Lana Lou Jackson’s story began with love, courage, and a mission to make people’s lives brighter. She was adopted from a rescue at just 4 months old.

She had two hip surgeries on her left hip, one at 8 months and then because it was a failure, another at 11 months. She went through alot of physical therapy, and during that time, she began training to work with Dementia patients. She became part of a team of about 6 dogs & handlers, who visited the memory care facility every week. Soon after, her older sister Nellie got licensed and they formed a second team of 2, visiting another facility each week as well.

Lana Lou brings calm, laughter, and comfort wherever she goes, and those she helps love her company. .

In August of 2022, Lana fought through Valley Fever for 9 month before overcoming it. It was rough, and there were a few times she almost lost the battle - yet she pressed on.

Then in Feb 2024, during routine oral care, they found a mass - and it was oral melanoma. After removing that, it came back about 4 months later. Another surgery removing the mass and her lymph nodes, adding oral chemo and the wonderful Torigen testing & vaccines, she was cancer free until May 2025. Additional surgery wasn't an option, so we have continued with Oral Chemo & palliative support to keep her happy, comfortable and active as long as possible.

Her story reminds us that healing isn’t just physical — it’s emotional, creative, and deeply connected to purpose.

Even as she battles cancer again, Lana’s spirit lives in every creative work she inspires. Each coloring book, journal, puzzle, and piece of art now helps support canine cancer research and rescue programs that give other dogs their second chance.