Here is a sampling of the comments we have received about Grizz's Story. We will try to post as many as we can. They are coming in everyday...Drop us an email

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From: Peg
Jul 29, 2005	10:36 AM

A heartwarming story  that made me laugh, cry and feel like Grizz was part of my family. The strength of Grizz's courage and the love of his family for him came through on every page. A must read book for anyone who has ever been loved by a dog. Peg Moore

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From: Julie

Sent: 5/7/2005 

Subject:  Grizz's Story!

 

OKAY!  I finished reading Grizz’s story!  Wow!  Do you write nicely?  Wow!  You pretty much told it like it was. You really went to bat for Grizz!  And I know you’ll do the same for Sarge!  Your doctors sounded just fantastic!  I am so glad that you had them with you for support!  And thankful too, that you didn’t put G thru radiation.  At a certain point, it just gets to the point where it’s better to let them go.  I am glad you made that promise, it’s the same one we make to our tribe too.  Just let us know, and we will let you go.  Without pain, if possible. 

You know my feelings on pain!  Hope the Queen, is running with the wind today.  Spirit and Sassy were in the Upper yard, and running crazy along the mutual fence line, so Hope had to do her share too.  It was wild Hugs, Julie 

P.S.  The book is just awesome and that dedication is neat!  Thanks so much Jo!  I really appreciate it!  The book was worth waiting for!

 

***********************************************************

From: Mike

Sent: 4/25/2005 

Subject: Grizz's Story

 

Good evening, Jo.  Well, my broken leg and I sat down today and read "Grizz's Story".  I figured a tissue wouldn't be enough so I had a paper towel ready - good thing, too!  What a wonderful story - I truly enjoyed it.  Now I know this is just my imagination, but when I read about your making his pawprint I turned to it at the front of the book and touched it - just for a moment it seemed like I was touching a real paw, not a piece of paer...

 

I was looking through our specialty show catalog from 2004 (Rocky Mtn SHC) and found an anonymous quote that perhaps you haven't seen yet:

 

" A life well-lived doesn't end any more than music ends...

It echoes through time with whispers of beauty and grace...

If we listen we can hear the encore with our hearts

For the song plays on, just as love lives on."

 

Sobaka and Christie and I send our best wishes for you and your family.

 

Mike
Sobaka - Clown, Therapy Dog, Friend
Christy the Beagle
In loving memory of Candy the Beagle, 1989-2004

 

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From: Tonya P

Date: 4/11/2005 

Subject: RE: Grizz's Story

 

Jo, that was the best story that I have ever read about the love that

bonds us to our pups, and our pups to us. Your love for Grizz and his

love for you was evident each step of his journey. As promised, I

cried, but I also laughed and looked up to the sky to check on Grizz

when I finished his book. His spirit definitely shines through when you

read this book!

 

That was a very powerful story. It hit home with me because of Shelby's

condition and because of other pets of mine that have passed on, due to

Cancer. I know that look that they get, letting us know that it's okay,

the time has come. It is hard for humans to accept, but we have to let

them go with dignity and you sure did with Grizz. As I read in another

book, the animals know that they will be fine, it is the humans that

love them that suffer the most.  Grizz was lucky on all accounts to have

you and Barry. You gave him agreat puppy hood, a great family, the

treatment and encouragement that he needed to fight the cancer and

the ability to let go when the time came. Thank you for sharing Grizz

with me. He was a great Siberian, friend, brother, comedian and story teller.

 

He gave you a gift and you are returning it by helping others fight

cancer.  By the way, I hope that Barry is doing well and has won his fight as

well. You two sure had enough on your plate! 

(Each of my girls got a huge hug and an extra piece of cheese after I

finished this book. It is amazing how much I love those balls of fur!)

Thank you!

Hugs and Sibe kisses,  Tonya

 

Shelby (Jo, thanks for your daily words of encouragement, I am fighting

day by day.) and Sheena (Thanks for the beautiful book, mom gave us cheese after she read it! I think Grizz had something to do with that!)

 

(Update**It is with such deep sorrow that I was informed that Shelby lost her battle to cancer shortly after I received this email from Tonya. Our hearts are very heavy but wear your silver harness with pride sweet Shelby and say "hi" to Grizz for us, in the playground of Angels,

with love, Jo)

 

*************************************

From: Rob R

Date: 3/12/2005 

Subject: Grizz's story...

Jo,

  I just finished Part I of Grizz's Story...I am still crying!  All the

while I was reading this book, I must confess, I was thinking about how I

would handle this if it were my favorite dog, Sera.  Ohhhh, the pain!  I

dread that moment! A part of me doesn't want to live to see that moment!

Man...I am not much of a crier...but I cannot stop!  How do you when it is time to help them cross?  How do you move on from the loss?  Sera, is only 6 now, she is healthy, so there is nothing to worry about now....but I cannot help but play out the “what if's” in my head!

  I want to tell you that your (Grizz's) book has taught me a great

deal....I actually feel a connection with your family.  I have learned that

EVERY DAY with our puppies need to be cherished!  Thanks so much for that lesson!  My fear is in my way right now...I have to stop playing the "what if" game.  I pray that the time NEVER comes when that diagnosis comes to one of our dogs, but if it does I will turn to you folks for prayers and guidance.

 Once again, thanks for having the courage to write this book....I feel

like I know him....he holds a special place in my heart and when difficult

obstacles enter my life I will take heart from his example.

 

God Bless,  Rob

 

P.S. I am a little emotional right now, so if I sound like I am "blubbering"

sorry.  Thanks for your family's courage, it is true inspiration!  Your

family is in our thoughts and prayers!

 

**********************************

From:  Lori and Yoda

March 3, 2005 

Subject: book

 

I finally read it and now have a chance to tell you how good it was. How can one describe it, not as a good story because you lost a great friend in the end. But a very well told story. I am glad you found a new friend for Sarge. It truly is the cycle of life. 1 dies and trains in the new one and the cycle keeps going. It sounds like you found a great team to keep Grizz going for as long as he did. Let’s hope they keep coming up with new ways to fight the deadly disease. I am now going to pass the book on to my friends.

 

Thanks for the web site and I will check in on it from time to time

Lori and Yoda

 

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From: Deborah M. H. Hall

 Date: 2/15/2005 

 

AMEN, AMEN!  I have to agree.  I had the same reaction!  I just cried and cried.  I had lost my dad to cancer, he was only 54, last July, and read the book shortly thereafter.  It's an amazing piece of work, and in many ways, helped me to begin to heal from the pain of losing my dad.

 

What a wonderful tribute!

Hugs, Deb

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From: Paulette J

Date: 2/15/2005 5:15:10 PM

 

My copy of Grizz's story came today. Even just opening the envelope

brought tears to my eyes. The outside of the book is so beautiful. I scanned

through the color photos inside. How often do you see color photos in a

paperback? Grizz's soft, charming face was everywhere. The inscription

inside was a tearjerker too. You certainly know how to make someone feel

special. I shouldn't have, but I turned to the end, reading a few lines,

looking at the pictures that no longer had Grizz in them, and I couldn't

hold it back any more. I felt like I knew Grizz personally by this time.

What a wonderful tribute you did. Everyone should buy this book.

I do not get royalties.

Paulette in Maryland

 

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From: Jennifer B

Sent: 2/10/2005 6:44:24 PM

Subject: My review

 

Hi Jo, Barry, Sarge and Kodi,

I wanted to give you my review to add to the website. I sat down the other night and started reading the book and finished it in one sitting. I cried my eyes out sobbing at one point. I'm a very emotional person. I feel like I know all of you personally from reading the book. It was wonderful. I'm so sad that you had to go through it. Your book is a wonderful tribute to your Grizz. My animals are my kids and I love them so deeply. After reading the book I hold them a little closer and give them extra kisses everyday. You opened up my eyes to realize how precious our time on the is earth is with our family and our furkids. Your book is the best dog book I have ever read and I know this is because it was from the heart. Anyone who has animals should read it especially if they have lost one. I'm going to email all my rescue friends to recommend your book. It is a wonderful that all the proceeds go to fighting cancer for the pups. Keep in touch and bless you.

Jennifer Bergen

and the fur babies

Lucy, Winston, Oliver, Sidney, Happy and Dakota

 

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2-2005

Dear Jo and Barry,

 

 I am sorry I didn't get back to you sooner.  I read Grizz's story already.  I

read it in one night!!  It is truly an amazing story, and I think it will

definitely help other pet owners deal with their pet's illnesses.  It is so

difficult to know if the decisions we are making are the right ones

sometimes.  Grizz was so lucky to have you two.  Every dog or cat should be so

lucky! I wish you all the best in your efforts to raise money and support your

charities.  Thank you!

 

Angie B, CVT    Emergency Animal Referral Center     Appleton, WI

2-2005

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From Tamara Lyn

Date: 2/1/2005

Subject: Grizz's story

Hi Jo

I just finished reading Grizz's story.  What an inspiring story of love and courage.  He was a remarkable dog.  I didn't realize he was bi-eyed.  Mybridge baby, Hoodoo, was a bi-eyed beauty too.  They hold a special place in my heart.  (www.humanesocietyyukon.ca/hoodoo.html) And Smokey is the spitting image of my first canine companion, a German Shepherd named Tasha who joined our family in 1979 and left in 1985 at 13 years old.  She came with a house my parents purchased as her owners didn't want to move her into town with them.  She was an amazing dog!Thank you for sharing Grizz's story.       Tamara

 

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From:Bonnie and Dave Lundberg.

I was able to READ Grizz's story last nite ! YOU are a wonderful writer & I felt so close to Grizz thru your writings...I think everyone needs to read this book....I am so thankful that your husband was able to get the kidney transplant.  I am NEW to this whole story I had not been following via internet so the book really filled me in...Now I see why Kodi is new in your life. I just gave the book to a friend to read today...Its so very difficult to deal with the dogs as they age the loss is heartbreaking... I had read a saying once why dogs lifes were so much shorter then ours.I felt all your emotion in the book. It is also very cute as told from Grizz's point of view....  Loved it... Grizz is with our Shuksan & Skagit lighting up that evening sky for us....Bonz Monticello, MN

 

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From: Kathy

Date: 1/10/2005

Subject: Thank you!

 

Hi Jo,

 I forgot the MaPaw books Friday and read Grizz's story - it touched me

deeply.  It's obvious that you wrote it from the heart and captured exactly

what is in mine. Dealing with seniors, I have helped many (too many) go the

the bridge, but it was my honor to know each and everyone of them and be

there for them.  Thank you for Grizz's story, and thank you for everything

you do!

Your friend in Rescue,

Kathy R

MaPaw Siberian Husky Rescue & Referral Service, Inc.

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From: Cindy G            

Sent: 1/4/2005 3:08:44 PM

HI,

I just wanted to let you know that I received you book last week.  What a great job you did.

Thank you again for dedicating it to myself & Dancer.

 

Cindy

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From: Raven

Sent: 1/3/2005 

Subject: Re: Grizz's Story

 

Hey Jo! 

I got the book on Christmas morning, and narrowly managed to remove it from Malkin's jaws before he could "read" it in his own way. LoL But it was funny how he went right for it, even though I also received three other books as gifts. I couldn't wait for the holiday obligations to be over with so I could just curl up with some cats and a cup of tea to read it. I just finished it about an hour ago. My God, Jo, you have such courage to tell this story. I can't tell you how much I admire the strength it took to make this project in his honor. Grizz reminds me so much of my beloved Maine Coon, Oberon, who lost his second battle with lymphoma a year ago...he had that same serene acceptance, courage, tolerance of all the poking and prodding, and determination to enjoy life in spite of the cancer. I've been telling myself that I'm going to write Oberon's story since he crossed over on November 10, 2003...but I don't have the guts to do it yet. I just wind up crying after only writing a mere handful of pages.       Someday. 

Thank you so much for sharing Grizz's story...besides being a beautiful memoir of an extraordinary spirit, it brought me a lot of comfort to know that you also understand the anxiety and heartbreak of helping a furkid through cancer and chemo. This is definitely a book I will treasure.

Hugs to you, Sarge, and Kodi...and purrs from my angel to yours,

Raven, Oberon, Malkin (& the Feline Nine) 

 

*********************2005 entries********************

From: Raven

Sent: 12/8/2004

Subject: Re: Grizz's Story

 

Hey Jo!

My mom just emailed me that she bought me Grizz's Story for Xmas (every year, we buy each other something to benefit a charity, and I had told her about your book and losing the eBay auction, so she thought it would be the perfect gift. I think so too. <g>). Now, she's off checking your web page, and praising Grizz's handsome face. LoL 

Can't wait to read it!

Hugs to you, Kodi n Sarge...

Raven (and my Mom)

 

********************************

Jo,

I just watched your video - it's just wonderful.

As if I'm not crying enough today...

Through your book and now your video, I feel as though I know Grizz. What a fabulous creature!

Yesterday my cousin told me to put together a collage of photos of Bullet and I've been working on that for a few hours today. I'd love to do a slide show like that on my website, I'm going to try to figure out how.

 

With love

Laurie

(Laurie is a friend and fellow writer who lost her sweet furbaby Bullet after a courageous battle too.  Our deepest sympathies....       Jo)

 

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From: Lorna Lou

Sent: 11/21/2004 

Subject: video !

 

Jo, I just watched this video and first of all, it again came to me what a magnificent and beautiful animal Grizz was. Another facet that came through in his life was the abundant love he got. That must be Barry sleeping with his arm around Grizz. He was SO adored! 

Your Sweet Grizz is in His keeping, and waiting, yes, watching over you, too. I think this video is a fitting tribute to a noble soul.

Hugs 'n' love,

Lorna xoxoxo

 

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From: Jim Sheerin

Date: 11/21/2004

Subject: RE:  video !

 

Jo.... that was beautiful... now I have to go hug each of the dogs... Thanks for sharing that. And I hope you don't mind... but I sent your video website to a bunch of friends...

Jim

 

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From: Claire J

11/21/2004 

Subject: video about the Grizz & Friends Fund

 

The tears are just flowing.  It was beautiful.  Brings back memories of my sweet Tommy.  Grizz was a very lucky dog and you all were lucky to have had him.  Love, Claire & Derry

 

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From: Marilyn H

Date: 10/21/2004 3:02:37 PM

Subject:  Grizz’s Story

Jo I finished his book last night and it was truly wonderful :)

Thanks for writing it :)

 

Marilyn and the Hooligans

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Melissa K

10/19/2004 5:05:10 PM

We met at Siberian Husky Nationals in Greenville, S.C.

Hello Barry & Jo!

I wanted to send you a little note to let you know how special it was to meet you both! It was truly the highlight of my trip.  I was telling my husband and some of my friends how special you both are!  I really felt that for the first time since losing my Bosko, that I finally found someone who went through the same things I did.  It's obvious that you loved Grizz the same way I did Bosko.  Part of dealing with my grief over losing my "Bosko Bean" is why I recently got involved with husky rescue.  Bosko was such a kind dog, and I know he would want his mommy to help other huskies find loving homes. I had such a hard time with accepting the cancer... Why my Bosko?  Did I do something wrong?   One day my husband said...  "Honey, God knows the paths our lives are going to take... it's a giant road map
and only he can see it all.  He knew that Bosko was going to have a short life.  That's why he became our puppy.
God knew we would give him the best life that he could possibly have during the short time that he spent on earth.
That's why Bosko chose us......  
(Now Kent says that Blizzard and Jaeger and any other animals that come into our lives have hit the "puppy lottery"....because they will have more love than they would ever know anywhere else.)  I found so much peace in that...    After meeting you guys... I now know that we are not the only "puppy lottery"  home in this world.......Grizz hit the puppy lottery with you as well!  I started the introduction of the book the night I took it back to the hotel.  I couldn't get through the first page without tears streaming down my face.  It's such a personal connection for me.  I look forward to reading it this weekend when I don't have to go anywhere and can have a box of tissues handy.

Thank you so much for being such wonderful, wonderful people.  I really hope that we can meet again one day. Please keep me informed of anyway that I can be of help to the Grizz and Friends Cancer Fund.

Bless you both!   Love, Melissa 
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10-31-2004

I had just ordered your book maybe about a week ago and I just wanted to let you know that it was a beautiful and touching story.  We have two huskies ourselves and one is probaly related to kodi we got from Eva and Jim Coe which is how we heard about your book.  My fiance never ever reads and he picked up your book and read it all in one night and was very touched because he just lost his mother to cancer this past year and he could relate but I just wanted to thank you for sharing your story

 

Sincerely,

Becky Dewing and Dale Benson

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10-24-2004

Hi Jo and Barry,

 

OMG...I just finished Grizz's Story and tears are

still rolling down as I try to type this email! My

heart hurts for all you went thru but is also happy

that Grizz continued to have your undying love and

willingness to continue to do whatever it took to keep

his quality of life at the same level. As I was

reading the book, I kept looking at Mocha, Echo and

Aurora plus Sunni and Marci, 2 sibe fosters as they

were all playing and kept wondering if we would have

the strength to be as strong as y'all if any of them

were in the same situation...I hope we would! I've

given them each a hug and kiss in honor of you, Barry,

Grizz and Sarge. Thank you for keeping the faith in

Grizz and honoring him with the book. I truly hope we

never have to go thru this with any of our fur-kids

but if we do, I will refer to your book for

encouragement.

 

Hugs and kisses,

Kim with Mocha, Echo, Aurora, Sunni and Marci

(Carolina Siberian Husky Rescue-Met at Nationals in Greenville, SC)

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October 17, 2004

Dear Jo & Barry,

 

What a wonderful story of love.  We have shared some of the same with our Siberians & other mutts over the years.  How much they add to our lives --- and what holes they leave in our hearts...

Enjoyed our short visit Thursday at Hilton corral.

Thanks for sharing,

Stu & Joyce Adcock

Campobello SC

********************************************************

From:   Bulson, Cindy 
Sent:   Monday, October 11, 2004 8:15 AM
To:     Helms, Jo
Subject:        Grizz's story

Hi Jo,
I wanted to let you know I read Grizz's story this weekend and it is an absolutely wonderful book. I used a half box of kleenex. Thanks for creating such a inspiring book. I hope a lot of people and buy and read this. I also hope your trip to South Carolina was wonderful.

Hugs,
Cindy

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10-21-2004

Jo,

I finished his book last night and it was truly wonderful :)

Thanks for writing it :)

 

Marilyn and the Hooligans(Sibernet friend)

********************************************************

9-29-2004

Hi Jo,

Settled down this evening to watch a planned tv program.........for some reason the station was off the air...so I picked up Grizz's book.........I had put off attempting to read it knowing most likely it would start the tears flowing..........but I leafed through it thinking I would just look at the pictures.......however one thing led to another and I was drawn into starting to read.......once I got started I could not stop........what a beautiful story and loving tribute to a much loved pet........the tears did not start until I got to page 62.......both for your situation then and mine in the  past .......I think anytime we read of any pets trip to the Bridge it brings back memories of when our own beloved pets made the trip.........I thought I would drop you a line.......Again it was just a beautiful accounting of an obviously beautiful both inside and out Grizz.......Best of luck in the selling of many books.......it is for such a good cause.........

Judy Howard  http://wawamama24.tripod.com/
CRT Volunteer - Ohio http://www.chihuahua-rescue.org/

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9-17-2004

Hi! I finished Grizz's book last night and loved it! (Although I did cry,

which is not always a bad thing.) Thank you for sharing his story with us.

It took alot of courage to do everything you did for him. I will be giving

it to my sister as a gift. She works with a Husky rescue in IN, and she is

also a cancer survivor. She had ovarian cancer about 7 yrs ago. They took

a tumor the size of a softball out of her pelvis, then she had 4 chemo

treatments. But she has been cancer-free since then!

Grizz's story brought back memories of when I took my cat Rum Tum Tugger to the Rainbow Bridge. He was 5 yrs old when he was diagnosed with kidney failure. The vet said it was probably hereditary I felt awful because I didn't even see it coming. I noticed Tugger had

lost weight. He was never a large cat to begin with. By the time the

ultrasound was done, one kidney had failed and the other was almost gone.

The only way I could extend his life was to interveniously give him 100

cc's of Saline every day. That was a nightmare!

He hated the needle, and I was living alone and had no-one to help me give

it to him. He would see me coming with the bag, and the chase was on. I

tried for a week, and each time was harder on both of us. One night, I

gave up, and sat on the couch to cry. He came to me and curled up in my

lap. I asked him if it was time to let him go, and he just purred to me.

I knew he was tired and ready to go. I let Tugger be out of the

carrier so he could look around. He wasn't scared at all! Everything was

new and it seemed he thought it was so cool to look out the windows of the

car. We sat together in the backseat as he took everything in.

We got to the vet's office and they wrapped him in a towel and put him on

my lap. He seemed to really be at peace with it all. I held him close,

petting him and talking to him while he passed over. The most important

thing to me was that my voice was the last thing he heard as he crossed.

I still miss him so much. Sorry I ended up babbling, but it feels good to

talk about him.

Have a great day! Hope to see you again sometime soon!

Hugs, Merri Donald

************************************************

8-5-2004

I completely forgot to email you after I finished reading the book.  I love it!!!  What a great story and a great dog!!!  I saw Eva's picture of Yukon Jack Daniels and I thought of Grizz!!  What a great dog he must have been!!  If he was anything like my Daisy, he was quite a handful as a pup and then grew into a great dog!!  Some of the things Grizz did as a pup Daisy has done too!  Running into the street, being all wet and "drying off" on the bed, messing up the sofa, eating the trash, basically eating anything that looks good!!!

Talk to you later,

Melody Turley

************************************************

September 2004..Card received in the mail

Dear Jo,

  Remember me?  We have e-met several times now.  I wanted you to know that I finally read your book.  I am writing you somewhere over Nevada perhaps and I read your book on the plane..  A wonderful book and not nealy as painful as I anticipated.  Thank you for being here with me.  I feel Grizz nearby as I think he has met my Sasha.  They look so much alike!!  Sasha is here too.  I am sad and comforted at the same time.  Have a wonderful week and hug your puppies from all of us living in Milwaukee.

Janine (Volunteer for Adopt a Husky-WI)

*Note:  Janine had ordered Grizz's Story a month or so prior to this email but had emailed me and said that she wasn't sure how soon she would be able to read it because her loss of Sasha was too fresh in her mind. I emailed back that I knew she would read it when she was ready..=)

*****************************************************

7-21-2004

Hello Jo :)

I'm so sorry that I have not written -- unfortunately, I have had three deaths in the family, in a short span of time.

So you want our thoughts on the book?  Well Grizz's book was of course wonderful! 

Our official review is, "While reading Grizz's Story, there were many rememberences and memories of a time past when Grizz was here with us.  And as one might expect, there were events and thoughts written about which we could not have known.  Grizz's book is a tribute to him and to all who have battled cancer.  It is a story of unselfish love, a sharing of private moments - both happy and of sorrow, and of shining unparelleled courage.  It is a story to be read and remembered."

I hope this honors your work and Grizz, as it should :)

Your furriend,

 

Bailey(Furr-Angels.com)

************************************************************************

6-2004

Jo,

  Thank you so much for donating a copy of your book the Humane Society raffle.  It is such a heartwarming story, I couldn't put it down!! =)

It truly illustrates that both yourself and your husband have very big hearts.  Sharing your story give such hope and inspriation to others.   Thanks again.

Tina Fermanich =)

****************************************************

6-15-2004

Hi Jo,

 I never got back to you!! But I so very much enjoyed your book on Grizz. It was just lovely! I cried and laughed.. and even have read it again. Thanks!  Shelli (Sibernet friend)

(I dedicated her copy to the memory of her beloved Siberians(Tasha, Phang and Honey) at Rainbow Bridge and her Shih Tzu(P.J.) who also crossed the Bridge from cancer.)

*****************************************************

6-11-2004

Jo,

 The books arrived safely Tuesday. I read one that evening. Thank you

 for telling the story in a way that most of us could not. It not only

 brought peace of mind, but reminded me to take the time to "smell the

 flowers" with my pack. I will read it many more times in days to come.

 Ron McEckron, Tundra Spirits Siberian Husky Rescue

************************************************************

6-9-2004

Hello Jo,

Thanks for being so quick in sending me the book, didn't expect you to be so prompt!

I had a day off work yesterday, so settled down in the sunshine(with the dogs, of course!) to read it. What a fantastic book, you have such courage to have written it. I know it says 'don't cry for me', but I sobbed from start to finish! Read the whole thing straight through, I now have a very burned chest and shoulders, LOL!

 

Grizz sounds like an amazing dog, i'm sure he'll always be in your heart.

Be strong, take care of yourselves,

 

Love Karen Hardy and the furbabies xx

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5-11-2004

Jo, I just finished ready "Grizz's Story" and several times I had to stop to blow my nose and wipe away the tears that streamed down my face.  You were right about me reading it because so many things were exactly what I went through with my beloved Tommy.  I too said that if he could not live a quality life I would walk him across the bridge.  He had lymphoma and lived a year with a good life.  He could not tolerate the chemo shots but lived on the chemo pills till his time came.  Be thankful for Barry being there with you.  I had lost my Randall a year before Tommy.  Derry is so sweet but there will never be another Tommy.  You are one strong lady to be able to write a book as wonderful as you did.  I admire you more each day.  I just can't tell you how moved I am at this moment after reading your book.  I will read it again in the future.  You are a special friend.                         Love, Claire & Derry

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5-12-04

Hi Jo,

  Just wanted to let you know that my husband read your book today.  He was in tears.... it touched him deeply.  He did not put the book down once he began to read it.  I will definitely pass the word on about your book.  You are an Angel for writing it.  Trouble will be happy to get a kiss!  He's very affectionate.  Take care.

  love and hugs,

Debbie Kaszimer

"She is your friend, your partner, your defender, your dog.  You are her life, her love, her leader.  She will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of her heart.  You owe it to her to be worthy of such devotion." -Anonymous

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Hi Jo,

5-11-2004

Just wanted to let you know I received Grizz's book today.  It is wonderful..... it's amazing what our beloved furkids inspire us to do through their incredible spirits.  Bless your heart for sharing this story to the world.  Grizz is truly an Angel watching over you. I was in tears reading his story. Trouble is a bi-eye also, like your Grizz.  I've included a picture of him.  Best wishes to you with your wonderful story.

love and hugs,

Debbie Kaszimer ( http://ShebaTheQuadDog.tripod.com )

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 Monday, April 19, 2004 6:44 AM 

GOOD MORNING,
ON SATURDAY, I READ YOUR BOOK, "GRIZZ'S STORY".   EXCELLENT!!!    YOU SHOULD BE VERY PROUD
OF YOURSELF FOR ALL THAT YOU DID FOR GRIZZ,  YOU GAVE HIM THE LOVE AND CARE THAT ALL ANIMALS DESERVE.  TO ME MY ANIMALS ARE MY "KIDS" AND WHEN THEY HURT OR ARE SCARED I FEEL THE SAME WAY, AS I KNOW YOU DID AND STILL DO WITH SARGE AND KODI..  THE BOOK WAS

WONDERFULLY WRITTEN AND HAD MY ATTENTION ALL THE WAY THROUGH, GREAT JOB!! 
FROM SOMEONE WHO HAS LOST A DOG IN THE PAST 2 YEARS LIKE I DID, YOUR STORY REALLY HIT HOME.  THANK YOU FOR WRITING THIS WONDERFUL BOOK.

Deb Marg

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Jo,

Parts of it made me cry and parts made me laugh.

The story of such courage not only from Grizz, but from you and Barry as well.

It must have taken a lot of your strength to write that book.

My Jeni said that she could not put the book down once she started to read it.

My neighbour later read it, she is a cat person but it brought tears to her eyes as well.

She loves my Shadow though.

Love you all,

Jo from England.

 

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4-12-04

Dearest Jo, Barry, Sarge and Baby Kodi!     First of all Happy Easter!  Second, I have read Grizz's Book and am filled with emotion, tears, sadness, joy, memories, and a great love for you and Barry who have been through so much pain, I am with you!  Grizz's writing is with such love and an endearment to you all, his bestest friends Smokey and Rags, whom I adore too! His loss of them both, and his new bestest friend Sarge, two peas in a pod albeit their salt and pepper complimenting each other. No matter what or when Jo and Barry, there will never be another miracle of your Grizz, your HANDSOME GENTLEMAN, his courage, pride, and devotion, cooperation with his medicines and treatments, never complaining, except that one time toward the "end", when you all "knew". When my shepherd Sweets suffered with cancer, she too tried so hard to eliminate, I remember clearly standing outside in the pouring rain with her and an umbrella over us both, not understanding, why why! why Sweets! The purest of Angels, No! She would look up at me with her expressive eyes and say, Mommy, I am trying so hard to do what you expect of me, but it just won't come out! Sweets had cancer on her aorta, the blockage was fierce, nothing could pass. She became toxic, I couldn't let her go! I just couldn't! How you accepted Grizz's fate is far more courageous than I was, you were as one, like me and my daughter Sweets, one entity, we felt what they felt, still do too.

I want to say how much I love you all, how I know you worry about Sarge, how Kodi brings you joy, how you were and are so blessed to have been chosen by Grizz, a once in a lifetime encounter, Grizz changed your lives, taught you so much, gave you so much. How very fortunate you are! How I remember reading on the Prayer Line about Grizz's treatments, how I wrote you then, so long ago, yet only yesterday. I too have learned from Grizz, what a happy boy you are blessed with forever in your hearts and minds.

I wanted to tell you that your Smokey made his journey to Rainbow Bridge on my birthday, I will never forget your Smokey's Day, and Grizz's Day is on my mother's birthday, I always thought we had a special spiritual connection, now am sure of it.

"Your Beautiful Smokey, Your Loving Rags, Your Hero Grizz."..................       My heart to you for your tragic losses, none of your sweethearts will ever be replaced, each one unique in their own special way.

Much love to you and a greater kinship to come for us both as we travel down our paths with our heads held high for what gifts have been bestowed upon us! How lucky we are to have found true bliss and deep pure love with our beloveds who have changed our lives for the better for eternity until we meet with them again!

 I close with tears and longing for us all, love always,    Sid

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Sent: 4/13/2004 10:07:23 AM

4-12-2004

Subject: Re: Grizz's Story

 

Jo-

 

Your book was AWESOME.  I'm so glad I bought it.  Since then I have a new female Siberian Husky thats all white and her name is Shelby.  She was with two other dogs and it was just too much to handle along with the kids.  She is already spoiled and Star gets along with her, even though she always thinks she's the boss, you know what I mean.  So, I'm glad we could give her a new home.  I loved the book, it was such an accomplishment for you and such a wonderful idea.  Take care.

 

Diane Halverson

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From:

THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON, D.C.
 
 March 31, 2004
 
 Mrs. Jo Helms
 Jo Helms Publishing
 824 South Schaefer Street Appleton, Wisconsin 54915-3601
 
 Dear Mrs. Helms,
 
 Thank you and your husband for your kind words of sympathy about the loss of our dog Spot. She was a sweet and loyal companion and we will miss her, but the memory of her amusing antics will always bring us smiles.
 
 Thank you also for your book, Grizz's Story: A Greater Courage. I admire your efforts to help fund animal cancer research and treatment.
 
 President Bush joins me in sending our appreciation and best wishes.
 
 Sincerely,
 
~~~~ (Laura Bush's signature has been encrypted for protection by the web mistress) 

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Letter received Feb. 18, 2004 

Jo,

  My daughter purchased your book, Grizz's Story, for me.  I can not tell you how I really enjoyed your book.  I laughed and I cried reading it.  My son's dog crossed Rainbow Bridge in April of last year.  She was a minature sheltie.  Her problem was she had a tumor on her bladder.  Her symptoms were exactly like Grizz. Queenie had ultrasound and was fed turkey breast with gravy.  We all know that Queenie is in dog heaven.  She sure was an angel. We have a 13 y/o toy poodle which is our baby.  She has congestive heart failure but we are still enjoying her.  Buffy is the boss in our home. Thanks for the wonderful book.  I'm going to read it again.

Sincerely,  Eileen Schlender, Clintonville, WI

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JO, GOOD MORNING! I FINISHED THE BOOK LATE LAST NIGHT.I COULD'T PUT IT DOWN. IT WAS EMOTIONAL FOR ME TO READ, BUT I DID FINISH IT. I LOVED IT, AND YOUR WORDS AND FEELINGS WERE TRUE. I WILL PASS IT ON TO OTHERS TO READ AND ENJOY . I CRIED WHILE READING IT, BUT I CRY EASILY AS MY FAMILY SAYS. I GOT DOWN AND PLAYED WITH OUR "SHADOW", AND LOVED AND KISSED ON HIM. SOME OF THE PICTURES IN BOOK ,LOOK LIKE OUR "SHADOW". HE TALKS TO US LIKE GRIZZ DID TO YOU. HOW IS KODI AND SARGE? YOUR BOOK WILL BE A BLESSING TO OTHERS. I'M GOING TO ASK OUR VET,IF I CAN PUT UP ORDER FORMS FOR THE BOOK THERE? IF YOU DON'T MIND. THANK YOU AGAIN FOR A HELPFUL AND GREAT STORY. I LOVE THE "REMEMBER ME" ALSO. IF YOU CAN SEND ME SOME ORDER FORMS FOR THE BOOK I'D LOVE TO PASS THEM OUT. HAVE A GREAT DAY! GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

LOVE, KATRINA AND FAMILY

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Hi Jo,

The box of books was waiting for me yesterday evening when I got home from seeing my oncologist. I read the first chapter before I even took off my coat. After I tended to Hope, I sat down and read the rest of the book. It was amazing...you did such a wonderful job. Of course, I cried buckets - both happy tear and sad tears.

There were several coincidences which made Grizz's story have an even greater impact. My MacKenzie Shepherd, Baillie's maternal great aunt was named Bear - so named as a puppy because her human grandfather said she looked like a bear cub. Both Baillie and her great aunt Bear were mostly black. When Baillie was about six months old, Bear's daughter came to live with us. Her name was Kodi - short for Kodiak!

Very shortly before Baillie crossed the bridge, I started dreaming about Bear.(Bear had crossed the bridge several years before.) She would come to my backdoor and wait. Later, after Baillie crossed the bridge, I knew why Bear had come to my dreams. She was letting me know that she would be there to take care of Baillie and that everything would be ok...much like your circle of light.

I was so completely devastated when I lost Baillie - she was my puppy - I chose her - I drove 8 hours to a breeder in SW Virginia to pick her out at four weeks and then drove back when she was old enough to come home. Like your Grizz, Baillie was one of a kind. Her death was very sudden - ruptured hemangiosarcoma. I was totally lost until Hope came to me. I know Baillie will always be with me. Anyway, like Grizz, I also have soft tissue sarcoma. I was diagnosed in November of 2001. My sarcoma is very rare - leiomyosarcoma. It attacks the smooth muscle and soft tissue of the digestive system. I have had several surgeries and have bits and pieces of just about everything removed. I have been through lots of different chemos and am just starting again. And as if that weren't bad enough...my brother was diagnosed with testicular cancer this past summer. Thankfully, it looks like he is going to be fine. I try never to get discouraged and now after reading Grizz's story, I have more courage than ever. Have you ever thought about bringing the book to a pediatric oncology treatment center?  I was so happy to read that your husband had gotten his transplant. I can hardly imagine how hard it must have been for you to have you husband so ill at the same time as Grizz. You must be a very strong woman.

So this is so long, but I wanted you to know how much Grizz's Story meant to me.

Thank you for writing Grizz's Story. I am sure you are going to help a lot of people and their pets.

Love from Susan Taranto and Hope   www.blanketofhope.com

(Sadly Susan lost her battle to cancer in July of 2004.  I have lost a very special and dear friend...but I know I will see her again one day. Watch over us Susan please. I thank you for your precious friendship.  Until we meet again sweet friend......please watch over Grizz too..

Love, Jo)

 

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Hi Jo,

Sorry I haven't replied to you sooner but I was out of town for a few days. I did have a chance to read the book. I think it was the most touching book I've ever read. We have a Standard Poodle who is 11 that is on chemotherapy right now. I just gave her the second dose yesterday. So far things are going well. She seems to be feeling great (I hope so anyway). It was easy to relate to so many of the things you went through with Grizz. We are so fortunate to have the UW Vet School so close. They do such a great job.

It sounds like Grizz touched the lives of many people. He sounded like such a wonderful dog. He was lucky to have such good parents! I'm glad you shared your experiences with so many other people. You are a great writer! Thank you for donating the profits to research. The world would be a much better place without cancer. Please let me know if there's anything I can do to help you spread the word about his book. Regards,  Donna R

 

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Jo,

I just wanted to tell you I finished your book about Grizz. Great job on writing it. I love both inside covers although I cried from the first sentence.

I lost my male Siberian in Nov. to cancer. But I never had the time to spend with him after we had the diagnosis. He had a hemangiosarcoma of the spleen. Two weeks before surgery he was competing in agility and doing fine. We found the lump, did surgery a week later, and within 3 weeks he had to be put down. The cancer was so unbelievably fast, he deteriorated daily before my eyes. It still breaks my heart daily. He was my soul dog, like it sounds like Grizz was for you.

I have always had multiple Sibes and loved them all, but he was so special. I cried all the way through the book, but I loved it. I miss my boy dearly, and sometimes think I will never get over him.

Thanks for listening,

/_/ Gina
{ ~!~ } Tasha, Akela,
(y) Jynx, & Flash.

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole."
                                                                             Roger Caras

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Hi Jo and Barry,

Just wanted to drop a note and let you know how much I enjoyed the book.

You did a great job on it. I felt like I really knew Grizz when I read it.

I have been telling a lot of people about it so hopefully, some of them

will buy your book. I'll be talking to Sharon soon about doing dinner.

Hope to see you soon! Take care.

Deb Z

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Good morning Jo,

I was waiting for my husband, Ron, to finish Grizz before getting back to you. I gave him the book after I finished and challenged him to try to read it with a dry eye. He prides himself as a rock, but admitted how difficult it was for him. It seems our experiences are so very similar to yours and Grizz.
Today is the one-year anniversary of Blue's first chemo treatment. I believe Ron and I may be some of the people waiting in the reception area of the vet hospital awaiting news that you mentioned in your book. We've met some pretty wonderful people and animals there. I wish we had met you and Grizz.
Blue finished his CCNC rescue protocol, two weeks ago and we're hoping for a long remission. His coat is back, looks good, and seems in high spirits. He is still very playful with us and Sadie.
Thanks again Jo for your book and your prayers. We wish you and yours many happy and healthy days ahead.

Take care, Vick

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Hi Jo-

I can't begin tell you how much your book touched me! The pain you all must have been going through and yet just three months later, there you were in my class with your new little angel. ^j^ I think Grizz had a part in Barry recovering so nicely!!  I talked with Dr. Murphy yesterday and told him I had read the book. He told me that he thought your whole family was just amazing through the entire process. Thank you for allowing me to get to know your little Grizz!    Silvia

 

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Jo, I finished the book last night and it is so wonderful. I wish I had the words to tell you how great it is. Seeing the pictures of Grizz, Sarge and Kodi as puppies gave me a feeling of watching them grow up. I am sure that Grizz guided you and Kodi to each other.

Thank you so much dear lady for writing this book.

love granny

 

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Jo,

Grizz's story came on Wednesday and I could not put it down and finished it Wednesday night.

What a wonderful, wonderful story and tribute. For all of us who have or are still going thru this can really relate to the trials and tribulations that this journey takes us on.  I too, am extremely attached to Jogger's oncologist. I am so surprised at the bond that forms. We are lucky to have our "special" dogs come into our lives and change our lives forever. Peace and strength to you always. Thank you for sharing your story.

Cindy

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December 23, 2003

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!! 

YOUR BOOK WAS WONDERFUL AND VERY TOUCHING...I WILL GIVE IT TO MOM TO READ NEXT.  SAW YOU ON T.V., TOO.  I AM SO GLAD THAT YOU WROTE THAT BOOK, IT IS GREAT THERAPY FOR ANYONE WHO IS GOING THROUGH OR HAS GONE THROUGH THE LOSS OF A PET.  THANKS FOR WRITING IT.

 

BLESS YOU ALL THIS SEASON AND IN THE NEW YEAR TO COME.   

LOVE,  DAWN.

 

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HI JO!!!! I JUST HAD TO TELL YOU HOW MUCH I ENJOYED YOUR BOOK!! I READ IT LAST NIGHT AND NOW MY 10 YEAR OLD IS READING IT, SHE LOVES DOGS, AND CAN'T WAIT TO READ IT.  I HAVE TOLD MANY PEOPLE ABOUT YOUR BOOK I HOPE YOUR SALES GO WELL    

Justine B

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10-25-2003

Hi Jo,

  I just wanted to tell you that I just finished your book and it was "WONDERFUL"!!  I enjoyed every word and every picture.  We wish that it would not have had to have been written and that Grizz was still with us, but it is truly "Beautiful".  Grizz would be so proud of you.

Pat Helms-(sister-in-law who bought the 1st copy!!)