A deeply personal journey with their beloved golden retriever, Cassie, Dave and Eddylee Scott created a legacy that will advance cancer care for generations of pets and their families. Their experience with Washington State University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital inspired the establishment of the Cassie Scott Professorship in Veterinary Oncology, an endowed fund supporting clinical innovation and compassionate care in veterinary oncology.
Cassie was referred to WSU in 2008 for treatment of a tumor, and over the course of nearly two years, the Scotts worked closely with the hospital’s oncology team as they navigated surgery, radiation, and emerging cancer therapies. When traditional treatments were exhausted, Cassie began a then-new combination of oral anti-cancer drugs that allowed her to enjoy a high quality of life far longer than expected. The Scotts never forgot the dedication, skill, and kindness shown by the WSU clinicians who cared for her.
Their gratitude transformed into action. In 2010 and 2011, the Scotts organized community fundraisers that together generated more than $20,000 in support of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Cassie passed away following her courageous battle with cancer, but the Scotts continued to honor her memory and the medical team that supported her.
Through their estate, Dave and Eddylee established the Cassie Scott Professorship in Veterinary Oncology to strengthen veterinary cancer care and advance the academic mission of WSU. The professorship provides support for faculty leadership in oncology — helping fund scholarly work, clinical innovation, and the training of future veterinarians.
The Scotts’ generosity ensures that pets facing cancer will receive leading-edge care, and that the compassion shown to Cassie will extend to countless animals and families for years to come.