"For me, Opie truly was a gift sent from heaven. If you believe in signs, his birthday is my beloved now-passed-on grandma’s birthday."
When I came home from the Middle East, Opie smoothed my transition back from deployment. He was my first-ever fur baby. His foster Mom brought him over to meet me, and he ran immediately into my arms. That started what has been for both of us a lifesaving love affair.
For me, Opie truly was a gift sent from heaven. If you believe in signs, his birthday is my beloved now-passed-on grandma’s birthday.
About 6 months after Opie came to me, my mother was diagnosed with cancer. My words will never do justice to explain how pivotal Opie has been since the day we received that devastating diagnosis. My mom adored her fur-grand baby and needed no special occasion to spoil him. During my mom’s courageous battle for 11 months, Opie and I moved to Dayton in order to be with her. When her pain became excruciating, he would lay next to her so she would match his breathing and could finally fall asleep. He made sure that his grandma got goodnight kisses every single night.
Remembering the amount of comfort and joy that Opie brought to my mom’s final days are the moments I hold onto when my continuing waves of grief overtake me.
Currently I am living with and taking care of my dad. He is unable to work anymore and is dependent on his social security. I moved in to assist with the aftermath of his orthopedic surgeries and with the household finances.
So now Opie brings joy to my father. Dad loves it when Opie begins his “ice cube antics”. Whenever our crazy dog hears the freezer door open and the ice cube tray crack, he comes running!
As hard as I try, I can’t find the right words to describe the overwhelming gratitude I have for every person who gave any of the money that saved us. Thanks to you, Opie’s knee is repaired. He is returning to his hyper 3-year-old self again. My Dad and I are soaking in the joy that is returning to us all. Thank you for giving my best friend—really, all of us—our lives back. –Opie’s Mom
