Hi, my name is Tory, and I’m putting this together for two of my closest friends, Carter and Miranda, and their German shepherd, Max. If you know them, you know how loved this dog is. Max has been part of their story since day one—Carter even proposed to Miranda with Max as a tiny puppy, the ring tied to his collar. He’s been their heartbeat through every season of their life.

On Friday, December 5th, Max was diagnosed with stomach cancer. It's devastating and completely unexpected. His initial surgery and aftercare treatment is estimated to cost between $9,000 and $14,000, but if chemo is needed it could be more. Carter and Miranda are fully prepared to take that on, I’m hoping we can help ease that burden so they can focus on being present with him.

Carter is a firefighter and paramedic—he’s the kind of person who shows up for everyone, in and out of uniform. He’s a genuine pillar in his community. And Miranda… she hosts these warm, joy-filled dinner parties, knits her friends sweaters and has one of the biggest, juiciest hearts of anyone I know. They pour into their people without hesitation. They are always there for everyone who needs them.

If you feel called to donate, truly any amount helps. Thank you for reading this, for caring, and for supporting a family who has spent so much of their lives supporting others. Max means the world to them.