Mary Ann Francis

My beloved and beautiful golden retriever Maddie was born in my dining room on May 13, 2001.  Maddie’s mom, Chelsea, was a rescue dog who had lived all her life in a puppy mill in Missouri. I adopted Chelsea in April of 2001.  After Chelsea delivered her puppies in my dining room, I promised her and her puppies that I would take the best care possible of them forever.  After deciding which families would be able to adopt her puppies, I adopted Maddie.  I had a special heart connection with Maddie which endures even today.  What a shock it was to learn in March of 2013 that Maddie had lymphoma.  Maddie was expertly cared for by Dr. Kai Shiu.  She bravely triumphed as she endured several different chemotherapy treatments.  Maddie remained in remission for seven months.  However, once again, the lymphoma returned.  On October 25, 2014, Maddie, peacefully cradled in my arms, crossed the Rainbow Bridge.  I promised Maddie that the things learned during her treatments for lymphoma would be used to help other dogs with lymphoma.  I also promised her I would do all in my power to help find a cure for canine cancer.  Maddie remains in my heart and thoughts to this day.  I love you my beautiful golden girl.  You showed me how to survive and thrive in the midst of adversity.  My promise to you lives on through Czar’s Promise.  Until we meet again…..  Mom