Boy sells Pokémon cards to save puppy. Bryson Kliemann is eight years old and lives in Lebanon, Virginia. He learned about his beloved Labrador retriever puppy, Bruce. Bruce was battling a life-threatening illness. Without hesitation, Bryson took action. Bryson showed love and sacrifice by selling his treasured collection of Pokémon cards. He did this to help cover Bruce’s veterinary bills. His actions touched the hearts of people far and wide.
Bruce’s Parvo Diagnosis: A Shocking Discovery for the Family
Earlier this spring, Kimberly and Tyler Woodruff brought home their first family dog, Bruce, a four-month-old Labrador retriever mix. While the family has always loved pets, Bruce quickly became the heart of their home, especially for Bryson. However, after receiving all of his crucial puppy vaccinations, Bruce unexpectedly fell ill, becoming lethargic and losing weight.
The family was devastated. A vet diagnosed Bruce with parvovirus, or parvo. It is a highly contagious and often fatal condition that inflames a dog’s intestines. Emergency vet care was the only option, but the treatment costs quickly escalated. Initially quoted at $700, Bruce’s case was more advanced, requiring extended care that pushed the bill into the thousands. The financial strain was significant for the Woodruff family, with only one working parent and mounting expenses.
Bryson’s Selfless Decision: Selling Pokémon Cards to Save Bruce
Overhearing his parents’ concerns about the medical bills, Bryson decided to take matters into his own hands. With an incredible sense of responsibility, he turned to his most prized possessions—his collection of Pokémon cards. For Bryson, Pokémon cards had been his favorite gift since he was four years old, representing years of memories. He did not hesitate. He set up a stand in his front yard. He was determined to sell his collection to raise funds for Bruce’s care.
“I’m his mom, I’m supposed to handle things like this,” said Kimberly Woodruff, overwhelmed by her son’s generosity. “But he’s such a sweet boy, always helping others. It broke my heart to see him giving up his beloved collection, but I was so proud.”
A Community Comes Together: The Power of Compassion
Bryson’s act of kindness didn’t go unnoticed. Neighbors and passersby stopped to purchase cards. Some offered more money than asked. Others simply left donations without taking any cards. In just two days, Bryson raised $400. His story, however, went beyond his neighborhood. Inspired by the boy’s dedication to saving his dog, the local community and beyond began to rally behind him.
Fellow Pokémon collectors donated cards to replenish Bryson’s collection. A local brewery hosted a “Brews for Bruce” event to raise additional funds. An employee from the Pokémon Company in Seattle sent Bryson a package of rare cards as a special thank-you. What started as one boy’s effort to save his dog soon turned into a global movement.
A Happy Ending for Bruce and Beyond: Paying It Forward
As donations poured in, Kimberly started a GoFundMe page with an $800 goal. To the family’s amazement, the fundraiser far exceeded expectations, raising over $7,500 from pet lovers worldwide. The money not only covered Bruce’s treatment. It also allowed the Woodruff family to help other pet owners facing financial hardship. They adopted a “pay it forward” approach. They used the extra funds to assist families struggling to afford vet care. They also donated to local animal shelters.
“We feel so blessed and overwhelmed by the outpouring of support,” Kimberly said. “Bryson’s actions have brought so much love and kindness into our lives, and we’re happy to extend that to others.”
Bruce’s Recovery: A Healthy, Happy Pup
As for Bruce, he made a full recovery, regaining his weight, energy, and playful spirit. He’s back to his joyful self. His coat is shiny and his tail is wagging. He is grateful for the boy who would go to any lengths to save him. Bryson, too, has been rewarded. He received not just new Pokémon cards, but also the love and appreciation of his community and beyond.
This heartwarming story reminds us all of the power of love, sacrifice, and community. Even the smallest gestures can create ripples of compassion across the world.
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