Sasha’s wish continues with ‘Taking Care of Paws’

MADISON – An annual drive for pet food will perpetuate a young girl’s kindheartedness and thus care for the animals that she truly loved.

The “Taking Care of Paws – Sasha’s Way” drive will be held in memory of Alexandra ‘Sasha’ Dison on Aug. 24 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Furniture Factory Bar and Grill at 614 Meridian St. N., no. 200, in Huntsville.

“Come and enjoy great food, meet new people, and make a craft,” coordinator Beth Mumaw said. Craft supplies will be provided.  “Please donate cat and dog food, cat litter and pet toys in memory of Sasha.”

Sasha had Stage 4 rhabdomayosarcoma, a cancer that develops in the body’s connective tissue. Starting in August 2012, she completed a 54-week treatment plan for tumors in the pelvic region and lungs.

In March 2013, she was placed on an experimental treatment. Sasha passed away on April 27, 2014 at Children’s of Alabama hospital in Birmingham.

To perpetuate Sasha’s goal to help animals, the “Taking Care of Paws – Sasha’s Way” was founded to raise funds to feed and comfort sick and injured dogs and cats, Mumaw said.

To close the supply drive and get-together, the guests traditionally blow/stream bubbles. This fitting closure does not present a risk to harm animals, as opposed to releasing balloons in the air. 

“It is hard to miss you, Sasha. You have changed our lives forever as we remember the joy you have given us,” Mumaw said.

Over the years since the supply drive started, Taking Care of Paws – Sasha’s Way has received thousands of pounds of dog and cat food from local individuals. Volunteers have distributed the food locally. A corporate donor, Big Heart Pet Brands in Decatur, generously donated 4,000 pounds of dog and cat food.

Sasha’s parents are Jonathan and Larissa Dison.

For more information, visit Facebook/TCP – Sasha’s Way.