To be sure, they both knew hard times.

Stephanie Williams was a writer living in New York City when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at 30. Gus was an abandoned dog who was rescued after being hit by a truck and left for dead. Serendipity brought the two together.

Gus brought her out of her troubles, says Stephanies sister, Laurie, a writer who chronicles the love and devotion they shared in Just Gus: A Rescued Dog and the Woman He Loved. Seeing them together taught me about unconditional love.

Though Stephanies illness worsened, Gus remained a constant bright spot in her difficult life. They shared morning walks together, and Stephanie proudly watched as Gus took his first swim at a nearby park. Gus also provided unyielding support as Stephanie finished her first novel, about a young woman with terminal breast cancer.

The novel, Enter Sandman, was published weeks before Stephanies death in 2004. Laurie, inspired by Stephanies courage, decided to complete her sisters unfinished book about Gus. Stephanie had a way of pushing you to do the things you wanted to do but were afraid of, says Laurie. She's still taking care of us.

Posted: April 17, 2006, 5 a.m. EST