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Boston Man Embarks On Journey In Memory Of Fallen Dog

Luke Robinson Walking From Boston To Texas For Canine Cancer Research

POSTED: 7:09 pm EDT June 30, 2009
UPDATED: 8:32 pm EDT June 30, 2009

Luke Robinson calls his journey that of "two dogs, 2,000 miles."

When Robinson lost one of his dogs to cancer, decided to walk 2,000 miles from his hometown of Austin, Texas, all the way to Boston, Mass., to raise money for canine cancer research.

On Tuesday, Robinson's journey brought him to Pittsburgh.

Robinson and his two Great Pyrenees, Murphy and Hudson, were making their way to PNC Park to catch a game between the Pirates and Chicago Cubs.

Luke Robinson with dogs Murphy and Hudson

The business consultant left his home and job in Boston to walk from his native Texas all the way back to Beantown.

That was more than a year ago, with his travels and Web site inspiring thousands.

"Everyone I've talked to believes that canine cancer is an epidemic of frightening proportions," said Robinson.

His inspiration was his dog, Malcolm, who died of bone cancer two years ago.

"Before I had him I didn't know people could have such a deep and profound relationship with an animal. He changed everything," said Robinson.

Robinson made a promise to Malcolm to devote his life to canine cancer research.

Along the way he has met scientists and veterinary oncologist.

"Veterinary oncology is still decades behind human medical science, and I think because there weren't the drugs choices available --the treatment options available -- I think see that gap is initially inspired me," said Robinson.

But canine cancers are the same as those humans suffer from.

"They get melanoma, brain cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, lymphoma, and in fact, it's a whole area of science called comparative oncology. Dogs, and even cats, are a great model for understanding cancer in humans," said Robinson.
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