It is no secret dogs make people's lives better, but for some people, dogs make all the difference, especially for those dealing with physical disabilities or cancer.
One of those dogs is Champ, a disabled 6-month-old Chihuahua puppy that is bringing joy to a Mesa man who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
"His front paws are missing, so I said we're not getting rid of him because I don't want anybody to hurt him," said Pamela Andersen, whose husband, Andrew Kuzyk, has brain cancer. "He had surgery November 1, but they couldn’t get it all because it’s wrapped around his memory."
A few weeks ago, Andersen and Kuzyk discovered that chemo and radiation have stopped working.
“Sometimes, cancer can actually calm you down, but this dog, he just brings this peace and serenity," said Kuzyk.
Champ, they say, brings happiness to everyone in his path.
"If the nurses know that we're coming, they gather in the hallway and wait for Champ," said Kuzyk.
Currently, Andersen and Kuzyk are raising money to get Champ a wheelchair.
"His back is bowing so bad. I don’t want him to stay that way or get broken. We’re very careful with him," said Andersen.
The wheelchair is going to cost about $600, and so far, they have raised about half of what they need. For Champ and his owner, a positive outlook is all they really need.
"I don't know what the future holds, but I know the Lord will be with me during it, so I'm not afraid," said Kuzyk.
If interested in helping to get Champ's wheelchair, contact Kuzyk at 480-251-6578.
