Aerys (pronounced air-iss) is a 6-year-old German Shepherd and the heart of our closest friend Ashley Angstadt's world. Ashley is a single mom of three, and through life's hardest moments—divorce, change, and raising her children—Aerys has been her constant. He is her teammate, her stability, and her best friend. From the moment he was born, they've been inseparable, accomplishing incredible things together, including competing in Flyball and even making it to the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. But more than any achievement, Aerys is Ashley's support, comfort, and family.

Recently, their world was turned upside down. Late last year, Ashley noticed something wasn't right with Aerys during a Flyball tournament. What seemed like a simple tooth abscess turned out to be much more serious. A biopsy revealed that Aerys has an aggressive spindle cell tumor in his upper jaw. Thankfully, the cancer has not spread, but he needs surgery immediately to remove the tumor and part of his jaw. This is his only chance to survive and continue living the life he loves. The cancer is aggressive to where it is likely to reoccur and will likely one day end his life, but this surgery gives him the best chances at having more comfortable time with us.

Today, we met with an oral surgeon who emphasized the urgency of removing the tumor because of how quickly it is growing. The only opportunity for surgery is this upcoming Wednesday, and it is expected to last several hours. The funds raised will go directly towards Aerys's surgery, giving him the best chance to stay by Ashley's side and continue being her family's source of love and support.

Absolutely any support will help us be able to do this for them and we are eternally grateful for every bit of it, every share, and every well wish.