A Legacy of Compassion

The Bear Family Foundation has long been committed to bringing hope and healing to our community. Thanks to their extraordinary generosity, that legacy continues through Curry, the newest member of Ascension Sacred Heart's Sacred Paws facility dog program.

As the first facility dog dedicated exclusively to supporting adult outpatient oncology patients, Curry provides dedicated support to individuals receiving treatments at Ascension Sacred Heart Cancer Center. Each year, the Cancer Center cares for approximately 2,400 patients receiving chemotherapy. Curry provides a calming, reassuring presence during radiation and infusion treatments, helping ease anxiety and create moments of comfort for patients and families navigating cancer care.

“Giving back has always been part of who we are,” said Belle Bear, of the Bear Family Foundation. “Cancer has touched our lives in deeply personal ways, so we understand that healing is about more than medicine. We hope Curry brings comfort, hope, and companionship to patients and their loved ones during some of their hardest days.”

Curry began serving patients June 22 after completing specialized training through Canine Assistants, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating and placing facility dogs across the country. 

We are incredibly thankful to the Bear Family Foundation for investing in the well-being of our patients and for helping make Curry's life-changing work possible. Their generosity is creating a lasting impact—one comforting paw at a time.