Tank, an American Staffordshire Terrier, has a maxillary chondrosarcoma under his right eye. With the help of Paws 4 A Cure, Tank will receive the surgery and follow-up oncology care that he needs.
Paws 4 A Cure is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to pet owners who can’t afford veterinary care. After reaching out to about 15 organizations, Tank’s mom, Renee DiSipio, found the Massachusetts-based organization, however, she still may need help.
“The onset of Tank’s Illness was noticed by a bump under and to the right of his eye,” said DiSipio. “After watching it for a little while, it just did not go away, so we contacted our regular veterinarian. They did a biopsy of the bump, and that dreaded day we were informed that the bump was in fact cancerous.
“Since being diagnosed, Tank has been through many consultations to oncology, surgeons and radiologists to plan the best treatment for him,” DiSipio continued. “Tank has also had several biopsies and CT scans done. To Give Tank the best quality of life, Tank needs surgery to remove the chondrosarcoma and then radiation to treat any cancer cells that have been missed during surgery in order to kick cancer.”
DiSipio adopted Tank eight years ago at an adoption event for EASEL Animal Rescue League of New Jersey. Just attending the event and not actually looking to adopt, DiSipio fell in love with Tank as soon as she saw him.
“Tank was literally scared of everything, especially passing cars,” said DiSipio. “He hid under the volunteers’ legs. Our life was forever changed for the better. Tank has changed the minds of many who stereotyped his breed after meeting him and seeing his loving demeanor. Tank means everything to us. He is our world.”
DiSipio and the 11-year-old Tank have been awarded a grant from Paws 4 A Cure, but due to expenses being very high, Paws 4 A Cure and DiSipio are both asking for donations. To contribute to Tank’s medical needs, make a tax-deductible donation to Paws 4 A Cure by going to Paws4acure.org or by pressing donate on Tank’s fundraising page at www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/pawsrecipients/tankd.
“Every dollar makes a difference,” said DiSipio. “Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts. I am only trying to raise $500, but any more to help another dog or cat would be great.
“I feel like some of the foundations don’t have enough people donating to them and that’s partly because people don’t know about them,” said DiSipio. I had to contact about 15 organizations because, after you put in your applications, they all have different requirements. Some of them couldn’t help because they didn’t have enough funds. I want to raise awareness of these types of organizations so that they can continue to help animals.”
