**Community Rallying for Donkey’s Owner Facing Cancer Battle**
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A heartfelt appeal for support is being made by Kelly Blake, the owner of Walter the Wonder Donkey, who has recently been diagnosed with a rare form of cancer known as clear cell carcinoma. This illness, usually found in organs such as the kidney, ovaries, and pancreas, requires extensive medical treatment projected to cost between £100,000 and £150,000. Unfortunately, according to Kelly, her health insurance will not cover these expenses.
In 2025, Kelly was faced with the daunting diagnosis that has left her and her husband, Brad Blake, in a challenging situation. The couple made the difficult decision to relocate from Oatman, Arizona, to Colorado Springs, Colorado, in hopes of finding suitable treatment options. However, they were met with unforeseen complications, including being advised to enter hospice care after exhausting their savings through three rounds of treatment.
“This was not the outcome we anticipated,” Brad explained in an interview, expressing the emotional toll of being away from their home and support system. “We both don’t believe we’re anywhere near that stage,” he added, indicating their determination to fight this illness rather than succumb to despair.
Upon discovering that hospice care was not the path they wished to take, the couple sought a specialised care centre in Scottsdale, Arizona, which would allow Kelly to be closer to home during her treatment. The transition to this facility prompted them to create a GoFundMe to assist in covering the substantial medical costs associated with Kelly’s care, including potential relocation expenses.
The couple’s fundraising page outlines the magnitude of their financial needs, stating that the treatment alone would require between £100,000 and £150,000 out of pocket. On top of this considerable amount, they are also grappling with substantial ancillary costs, such as the relocation to Scottsdale and everyday living expenses while they navigate this challenging time away from work.
In rallying for assistance, Brad reflected on the overwhelming support they received from their community when they first took Walter into their care seven years prior. The love and support that helped them successfully nurture Walter through his early challenges are now sought once again for Kelly. “It took around-the-clock love and a village of support to pull him through,” he noted, emphasising the vital role of their community during this ordeal.
As of now, the GoFundMe campaign has successfully raised over £48,000 towards their £55,000 target. The couple expressed profound gratitude for the kindness and generosity they have witnessed. “It gives us the ability to fight again,” Brad remarked, appreciating the life-changing impact of the donations they have received.
Kelly, initially sceptical about whether the community would respond, has been deeply moved by the outpouring of support. “I thought it was just going to be like a pipe dream,” she lamented, admitting she had tears in her eyes when she realised the extent of people’s kindness. The affection and solidarity from their supporters bolsters her resolve as she prepares for the upcoming medical challenges.
In this difficult chapter of their lives, the Blakes’ story has captivated many, showcasing the exceptional community spirit and the bonds that can unite people in times of need. As they navigate the road ahead towards treatment, the hope remains that with the support of their friends, family, and a broader online community, Kelly will receive the help necessary to overcome this daunting battle against cancer.