Rocko Buddy has been my loyal companion since I rescued him from the pound in 2017, when he was four years old. Bringing him home was like springing him from prison—he arrived with kennel cough, but after immediate treatment, he thrived and became a beloved part of my life. Over the years, Rocko has brought joy and laughter to everyone he meets, from my family to every roommate who’s ever lived with us. He’s a silly, expressive mutt with a big personality, a love for walks, and a nightly need to be swaddled before bed. His resilience has always amazed me—he even survived being hit by a car in 2020, proving just how tough he is.

A year ago, Rocko developed a lump that turned out to be harmless, but earlier this year, he began having trouble breathing. After several tests, we received the heartbreaking diagnosis: B cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. Thankfully, it’s a slow-developing cancer, which gives us hope for remission with the right treatment. Rocko’s care now includes steroids, chemotherapy medication (Chlorambucil), monthly injections, and regular follow-ups with specialists. The costs add up quickly—medications, ultrasounds, lymph node aspirations, and further testing by an oncologist are all essential for his recovery. His treatment is expected to be significant, but remission could give him several more happy years.

Rocko has always been there for me, and now I want to be there for him. I’m reaching out to friends, family, and animal lovers everywhere to help give Rocko the fighting chance he deserves. Any support—whether through donations or simply sharing his story—means the world to us. Thank you for being part of Rocko’s village and helping him on his journey to remission.