Meet Truman, our sweet and loving 6-year-old Golden Retriever. Truman isn’t just our family dog—he’s a certified therapy dog who brings comfort and hope to hundreds of children. Every day, Truman joins Laura, who provides mental health care to children in schools, traveling to be a source of joy and healing for kids who need it most. His gentle, kind, and patient nature makes him the perfect therapy dog and an irreplaceable companion.

But now, Truman needs our help.

In November, Truman was diagnosed with a mast cell tumor on his leg. While surgery was able to remove part of the tumor, its location prevented doctors from getting it all. As with any cancer, if it isn't completely removed, it will return. Thankfully, the cancer hasn't spread, and we have the option to pursue radiation treatment to eliminate it entirely.

However, this treatment comes with significant challenges. The nearest veterinary cancer center is over 120 miles away requiring 19 consecutive visits—Monday through Friday for nearly four weeks. This daily drive will be physically and emotionally exhausting for Truman, and boarding may become necessary, though Truman has never been boarded before and could experience added stress.

The financial burden is overwhelming. We've already spent nearly $4,500 on tests, surgery, and consultations. Now, radiation treatment alone will cost another $7,500—and that doesn't include boarding, travel expenses, or potential complications. Altogether, Truman's fight against cancer is costing around $12,000—an expense we never expected.

Truman means the world to us and to so many others. He’s Laura’s yin to her yang, a loving big brother to our other Golden Retriever, Georgia, and an enthusiastic hiking partner for Laura and Jim. He loves fetch, swimming, running through the woods, and even competes in dock diving events for fun. At only 6 years old, with a life expectancy of 12 years, Truman has so much more life to live—and more love to give.

Many people have asked how they can help, and while we hesitated to ask for support, we realized that people love to give back to causes that matter. Truman has brought so much comfort and joy to others, and now he needs that love returned. Any contribution, big or small, will help us get Truman the treatment he needs to live a full, happy life.

If you'd like to donate, we would be forever grateful. If you'd prefer to send Truman a card or a picture, that love means just as much to us. Every kind gesture, in any form, is deeply appreciated.

Thank you for helping Truman keep bringing joy to the world. He truly is a good boy—a good friend—and makes our community a better place just by being in it.

With love and gratitude,

Laura, Jim, Georgia, and Truman