The Bark Side

‘Star Wars’ theme draws crowds to park for Bark for Life

POTTSTOWN » It became clear on April 28 that Memorial Park had gone to the dogs.

A parade of pups took over the park for the return of the annual Bark for Life fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Attendees had a chance to browse the numerous pet-related tables and even take photos with characters from “Star Wars” in celebration of this year’s theme, “Paw Wars: The Bark Strikes Back.”

By 10 a.m., the park was filled with dogs of all shapes and sizes who showed up with their owners to take a stroll around the park and enjoy a day aimed at appreciating four-legged companions and their role in supporting cancer patients.

Before the walk began, speakers discussed the role their pets have played in the struggle they or a loved one have faced with cancer. Among the participants in the event was Pottstown Mayor Stephanie Henrick, who shared her experience with the crowd.

“One year ago today, I lost my mother to pancreatic cancer,” said Henrick. “Six months before she was diagnosed I found a stray cat outside my office. After much resistance I got my mom to take this kitten. My mom didn’t want her. She was a dog person. They formed an instant connection. Margo Hemmingway, that’s what she named her cat, was a dog in a cat’s body. Through suffering, through her treatment, Margo was always there for her,

constantly comforting her and being with her every second of the day.”

Many people who attended Bark for Life had similar stories, including the event’s Grand Marshal, Marie Logan. Logan’s granddaughter shared her story of finding comfort in her Rottweiler puppy, Mischa, after being diagnosed with breast cancer and relayed that several other family members went through a similar situation. The story reminded those in attendance of how important a pet can be to someone struggling with health issues, particularly cancer.

“The only thing that they ask for in return, for all the love and support they give you through your struggles, is a scratch behind the ear, fresh food and water, a treat every once in a while, a cuddle and praise when they did good, and when it is their time to leave us, to be reassured that the short time they spent in this life meant as much to you as it did to them. Remember, you are their entire universe and they would give up everything for you,” Logan’s story concluded.

After the ceremony, animals were blessed and the walk could begin. As “Who Let the Dogs Out” played, dogs and their owners began the walk around Memorial Park, beginning a day of pet-friendly activities. Events and stands included a doggy kissing booth by K-9 Cottage, a Sly Fox beer garden, a corn hole tournament, 50/50 raffles, live music and more.

“It’s very rewarding. It can be very stressful at times because it’s a full time second job but at the end of the day, it’s for a great cause,” said Melissa Lash, organizer of the Bark for Life, on getting the event together. “Most of all, I’m looking forward to seeing all the dogs and all the participants coming out for today.”

So far, Bark for Life Pottstown has raised $20,424 for The American Cancer Society with 17 teams and 59 participants in the event.

To learn more about Bark for Life, visit Facebook.com/BFLPottstown.

MARIAN DENNIS – DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA “Star Wars” characters including Chewbacca, made an appearance at the Bark for Life Pottstown. The theme for this year’s event was “Paw Wars: The Bark Strikes Back.”

MARIAN DENNIS – DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA Dogs at Bark for Life Pottstown had a lot to keep them entertained throughout the day. The event featured multiple dog-related stands as well as fun activities for families.

MARIAN DENNIS – DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA Grand Marshal Marie Logan kicked off the Bark for Life walk with her family in Memorial Park in Pottstown.

MARIAN DENNIS – DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA Organizer Melissa Lash receives a plaque recognizing her work in putting together the annual Bark for Life Pottstown.

MARIAN DENNIS – DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA Dogs enjoyed puppy-friendly treats as they walked around Memorial Park and raised money for The American Cancer Society.

MARIAN DENNIS – DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA Dogs were dressed their best for the “Star Wars” themed Bark for Life of Pottstown Saturday. The day’s events including meet and greets with Star Wars characters as well as live music, a corn hole tournament and more.

MARIAN DENNIS – DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA Even the dogs had smiles on their faces as the took a stroll with their owners around Memorial Park in Pottstown for the annual Bark for Life event.

MARIAN DENNIS – DIGITAL FIRST MEDIA Dog lovers were in their element as they gathered in Memorial Park in Pottstown to help raise money for the American Cancer Society at the Bark for Life Pottstown.