Spencer is a 12-year-old therapy dog with the loveliest hobby. The senior golden retriever loves to cheer on the runners at the Boston Marathon that Spencer attends every year, rain or shine.
In October 2021, Spencer even entered the race shortly after recovering from cancer surgery.
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But while Spencer looks like his old self as he greets runners from his familiar spot along the marathon route, it looks like dog cheer days may be numbered. According to Spencer’s owner, Rich Powers, the dog’s cancer has returned – and this time Spencer received a terminal diagnosis.
“We heard from Doc last night but were unable to post while we tried to process it,” Powers wrote in a heartbreaking Facebook post. “Sadly the tumor is not benign.”
Spencer was diagnosed with a rare type of spleen tumor. But even though such a cancer can run rampant, Spencer’s tumor is caught early, meaning he still has “quality time” with his employer.
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“Removing the tumor and spleen was the best move we could make,” wrote Powers, who was heartbroken but determined to cherish the time Spencer was gone.
“We almost lost this miracle boy over a year ago and are so grateful for the extra wonderful time we received with him,” Powers wrote. “We are doing our best to fight back the tears while we realize that our time with this amazing boy is limited.”
“We constantly remind ourselves that HE STILL HERE will have plenty of time to shed tears later on,” the dog’s owner added. “We love him more than can be measured and will continue to cherish him.”
We know a lot of people have been waiting, and we finally got the Spencer Update for “Update” today. We heard from Doc…
Sent by Abundant powers above Tuesday, December 14, 2021
Power also reported that Spencer is “recovering wonderfully” from his latest surgery and is still feeling “strong.” In fact, the dog is feeling so good that he still wants to run and play frisbee whenever he can. There’s even a possibility that Spencer could compete in next year’s marathon, to be held in April 2022.
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“We will live every day like we used to until he can no longer live,” Powers wrote. This will include doing the things Spencer loves, including walking 2 miles, swimming, frisbee, and visiting his therapy dog.
“Please continue the positive thinking and energy it has kept him here,” wrote Powers, who is also raising money for a golden retriever cancer research fund in Spencer’s honor. “Thanks to everyone who loves and cares for this special puppy.”
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