My dear friends Matt and Sara learned last week that their 8-year old Border Collie, Frankie, has aggressive osteosarcoma. The news hit Matt and Sara very hard, as Frankie is their world. The osteosarcoma was discovered in Frankie’s hind ankle or hock. Frankie spent a few weeks not putting any pressure on his back leg. Through a series of Denver vet appointments, that eventually led to Colorado State University, Matt and Sara learned of the diagnosis and needed to take immediate action, as the oncology vet found that the cancer had not visibly spread yet. Frankie underwent a hind leg amputation on September 11th and will be starting chemotherapy in a couple weeks to manage further spread of the cancer. He has a significant recovery ahead of him and he is eager to get back to his title of “trail boss” as soon as possible for as long as possible. This news is further devastating to the whole family because in 2020 Frankie developed severe cardiomyopathy and beat the odds to recover his heart function enough to hike up 13ers with Matt and Sara last year. His last cardiac check came back with the verdict that he had beat the cardiomyopathy and had turned the corner.

Matt and Sara are hardworking members of the Salida community, with Matt working at Monarch Ski Area and Sara working at the hospital. The vet bills are adding up, and I know it must be putting a strain on them financially. I set up this GoFundMe to help!

Frankie is the sweetest dog, who becomes best friends with everyone he meets. He is incredibly smart, loving, and communicative. He goes everywhere with Matt and Sara, as one of the family. He greets strangers with a roll on the back, gently suggesting a belly rub. At 8 years old, this sudden news is devastating.

What would you do for one more year, one more month, one more day with someone you can’t imagine your life without? Thank you for whatever help you can give. No donation is too small. I know Matt, Sara, and Frankie (D) thank you from the bottom of their hearts!