“To say that Kacie was the best dog we’ve ever had would be an understatement—just as it would be to describe the incredible impact she made through her final gift of donating her body to research. Her middle name, Luna, was given for her mostly white coat, but it could just as easily have been for her luminous, pure soul. She never met a person she didn’t love. Kacie always seemed to know when one of us needed a gentle nuzzle, a little extra affection, or her signature move—curling up on top of us as if we were her favorite chair (which, truthfully, we probably were).
Kacie found joy in the simple things: napping on every soft blanket, couch, and pile of freshly folded laundry; basking in the sun; watching her human brother and sister play in the yard; or strolling to the park. She attended countless “performances” from her sister and could spot her brother from across the baseball field. Living in Orlando, we always thought it was fitting that she had a little Mickey head marking on her face—and she even got to visit Disney many times herself.
When Kacie was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, it felt profoundly unfair for a soul so good and loving. Yet even in the face of that hardship, she gave one final, selfless gift. Through her donation, Kacie’s legacy will advance cancer research, improve treatment options, and help train the next generation of veterinary professionals.
Kacie was loved beyond measure, is deeply missed, and will never be forgotten.”
Love,
Platt Family
We at the Pain Innovations Research Laboratory are deeply grateful for the generosity of Kacie’s family and for allowing her legacy to live on through her remarkable contributions to science and education. Her gift will help advance research, inspire learning, and make a lasting difference in the lives of both animals and people. May she rest in peace.
If you are interested in donating to the Rainbow Bridge Memorial (for research and education), please contact the Clinical Trials office at VM-ClinicalStudies@ufl.edu.