Girl battling terminal brain tumor gets 50,000 letters, photos from dogs

A Wisconsin girl battling a terminal illness is finding strength and comfort from thousands of four-legged pen pals.

According to WISC-TV, Emma Mertens, 7, of Hartland, was diagnosed with a DIPG, or diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. Emma's GoFundMe page describes the condition as a "rare and inoperable brain tumor."

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But thanks to flyers that have gone viral on Facebook, some new furry friends have boosted Emma’s spirits.

"Attention dog parents!!" reads the flyer. "Emma Mertens is a 7-year-old little girl who is terminally ill and wants comfort in the form of letters from dogs. If you are interested, you can help by sending a letter from your dog. This can include written letter[s] or emails and can even have photos or videos attached."

Explore>> See one of the flyers here

This was posted on a local rescue group. Can you find it in your heart to have a pet send a letter ? There’s even an...
Posted by Dodge County Scanner on Tuesday, February 26, 2019

So far, Emma has received 50,000 photos and letters, "Good Morning America" reported Wednesday.

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Want to write to Emma on your dog's behalf? Email emmalovesdogs7@gmail.com or mail a letter to Emma Mertens, P.O. Box 230, Hartland, WI 53029. You also can donate to her GoFundMe campaign here.