White Dog and Quinn had the honor of playing host to Murphy and the rest of his famous family, Hudson and Luke Robinson, when they passed through Albuquerque on their way to promoting Comparative Oncology to a vet group on the West coast last year. Later, we spent time with them again at the inaugural 2MillionDog PuppyUp! Walk in Fort Collins. The rest of the WDA wasn't with us yet, but they have quickly become one with our family views on cancer, canine cancer, and stopping the monster.Murphy, a Great Pyrenees who accompanied Luke on his 2000 mile walk to raise awareness about cancer after his furbrother Malcom's death, himself became a victim of the scourge. Over these past months Murphy has battled like a true warrior and his family has been unwavering in their commitment to him. Just last week he had an eye removed to stop the spread.
Today his Papi, Luke, announced that this weekend is Murphy's last dance and asked for suggestions on what song would be most appropriate. He spent last week taking Murphy and Hudson camping to be alone and in nature; he has served all of Murphy's favorite foods and treats; he has spent hours just sitting in the dark holding his boy.
Murphy has let Luke know the fight is over; the warrior has no more to give. We know when the weekend is over and it is time, Murphy will be surrounded with love and calm. He will know dignity. And his legacy will be an legion of warriors mad as hell that cancer has claimed one of our own and who are more determined than ever to defeat that beast.
The White Dog Army will not let Murphy's crossing be mired in sorrow. Our friend wasn't that kind of pup. Instead we will celebrate all that he gave and shared and be joyful knowing that he is now painfree and healthy on the other side of the Bridge. And we will march with stronger purpose and carry forward the message: Cancer.Touches.Everyone. We all must work together to find a cure.
Be at peace, Murphy. Know you live on...(and forgive a few tears).