Our Heroes

In Memoriam of Cancer Research Heroes

Honoring the pets whose legacy helps advance cancer research and bring hope to others

Cancer Research Hero Registry

Barkley Francis Wren – Standard Poodle / German Shepherd Mix

Barkley Francis Wren

Barkley Francis Wren (aka “the Big One” or “the Galumphagus”) was adopted by the Wren family in 2016 from the Virginia Beach SPCA. A DNA test later revealed that Barkley was 75% Standard Poodle and 25% German Shepherd.

Tipping the scales at 95 lbs, Barkley was a loving and gentle giant whose greatest desire was to be with his family. He was constantly on a mission to show love to others and was known for joining in on any hugging going on in his presence.

Barkley enjoyed his morning walks around the neighborhood and earned the nickname “the mayor” for his friendly greetings to people and animals alike.

Barkley was gifted with uncommon empathy and would accompany his dad, a mental health counselor, to group therapy sessions where he showed an uncanny ability to share his love with participants when they needed it most.

The Wren family believes “every good and perfect gift comes from the Lord” and is grateful for the 10 years they had with Barkley and asks the Lord to bless the team at NC State in their endeavors to bring healing to others.

Chewie Parker Sim – Pitbull/Bull Mastiff Mix

Chewie was the kindest, most gentle soul we’ve ever known. He was a loving, happy boy who wanted to become friends with everyone he met. He was deeply devoted to his family and loved simply being with us.

Some of his favorite things were car rides with his head rested on our shoulders, hanging out the window, or paws and head rested on the center console between mom and dad. He loved his daily walks around the neighborhood with his sister, rolling in soft grass on a sunny day, roughhousing with dad, stretching out on the couch or bed, surrounded by pillows, or snuggled up to us as close as he could get.

His first few years with us were spent living in Florida, close to the Everglades. In his adolescent years, he was a true escape artist, digging underneath the fence and sneaking off the moment one of us looked away, disappearing into the woods for hours, where we imagine he was likely making friends with panthers, bobcats, and bears. He’d show up later, panting, muddy, scraped up, and with the biggest smile on his face.

For 6 and a half years, he brought our family so much joy, love, laughter, and warmth. Although our time together was cut short, we consider ourselves truly blessed to have crossed paths with him. Rescued from Lead Animal Shelter in Las Vegas, NV, July 18th, 2019.