Welcome to another edition of the CertaPet newsletter! This week, our report centers around the uplifting tale of teen cancer survivor Zoee Foster, and her emotional support animal (ESA) Chunk. Stick with us to learn more.
After Battling Cancer, Florida Teen Rallies To Save The ESA That Helped Save Her
When Zoee Foster was just 14, her world shifted when she was diagnosed with leukemia. What followed were two grueling years marked by complications few adults ever endure. She battled septic shock, developed brain abscesses, and later faced hydrocephalus.
Altogether, Zoee spent nearly 100 days in the hospital, pushing through every setback. She also had to slowly relearn the basic skills illness had taken from her, such as walking, speaking, and even writing.
In March 2024, assistance arrived in the form of a small French Bulldog named Chunk. He was gifted to Zoee through Grey’s Superhero Foundation, a nonprofit devoted to pairing pediatric cancer patients with emotional support dogs.
Chunk quickly slipped into the role Zoee didn’t know she needed. Through demanding treatments and long nights, he became her constant source of comfort, easing fear and lifting her spirits when she needed it most.
This past summer, however, the dog who had helped her heal suddenly became the one in danger. According to a GoFundMe post, Chunk developed a mysterious, worsening illness that sent him to emergency veterinarians again and again. Months passed with no clear answers until specialists at the University of Florida Small Animal Hospital discovered the cause: a severe airway obstruction.
Last month, Chunk underwent an extensive surgery designed to save his life. Surgeons corrected his palate, widened his nasal passages, and removed obstructive tissue in his airway. The procedure worked, but it carried a heavy price.
Because Grey’s Superhero Foundation is still in its early stages, the burden for Chunk’s care fell directly on those closest to him. Both the Foster family and the foundation’s founder, Tari Pacifico of Green Cove Springs (the mother of a pediatric brain cancer survivor herself), paid out of pocket.
Between medical bills and travel costs, expenses climbed to nearly $5,000, a challenging amount for families already recovering from the financial and emotional toll of childhood cancer. Donations are now being collected to help cover the remaining veterinary costs, medications, follow-up appointments, and recovery needs.
Zoee is expected to complete her final chemotherapy treatment next month at Nemours Children’s Health in Jacksonville. When she rings the bell to celebrate the end of her cancer journey, Chunk will be at her side, the little dog who stood by her through it all.
Source: St.Johns Citizen
CertaPet’s Thoughts on This Week’s News
Emotional support animals don’t just provide companionship; they uplift and help their handlers push through moments that feel impossible. Chunk gave Zoee comfort when treatment was at its hardest, proving how powerful that bond can be. And when he needed care in return, Zoee showed that support runs both ways. Their story is a potent reminder that ESAs can help recovery in ways that can astound.
Getting an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) as part of your treatment care plan has never been easier. If you’re living with emotional or mental health challenges, an ESA could ease your symptoms and help you live a happier, fuller life. If you’re ready to start the process, take our 5-minute pre-screening test for free. We’ll connect you with a licensed mental health professional, who will have a consultation with you. Then, if you qualify, you’ll get your ESA letter in no time.