I was fortunate enough to complete the 2023 Chase Away K9 Cancer 5K with our current cancer warrior, Limoncello, and our cancer survivor, Lager. Both dogs’ cancers fall under the head/neck cancer category.
Limoncello’s journey is going documented HERE. She has a tumor that encompasses her right nasal passage, right eye socket, and has reached her brain. Due to the location of the tumor, it’s size, Cello’s age and her heart condition, only holistic methods are an option. She was originally given a few weeks to a few months to live. As of today, she has vibrantly celebrated 4 weeks and 2 days since her diagnosis.
You can read about Lager’s journey through oral cancer by clicking HERE. Lager was first thought to have Oral Papillary Squamous Cell Carcinoma, but with further pathology testing, it was discovered that he had Canine acanthomatous ameloblastoma (CAA). He had a rostral mandibulectomy in October 2022, leaving him with only 1/4 of his lower jaw. Over a year later, he is living his best life and has not let his cancer journey or his surgery slow him down ONE bit! The photos below show Lager’s jaw before (in a much younger picture of Lager) and after (a current photo of Lager).
Margarita was a Lymphoma survivor. Despite taking a bite out cancer by beating Lymphoma, she was taken from us suddenly a couple of years later in June 2021 by Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC).
We walked this 5K in small increments and in honor off ALL canine cancer warriors – both past and present. You’ll see Lager’s and Margarita’s name on our shirt because at the time I ordered our race swag, we were unaware of Limoncello’s diagnosis.
A dock diving friend participated in this 5K as well and we very much appreciate her walking for Cello and Lager!
Chase awash K9 Cancer is near and dear to my heart and is a division of the National Canine Cancer Foundation. For additional information about the National Canine Cancer Foundation, please visit www.wearethecure.org
