URGENT UPDATE: A U.S. Army and Marine veteran from Colorado credits his service dog, a yellow Labrador named Tommy, with saving his life during a critical health scare. In February, Tommy alerted Hank Ford to an irregular heartbeat, potentially preventing a life-threatening stroke.
This dramatic incident underscores the profound impact that service dogs can have on their owners’ lives, especially for those battling PTSD. Ford, who has struggled with this condition, described Tommy as not just a companion but a life-saver. “It was a dark spot. He turned the lights on,” Ford stated, emphasizing the transformation in his life since Tommy joined him.
On that fateful morning in February, Tommy deviated from his routine of waking Ford at 7:00 a.m. and instead began hitting him in the chest. “He wasn’t coming up to my face. He was literally hitting me in the chest,” Ford recalled. Recognizing something was amiss, Ford immediately sought medical help.
At the hospital, doctors confirmed that Ford was experiencing a rapid and irregular heartbeat. They informed him that without Tommy’s timely intervention, he could have faced a massive stroke or worse. “If he hadn’t acted like he did, I may not have woken up,” Ford explained, highlighting the importance of service dogs in emergency situations.
Ford’s testimony sheds light on the struggles many veterans face when deciding to get a service dog. “A lot of veterans won’t get a dog because they think people look at you differently when you’re in a store,” he said. However, he passionately advocates for their benefits, asserting, “A dog makes a huge difference.” His story is a powerful reminder of the essential role service animals play in improving the quality of life for veterans.
The emotional bond between Ford and Tommy goes beyond companionship; it signifies hope and recovery for many veterans grappling with the invisible wounds of war. As Ford stated, “Everybody that knows me can’t believe the difference in me.” His heartfelt message is a call to action for those considering assistance animals as a pathway to healing.
This incident not only highlights the immediate life-saving capabilities of service dogs but also emphasizes the broader implications for mental health support among veterans. As awareness grows, more veterans may find the courage to embrace the support of these incredible animals.
As this story continues to resonate, it serves as an urgent reminder of the critical support that can come from the unlikeliest of heroes—our pets. Share this inspiring story to raise awareness about the life-changing impact of service dogs on veterans’ lives.
