Sometimes in life, we don’t know a good thing until we see it. Ben Moon, an Oregon-based photographer, wasn’t even sure if he wanted a dog until he wound up at a shelter by chance and met the dog who would forever change his life. “I don’t know, it was one of those things where I felt like he kind of chose me,” Ben said. Quickly this dog, Denali, became Ben’s best friend, and the two embarked on life’s journey together until one day something changed. Ben was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer. Denali was there by his owner’s side through the darkest of times, and together they beat the cancer that tried unsuccessfully to take Ben’s life.
Ben is forever grateful to this amazing friend, who a decade later would be plagued with a cancer that he could not beat. To show his undying love for this dog he knew saved his own life, Ben created a touching tribute called “Denali” dedicated to his best friend. Get a tissue, because you’re going to need it:
Perhaps that really smart science guy they talked about in the film really was right. You can learn a lot from dogs, just as Ben knows. RIP Denali, you really were one special dog.
If you’d like to see more of Ben’s photos, and those of Denali, check out his Instagram profile here.
