Sisters Crusade Against Canine Cancer

Sampson, a Labrador-shepherd mix, was a gift from a neighbor whose dog had delivered 11 puppies. To Courtney and Leah Frost of Greensboro, NC, the dog became a beloved companion and family member. He even acted like a big brother, guarding them in their strollers. Courtney and Leah with Jake Despite severe hip problems that required hip replacement surgery at a year and a half of age, Sampson led a happy life until diagnosed with cancer at age 13 about three years ago. The Frosts sought out the best cancer care possible, but eventually had to say goodbye. Courtney was 11 when Sampson died, and that year instead of birthday presents, she asked friends for donations to Sampson. Leah Frost soon followed in her big sister's footsteps, and the two became crusaders against canine cancer. They donate their birthday "gifts" to Morris Animal Foundation's Canine Cancer Campaign, which is working to cure this disease in the next 10 to 20 years. Sampson, the dog that inspired the girls. "I don't want other people and animals to go through what we did," Courtney says. "I want our new dog, Jake, and other dogs to be healthy and not suffer from cancer," Leah says. Now when birthday time rolls around, Courtney and Leah send a special donation form with their party invites. The best part of their birthdays is tallying up the donations and sending the gift to MAF. Next, the sisters plan to distribute MAF posters to their school and veterinarian's office to help educate others about the organization.