While undergoing treatment for osteosarcoma, Izzy Martin declared she wanted a puppy. She was pretty set on it. Some of Izzy’s best days in treatment were days when Espen, a therapy dog, would come visit. Espen would lay at the foot of Izzy’s bed and she would just pet him and smile. Joy would radiate from her, and those were the moments she was truly at peace.

Izzy’s parents weren’t planning on adding a third dog to their household of six humans, but it was clear they had no real choice. Izzy was going to get a puppy.

Blu is Izzy’s dog and best friend. He knows when she is upset and immediately tends to her with puppy kisses. He curls up next to her and just adores her. It has been a challenge for Izzy to train Blu while she is still in physical therapy and working to gain strength and stability on two legs. She is motivated by her goal of taking Blu on walks and to her favorite place, the beach.

Izzy’s hope is that one day, no child will have to heal from what she has gone through. She has started the #TeamIzzy Osteosarcoma Science Fund at the OSI to help co-fund breakthrough clinical trials and research studies in osteosarcoma.

To contribute to the #TeamIzzy Osteosarcoma Science Fund at the OSI, please click here.