PAY IT FORWARD

I think we all understand what it means … this is our pay it forward story we’d like to share. And if you ask me – this family is the definition of kindness, strength and love.
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Our oncologist Dr. Suzanne Rau first met Beckham, a 7 year old Boxer, when he was diagnosed with lymphoma in April 2013. His family included his loving parents, Julie and Karl, who actually originally met each other as a result of Beckham. He also had a sister, Brooklynn, a French bull dog who was the clear boss of the household.

Beckham’s owners elected to treat his lymphoma with chemotherapy, and he was able to go into remission for a period of time. He was even able to participate in Julie and Karl’s wedding in July, a dream they were worried would not come true when they initially learned of his diagnosis in April. Unfortunately, though, his lymphoma eventually returned and became resistant to treatment. Beckham lost his fight with cancer in January 2014.

Since Beckham’s passing, Julie and Karl have made the commitment to honor his memory and continue the fight against canine cancer by paying it forward. They have graciously offered to pay for a chemotherapy treatment for a dog at Metropolitan that is currently battling cancer, as they understand firsthand the emotional and financial strains that are placed on a family. Recently, Julie and Karl were able to help Koda, a 2 year old Labrador mix with lymphoma, and his family, pay for one of his treatments. Koda’s lymphoma is currently responding well to therapy and he has been able to return to his favorite activities.

Julie and Karl also volunteer their time with the Philadelphia Chapter of the National Canine Cancer Foundation (NCCF). They recently helped raise $40,000 through the organization’s most recent Bark and Bowl fundraiser. We are very grateful for this family’s dedication and efforts in fighting canine cancer, and feel fortunate to know them. We will continue to support the NCCF along with Julie and Karl in any way we can.