Addi Gehres and Marley

GROVE CITY, OHIO — A young girl in Ohio hopes dog kisses can help end cancer.

She’s using her beloved pup to raise money for Pelotonia, a nonprofit cancer research organization that raises money through a bike ride and other events.

There’s no doubt Addi Gehres loves absolutely everything about Marley.

“My favorite thing about Marley is he’ll lay on your feet when they’re cold,” the 8-year-old said.

But right now, Addi is willing to share him.

Actually, she has it all planned out.

“People will pay a dollar so Marley can get kisses.”

It’s Addi’s way of raising money for Pelotonia. She just wants to do her part.

“I think it’s good to help people because their families must be very worried about them and they want them to get better,” Addi said.

Addi’s parents have biked in Pelotonia for six years now. Addi has become a virtual rider, and for good reason.

“Two months after Addison was born, my mother passed away from cancer, after an eight-year battle,” said Ericka Gehres, Addi’s mom.

“She may not remember her grandmother, but she knows how much she loved her and everything she wanted to do for her,” said Addi’s father, Keith Gehres. “To see how it impacts others is just something that is beyond words for us as parents.”

They’re all in favor of this dog kissing idea.

“Marley has never met a stranger, so we definitely don’t think he’ll mind giving out all those kisses,” Ericka said.

“There’ll be plenty to go around,” Keith added.

Learn more about Pelotonia.

Source: WTHR