this foundation exists because of one good boy.

"There is nothing truer in this world than the love of a good dog."

— Mira Grant

Deuce was the light of my life, best friend and soul dog for 16.5 years. He'd been by my side since he and his family were rescued from the streets of Houston, TX back in 2007. He taught me the invaluable lessons of unconditional love, loyalty, and honesty. His unwavering presence taught me the importance of perseverance and accountability, as he stood by me through every challenge and triumph. Deuce's zest for life, his infectious spirit, and his unyielding strength inspired not only me but countless others around the world to embrace each day with gratitude and live life to the fullest. His spiciness made the world go 'round.

The first cancer.

Deuce had cancer twice in his lifetime. The first time was soft-tissue sarcoma that was only diagnosed because I went through 5 veterinarians to finally get someone to listen to me. Thankfully I found Dr. Storm at Modern Animal WeHo (now at Manhattan Beach) who listened to my concerns. He was diagnosed two days later. The stars aligned for my good boy, he was diagnosed on a Wednesday, had a surgical consult on Thursday, underwent life-saving surgery Friday and was home with me on Saturday. I'm so incredibly thankful to everyone involved in helping save my sweet potato's life, it got me nearly 3 more happy years with him.

The second cancer.

The second time I heard the words "he has cancer" was in November 2023. He was 16 at the time and I knew what that meant. What's particularly cruel about this diagnosis is that this cancer — massive hepatocellular carcinoma, is completely treatable with surgery. I had to make the decision to not put him through the surgery because of his age and his scary issues with anesthesia. I decided on palliative care, to keep him as happy and comfortable as possible until he told me he was ready to rest.

Alongside his incredible doctors, Dr. Storm and Dr. Dunn of Modern Animal Manhattan Beach, I tried several different regimens and liver support methods until we found what worked best for him — mushroom concoctions, CBD, liver support concoctions, homeopathic remedies, and good old fashioned love. What he could tolerate changed often and we were always ready to adjust quickly to make sure he wasn't in any pain or discomfort.

The last day.

We took long walks, went out whenever he decided he wanted to stroll the neighborhood, I made him all of the treats he wanted, he got the foods I normally wouldn't let him have, he got absolutely every second of my attention, every single day, until March 30th, 2024 when he woke up and told me it was time. It's really strange to feel such immense gratitude in parallel to such profound grief, but I'm so incredibly thankful I got the chance to say goodbye and tell him how much I love him.

His last day was full of laughter, love, friendship, support and gratitude. Some of his favorite dog friends came to say goodbye, which made my heart so full. He was surrounded by people who loved him, and I am so grateful for that.

Though it was the worst day of my life, I got to see him enjoy scarfing down a Chick-fil-A kids meal with nuggets and fries, a chocolate milkshake, a Big Mac, and a donut. He was stoked. I'm so grateful to be his mom and to continue spreading his love around.

In March 2024, I had to say goodbye to my best friend, but his legacy of love and inspiration lives on. Promising to keep his memory alive, I established the Good Boy Foundation as a testament to his enduring spirit and as my love letter to him. I love you with all my heart, sweet potato.