I’m not someone who has ever set up a GoFundMe page, but this is an exceptional case. My neighbor’s dad is temporarily living in Blackstone while receiving medical treatment at Dana-Farber, and with him is his beloved rescue dog, Handsome.

Handsome was found as a stray in Georgia and has been a loyal companion and emotional support ever since. Many around town know him for his adventurous spirit, he’s quite the escape artist! We often joke that he should have named him “Houdini”. While we’ve finally gotten that under control, during efforts to get him neutered and vaccinated, we learned that Handsome is both Lyme and heartworm positive.

Now, for those wondering how someone going through their own medical challenges will care for a dog in need of treatment, the answer is easy: he has me, Pete and Matthew. Handsome is Buddy’s best friend (Buddy is my dog), and I’ve promised to take Handsome in and care for him while he heals. He won’t be going through this alone.

The full cost of heartworm treatment is out of reach for his dad right now. Some generous donations have already come in, and we’re down to needing about $1000.00 more to get him through it (this includes treating Lyme, getting neutered, getting his booster vaccines and treating heartworm).

So today, I’m calling in every favor I’ve ever earned. If I’ve ever helped you, or even if this just touches your heart—I’m asking for your help now. Any amount you can give would mean the world. Even small donations add up and will go directly toward saving this sweet dog’s life.

Thank you so much for your compassion and generosity.