Mary Ann Francis

Committee Member

Maddie, Mary Ann Francis, Czar's Promise 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

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Our Events

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Woof Pack

Want to help a dog (and family) in need? Here is how you can help with our Woof Pack.

CZAR'S PROMISE

It began as a love story; the attraction, immediate. In 2001, a small white fluffball with an infectious smile that had me at "hello", came bounding full steam ahead and into my arms; and yes, that was all it took.

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VIEW OUR GALLERY

If you're reading this, you are most likely a dog lover! These images are photos of Czar’s Promise fun filled events, as well as photos of our Canine Cancer Crew, beloved canines who have had their own battle with cancer. Shown here is Gobi.

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What Others Are Saying

I have been through the unbearable pain of losing my precious Goldendoodle, Gryffindor to canine cancer and find comfort in knowing 'Czar's Promise' will provide that much-needed education, funding, and support to those in our local community. It honors all those who have lost loved ones to cancer, and those who may be experiencing that hurt and uncertainty. Czar's Promise will be there to let others know you are not alone and provides a rainbow of hope for the future!

— Christine Kober —

Receiving the diagnosis of mast cell for our Pearl was tough. It brought a sense of uncertainty and a lot of questions. Receiving the Woof Pack from Czar's Promise was so unexpected and filled our family with hope and gratitude along with the reassurance that there was a group of people here who knew what our family was experiencing. Pearl has been amazing through this and especially loves the hand-made blanket included in the Pack that provided a cozy place for her during the weeks she spent resting and recovering. We're truly grateful to Czar's Promise for the comfort and care they provided Pearl and our family.

— The Hartwick Family —

When my Sammy was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, I thought my world would end. I was terrified and felt hopeless. The Czar's Promise family understood it all. I had people to talk with who understood my journey like nobody else did. And they helped me process through Sammy's treatment options so I could make the best choices for her and our family.

— Dana Zurbuchen —

When I found a small toe mass on my 3 year old, running partner Rogue’s foot that was confirmed Malignant and Aggressive Digital Melanoma, I was devastated and confused. Although the cancer diagnosis was incomprehensible, the excellent care, counsel and treatment we received from Dr. Shiu, Dr. Singh, and the entire care team gave us more than we expected...no more cancer! I am so happy that we have our very own refreshingly local support group, Czar’ Promise to continue awareness, education, and promote healthy lifestyles for people and their pets who have been touched by cancer. Thank you for what you're doing.

— Dr. Laura Oxley —

Brady and I were fortunate to have the BEST veterinary oncology team in our own back yard. Through our terrible journey that was Osteosarcoma, Brady and I made life long friends, and I am blessed to be part of an organization that is so personal and important to me and doing remarkable work. Brady touched so many lives all over the world and was an inspiration to all that knew him. To Dr. Shiu, his staff, Beth Viney and everyone at Czar's Promise, thank you! I love you all!

— Melanie Powers —