Dogs lauded as healers at Cary Bark for Life

As Georgianne Frankel lay in her hospital bed dying of cancer, 7-year-old yellow Labrador retriever Jake provided comfort, love and even a reason to continue fighting.

Shortly after the Cary woman passed away last month, friends and family heard about the series of American Cancer Society's Bark For Life events taking place across the suburbs and decided to join in the milelong walk Saturday morning at Lions Park in Cary.

"Jake kept Georgie around a little longer," Jake's new owner, Lynn Storm, said. "We're walking as a way to keep her memory alive."

More than 30 dogs and about 45 humans, many with similar stories, participated in the first-ever Bark for Life of McHenry to raise money for the cancer society while honoring the furry caregivers.

"Research shows people respond better to chemotherapy when they have a dog at home," said Kerry Nelson, income development manager for the Fox Valley region of the American Cancer Society. "The benefits are endless."

Nelson helped organize the fundraiser in just two months after a new staff member described the success of similar events on the East Cost. She said an early count showed the Cary site raised at least $5,000. She plans on holding the event again next year.

Finishing the walk first was Heidi, a 2-year-old German shepherd/husky mix. Owner Kurt Funderburg of Crystal Lake brought his sons to honor his wife, a cancer survivor.

"Heidi dictated the pace today," said Funderburg as sons Daniel and Benjamin nodded. "We had no choice in the matter."

This month, Bark for Life events have been held in suburbs including Libertyville and Arlington Heights. The sixth and final suburban Bark For Life is Saturday, Aug. 29, at the Sugar Grove Sports Complex. For details, go to barkforlifefoxvalley.com.