Heroes of Hope

~ Tails Around the Ranch

Over the weekend I had mom take me to Lutheran’s 2017 Heroes of Hope Run/Walk event to help celebrate National Cancer Survivors Day. Sam here. This was our 3rd time pawticipating in this event (you can read about our previous races here and here). And just like always, we signed up for the 1 mile Fun Walk, but since it was such a gorgeous day and I’m in such good shape, we decided to do the 5K course instead. People of all ages trotted along side my lean physique and we all were cheered by race spectators along the tree-lined hospital campus and surrounding neighborhood. I really wanted to stop and have some of them pet me but mom said we shouldn’t dally. Sheesh, she’s such a buzz kill. I mean, come on woman…don’t you know I’m a real lady-killer? You know I always attract a group of fans at these events and this year was no exception. I even got to meet Miss Colorado, Shannon Patilla! Don’t we make a great-looking couple? Miss Shannon was really sweet and gave me the best ear rubs. S.W.O.O.N. She’s getting ready to graduate with a master’s degree in healthcare administration soon and is ready to take on the world after almost a year of attending events like this one. We wished her loads of success and happiness and thanked her for supporting cancer survivors.

Who knew we’d both look so pawsome in purple?
Let’s go racers!

This was the 10th anniversary of the event which celebrates courage, resilience and strength, just some of the characteristics that describe the over 14 million cancer survivors across America. Not only do these words describe those who have won their fight against cancer, but also those who fought courageously and with dignity. It was incredible to see 20, 25, and even 30 year survivors being recognized. A 10K, 5K, 1 mile Fun Walk and the kids walk make for a fun experience and although we didn’t hear what the final total figure raised was, we expect the proceeds will provide plenty of support at the Cancer Centers of Colorado at Lutheran Medical Center and will help inspire those who are recently diagnosed, support the families who have lost their loved ones to cancer and be a Hero of Hope in our local community.

It was such an honor to be a part of the pet therapy team pawticipating with the nearly 500 other race contestants and a great way to celebrate a Sunday morning for such a very worthy cause.
Live, love, bark! ❤︎

51 thoughts on “Heroes of Hope”

    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      😍

      Reply
  2. Sand Spring Chesapeakes – Cambria, WI – My husband and I have six "furry" children Gambler, Glory, Guilty, Slammer, Gertie and one cat Bones and two furangel's Norman and Nellie. We breed Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. We are both avid hunters. We also enjoy competing with our dogs in hunt tests and field trials. That is where you can find us during the trial months which are April-September. When were not at a trial we are busy training our dogs. We go snow goose hunting in Canada each year and do all the hunting that Wisconsin offers.
    Sand Spring Chesapeakes says:

    What a fabulous Sunday indeed.

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      We so love good causes and good weather. 😉

      Reply
  3. My Golden Life – Upstate South Carolina – I love animals, especially dogs. I enjoy US history, and reading biographies of our former presidents and other historical figures. I love the music of the '60s and '70s since I was growing up in those decades. I love the Beatles and Andy Williams equally.
    My Golden Life says:

    On behalf of both of my parents (breast and lung cancer victims), many, many thanks to all of you who walked for this cause! Cancer is a horrible disease in any form. I’d like to see it eradicated in my lifetime – right now, as Jodi said – and anything we can do to support the science behind that goal is okay with me!

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      So sorry you lost both your parents to such a hideous disease. Can’t even begin to fathom. With events like this, hopefully we’ll all live to see it eradicated in humans and our pets. ❤︎

      Reply
      1. My Golden Life – Upstate South Carolina – I love animals, especially dogs. I enjoy US history, and reading biographies of our former presidents and other historical figures. I love the music of the '60s and '70s since I was growing up in those decades. I love the Beatles and Andy Williams equally.
        My Golden Life says:

        Not just my parents, either. Both grandfathers, two aunts, my godfather, and a cousin; not to mention a few childhood friends. So, yes, hopefully we’ll live to see it eradicated. In ALL species.

        Reply
        1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
          Tails Around the Ranch says:

          Hope springs eternal especially this case. Stay well. 😍

          Reply
          1. My Golden Life – Upstate South Carolina – I love animals, especially dogs. I enjoy US history, and reading biographies of our former presidents and other historical figures. I love the music of the '60s and '70s since I was growing up in those decades. I love the Beatles and Andy Williams equally.
            My Golden Life says:

            You too my friend!!!!

            Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      It’s easy when you have a good looking and nice person on the end of your paw. 😇

      Reply
  5. tippysmom2 – I adopted a puppy in 2013 and it has been an adventure ever since. My Facebook friends love her stories, so thought I would share with others as well.
    tippysmom2 says:

    What a great way to spend a lovely Sunday! You did look great with Ms. Colorado. Cancer is a horrible disease. I do a lot of volunteer work for the American Cancer Society. Our local Relay For Life event is Friday! There, we will also celebrate those is our community who are fighting cancer and remember those who have lost their fight.

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Kudos to you for your advocacy with ACS. They do amazing work. Have fun at your relay event!

      Reply
      1. tippysmom2 – I adopted a puppy in 2013 and it has been an adventure ever since. My Facebook friends love her stories, so thought I would share with others as well.
        tippysmom2 says:

        Thank you! Tippy my get to stop by for a visit. If she does, I’ll try to take some pictures and post about it.

        Reply
        1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
          Tails Around the Ranch says:

          Would love to see some pics and a post!

          Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks. It’s a great cause.

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Ohhhh yeeeeaaaahhhh.

      Reply

  9. I know the ladies were loving watching you strut your stuff! My 28-year-old niece is currently battling colon cancer. Her sister is training to run the NYC marathon this fall in her honor. I will be posting a blog about it in hopes to help her raise some money to get there. #CancerSucks

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Oh no…so very sorry to hear this news. Sending oodles of poodles healing energy for your niece.

      Reply

  10. Yay for taking that walk to celebrate victories and aid those still fighting.

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      So many inspiring survivors. It made our heart swell to see them. Such great stories.

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      I know…how lucky was THAT?

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      She gives the best ear rubs!

      Reply

  13. Look at you and Miss Colorado, Sam. I’m guessing you’re the most dazzling accessory she’s ever had. And about your mom and her need for speed during the 5K: She probably had visions of herself on the winner’s podium getting her gold medal. Sometimes we just have to humor the humans. 😉 Congrats to you and your mom for all the support you both give to the medical center and its programs!

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Gold medal indeed. Mom has a bad bone spur thee days and was just hoping to limp across the finish line! Then I realized we do a 5K twice a day on our daily walks. But since I have twice as many feet, maybe I should think of it as double the distance? 🙂 Ms. Shannon was a real sweetie. We are very lucky to find folks like her crossing our paths.

      Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks, us athletes gotta have a nice posse to stay hip and phat. And you’re right…the big c is horrid!
      Your fur-iend,
      Sam🐾

      Reply

  15. Yay Sam! Glad to hear you participated in such a great charity event! You look very happy and handsome with Miss Shannon and your pet therapy pals! <3

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thank you! It’s always fun to see tons of people. You never know where an ear rub or treat may find you! 😉

      Reply
  17. Kismet – New River, Arizona. – I'm a 16 year old Indian Ringneck parrot curmudgeon in New River, Arizona in the wild west country. If you're a sunflower seed, you're dinner.
    Kismet says:

    This event is counter-productive. I believe that exercise causes cancer.

    Reply
  18. mommakatandherbearcat – Cats: Expect the Unexpected. We dare you to challenge everything you think you know about cats and what cats are capable of adding to our lives!
    mommakatandherbearcat says:

    Sounds like you had a wonderful time – for a wonderful cause. Every bit counts!

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      We live in the hope that even the smallest moments matter to someone else.

      Reply
      1. mommakatandherbearcat – Cats: Expect the Unexpected. We dare you to challenge everything you think you know about cats and what cats are capable of adding to our lives!
        mommakatandherbearcat says:

        If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that even the smallest kindnesses can be the difference in someone else’s life … most of the time, we never know our impact on those around us. You, Sam and Elsa frequently make me laugh and brighten my day – yet I’ve never properly thanked you. THANK YOU!

        Reply
        1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
          Tails Around the Ranch says:

          Blush, blush. I’m thrilled to hear our silly drivel entertains you. Mike drop. Guess our job is done. 😍

          Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Absolutely! Making life better than trying to eradicate it seems so intuitive. I wonder why some never see it that way?

      Reply
  20. CarolMaeWY – WY – "We are the Change We Seek" ~ Pres. Barack Obama "The most important political office in America is that of the private citizen." ~ Judge Louis D. Brandeis
    CarolMaeWY says:

    Sam, you and Miss Colorado do complement each other. Good for you going 5k with your Mama, and good for Mama too. Our Mama used to do that but can’t anymore with the bad knees. We’re lucky we can just run without her.

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Thanks! I semi-sprinted, the mum walked. It’s easy on the knees and you actually can enjoy the sights. Like beautiful people dressed in purple. 😉
      Your fur-iend,
      Sam🐾

      Reply
  23. edgar62 – Semi-retired in South Australia. Interests are Music (Andre Rieu, Anna Netrebko) Reading (SciFi / Crime) and History Movies: The Day After Tomorrow, Casablanca, The Man Who Would be King Community: Secretary Support group, Royal Flying Doctor Service.
    edgar62 says:

    Well done and such a great day raising funds for a great cause. We will be running the Presbyterian Ladies Brunch on the 17th to raise funds for the local hospital Cancer Support. My Favourite Day with an abundance of Scones. Walking is something different, but for some reason I have never been able to reconcile the words fun and run. Must be me… Oh and yes, you and Miss Colorado go well together in purple.

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      Like you, fun and run are completely opposite concepts. I’ve never seen a smiling runner. Kudos to you on your cancer support efforts. Have a scone for us!

      Reply
  24. easyweimaraner – brittany – Weimaraner /Braque de Weimar, born in 2009, male & fabulous From: Britanny / France Likes: Plushtoy-Shredding, Spikebones,long distance Walks, everyday a Gift, Chicken, Shoes, Underwear, my squeekie Pig & my whole Life Dislikes: Water, Cats, Beaf, Cats, cleaning my Ears, Cats, the Vet, Cats, Snow & CATS! Profession: Student of psychological War-technics & Terrorism, after my Masterdegree i become to rule the world or maybe to be the owner of toys r us. actually i'm not sure... Status: Single Pets: Hell, NO! i prefer a petfree home. but owner of two slaves for my comfy Misc.: Greencardowner for Masterbed, Master of Beggin, Prince of Thiefs We decided to leave Easy's datas as they were... although we lost him in november 2016, he is still with us.... and his little brothers Phenny and Nelly promised to write on not as Easy the weim, but as easy Weimaraner... About us: Mr. Phoenix, born 9/9/2016 a virgo and always clever&smart...Neilson, born 7/28/2017 a leo who thinks he is clever&smart...
    easyweimaraner says:

    I’m glad you were there and a lot of people came to support the survivors of the evil big c. they deserve our support in any way, that’s such a hard battle and to win makes you to a hero… absolutely. the bff of the mama celebrated too…. with a trip to her beloved place on the beach… she is grateful that she can see it again and again now …and we hope for many many years…

    Reply
    1. Tails Around the Ranch – Denver, CO – The inspiration behind this blog was one knuckleheaded Standard Poodle named Sam but is now inspired by a House Pony-Wilson. I'm Monika, the upright. Living in the Denver metro area, we post about dogs, rescue and nature. So grab your favorite beverage and be prepared to howl along with our adventures. And don't forget to bark your 'pup-tacular' comment; we'd love to hear from you.
      Tails Around the Ranch says:

      A very inspiring event to see so many who have conquered the big c. We’re happy your mama’s friend is able to visit her special place. 😍

      Reply

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