Touching Photo Captures Dying Man Saying Final Goodbye to His Childhood Dog

A picture posted on the Internet Friday shows a 21-year-old dying cancer patient saying his final goodbye to his beloved childhood dog.

The photograph, shared on popular website Reddit, captures Mike Petrosino visiting with his dog Rusty one last time. Doctors expect Mike to succumb to his battle with cancer in just days.

Mike Petrosino's childhood dog Rusty visits him one last time. (Image courtesy of John Petrosino)

"My friend Mike was diagnosed with cancer in the 8th grade. He was given a 3% chance to survive the first year. Two days ago we found out that after 8 years, the amputation of his leg, and four rounds of cancer that there's now nothing that they can do," the Reddit post said. "This picture was taken by his brother yesterday."

"I just got back from Mass General and got to say goodbye with a bunch of old friends," it added. "He's the bravest guy I've ever met and all he did the entire day was make sure everyone else was okay."

Mike's brother, John, told TheBlaze it was an incredibly moving moment.

"That was by far one of the most touching moments of my life," he said Friday.

[sharequote align="center"]"That was by far one of the most touching moments of my life."[/sharequote]

"It was a very touching moment," Mike's mother, Paula, added. "Mike and Rusty grew up together and are very close."

John even said that it appeared Mike's childhood dog understood the dire situation.

"Rusty was very emotional when Mike said his finale goodbye," he said. "Every time I come home these past two days, he sits near Mike's favorite couch and whines, which is rare from him."

The family has setup an online website where individuals can donate to help with Mike's medical bills.

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