking of all of the lives she has touched and the impression she has left so far. With your help, we have raised over $1500 to help pay for her treatment! I am absolutely floored by this. From the bottom of our hearts - Thank you, thank you, a thousand times thank you. You all have no idea how much your financial and emotional support has meant to me.

Thank you all so much, and Happy New Year.

Randy and Cora