Help Bear Fight Cancer

Hi everyone,

I'm Emma, better known as Bear's mom. If you're reading this, you've likely been blessed by Bear's fluffy, calm (and maybe stinky) presence over the past 9 years.

Bear's Diagnosis: Just weeks before my graduate thesis defense, what started as routine surgery to remove some benign bumps turned into devastating news. A new vet I was seeing at Kerrisdale Vet Hospital was the first to properly investigate the gum growth I'd been mentioning to other vets for months. The biopsy confirmed our worst fears: Bear has malignant oral melanoma.

In dogs, this cancer is typically fatal. However, there's hope - a specialized oral melanoma vaccine that's proven to extend quality of life by up to 6 months compared to no treatment.

The Good News: Bear is currently in excellent health despite his diagnosis. His lab results are strong, he's still his usual self, and both the internal medicine team and our vets are optimistic about his response to treatment. He appears unbothered by his condition and still demands his daily butt scratches.

The Challenge: The treatment isn't cheap. Here's what we're looking at:

• 4 initial vaccine injections over 8 weeks: ~$6,400

• Additional boosters if successful: ~$1,600 each

• Regular labs and checkups: ~$2,000

• Total by September 2025: approximately $10,000

Why I'm Asking: I adopted Bear when I was 24 and I've been his primary and often sole provider ever since. Over the last few years, between grad school and some personal legal challenges, resources have been tight. My family wants to help, but this is a substantial amount for anyone.

I've struggled with asking for help publicly. I know everyone faces their own challenges, and there are countless worthy causes competing for support. I also know that pet ownership comes with the promise of significant expenses and eventual heartbreak.

But Bear has touched so many lives over these 9 years together. If he's ever brought you joy - whether through a cuddle, a laugh, or just his goofy presence - I'm hoping you might consider helping extend his time with us.

How You Can Help Even the cost of a coffee cup makes a difference. Every dollar gets us closer to giving Bear the best possible chance at more quality time together.

July 10th marks 9 years with my fluffy mystery boy. Help me give him the gift of more birthdays to come. Thank you for considering a donation, and thank you for being part of Bear's extended family.

With gratitude, Emma (and Bear)