Hi, I’m April from Moses Lake, WA.

9 months ago we were told “don’t treat him.” He lived anyway.

This is Brutus, my 12-year-old Rottweiler. Last August, our local vet found oral melanoma and said it was terminal. We chose love over euthanasia.

He proved them wrong. For 9 months he’s eaten, played, and loved with a tumor in his mouth. On 4/20/26 his chest X-rays were clear.

Yesterday at WSU Veterinary Hospital, we got the truth: WSU’s scanner found the cancer spread to his lymph node and one lung. But they also found hope.

WSU’s oncologists said 3 rounds of radiation can put his mouth tumor into remission. Not a cure, but it would shrink the mass so he can eat without pain. They were “very positive” it would help his quality of life.

The cost for radiation: $4,000–$5,000. There’s also a trial vaccine for his lung that brings total to $8,000.

Here’s where I need you: I had the funds. Overnight my family situation changed and I’m now at $0. I’m writing this from a Pullman Airbnb because I drove 3 hours for his appointment. My host Emily is helping me fundraise locally so I can stay for his treatments.

Brutus ate dinner tonight. After sedation, new pain meds — he still ate. That’s who he is. He’s not done fighting.

Every dollar goes directly to WSU College of Veterinary Medicine for Brutus Stewart’s radiation. If we raise more, it goes to the trial vaccine. If we can’t, I’ll make sure he’s comfortable and loved for whatever time he has left.

If you can’t donate, please share. Pullman, Moses Lake, Rottie lovers — you’re his village now.

Updates: I’ll post daily with photos + WSU receipts. You’ll see exactly where your money goes.

Thank you for helping me buy my best friend more pain-free meals.

– April & Brutus