Calvin's Gift: A Celebration of Bill Robert's Life and Legacy

This is the story of a dear friend who recently passed away, told through the eyes of his beloved dog: Hi, my name is Calvin Roberts, and I am the proud puppy son of Bill Roberts.   Yes, I am a mutt of sorts, but very sleek and greyhound like, with floppy ears and long legs.  I must say, I am quite handsome.  My grandma Beverly gave me to my dad, after my brother Buddy went to heaven.  Beverly taught me how to sit pretty and walk up the stairs backwards –  key things you need to know to get extra treats. My dad recused me from an animalshelter and has spent every day since then providing me with the best home and family a dog could want.  Two years ago our family grew with the additions of my brother Pepper, sister Stella and, most importantly, my mom, Erica.  She scratches behind my ears, takes me for walks and even got me a new leather chair to sit on. You can say it, you’re jealous because I have the best family out there. It's okay.   My dad was the bravest non-four-legged creature out there. During the day, when humans work, my dad was one of the "big dogs" at the law firm Kutak Rock.  My dad stayed by my side through thick and thin, when I was sick and even during his recent battle with cancer.  I don't understand cancer but it was very hard on my family.  I tried to be the best dog out there, which let’s be honest, I already was. I stayed by his side, even when it required me to sleep in their very comfortable bed with clean sheets and extra pillows. Dad even let me help him eat some of his extra food when he couldn't.  I sensed that dad was really sick and that none of the medicine on earth could help him get better.  My brave mom and grandma told me that dad went to heaven to be with Buddy and the other Roberts family that had left this world.  I asked why God needed dad now, since I was still a young puppy and I too, need him.  Mom said he was called to serve as legal counsel for all the doggies in heaven that needed help finding their family members so that they could live happily ever after.   Although that is such a noble cause, I still miss him very much.  Although my mom, grandma, sister and brother are by my side, I want to do something to honor my dad, in my own way.  He gave me so much love and care, that I want to do something good for others just like he did for me. So, our dear friend Angela Viehland said she would help me out.  Everything is now on computers, or worse, mobile technology. Have you ever had to navigate these things without thumbs? You can't swipe to unlock with your nose yet but maybe I should develop an App for that.  My dad loved to travel and always wanted to visit New York City, but he unfortunately was never able to. So, what better way to honor my dad than by having Angela run 26.2 miles while I eat popcorn and cheer her on from my couch?  Oh yea, and raise lots of funds for the ASPCA at the same time. I got focused on the food, sorry.  Did you know that the ASPCA help all animals, not just extremely handsome and smart dogs like myself?  They even help kittens and other non-canine animals.  They help animals that are sick, who can't always tell their moms and dads they need medicine.  I think my Dad would be honored by this act of kindness and I hope you will show your support by donating some funds to an amazing organization in memorial of my amazing Dad.  I don't' like to ask for money, unless it’s money for dog treats or bacon; sorry, it’s in my DNA.   I know it's not easy for everyone to give a lot so please just give what you can. Every dollar really does count.  I know that my dad is watching down from heaven smiling that I am doing something good for others, just like he did.  Oh, and one last thing, for those of you with fancy corporate jobs, some of your companies may match your donation, so check into that.  That may mean you can double your donation!   From the bottom of my heart, and stomach, I truly thank you for helping me honor my dad by leaving a legacy that he would be proud of.  He never asked for much and always wanted to help others. Please don't forget to cheer on Angela Viehland as she runs 26.2 miles in NYC on November 6, 2016.   Message from Angela Viehland:On November 6, 2016, I will be participating in the 2016 TCS New York City Marathon as a member of Team ASPCA, a national fundraising and endurance training program. I am excited to be participating as a member of Team ASPCA and honored to be raising awareness and much-needed funding to support the ASPCA's programs. Your donation will help the ASPCA provide life-saving programs and services to millions of animals nationwide. The ASPCA is very important to me and I appreciate your help as we fight to give abused and homeless animals a second chance at life. Please support me by making a donation and help me make a positive impact in the lives of animals! Thank you!