Help support Buddy through his medical journey with Lower Motor Neuron Disease, a degenerative neurological condition.

About Buddy:

Buddy is a 4 and a half year old golden retriever. He was born and bred for service work and was ultimately trained to be a Hospital Facility Dog. This means, he spent the entirety of his career working full time, yes 40 hours a week!, along me, his mom and another handler, both Certified Child Life Specialists. His job was to help patients through hospitalization. This could look like aiding with physical therapy or occupational therapy, supporting patients through painful procedures, or providing end of life and bereavement support. Buddy showed up every day ready to love and support every patient, family member, and staff he met.

His Diagnosis:

Around April 2024, Buddy seemed off. He was walking funny, tiring more, and seemed uninterested in being at work. By summertime, Buddy had underwent MANY tests (x-rays, MRIs, two lumbar punctures, two MRIs, EMGs, lab draws, and more). By the end of summer 2024 Buddy was diagnosed with Lower Motor Neuron Disease.

By December 2024, it was determined his Lower Motor Neuron Disease is degenerative, meaning he will continue with increased weakness in his back legs, and likely lose the ability to use them.

In April 2025, Buddy retired from working.

The Need:

Buddy now lives with his mom and dad, Candice (me) and Adam. The financial burden of Buddy’s care has fallen on our shoulders. Buddy has had to stop his physical therapy and aqua therapy, due to finances. He also may need to stop his chemo infusions which he’s been getting to help slow the progression of this disease.

In addition, Buddy has continued to have medical issues, including a concerns involving his bladder function and masses on his lips. And with future so unknown, us as his parents continue to expect the unexpected.

To know Buddy is to instantly feel love. Despite all of his struggles, he greets each day with a goofy smile and the most positive attitude. He is truly our best friend, and we consider him our child. We would do absolutely anything give him the life he deserves.

If you are able, please consider donating to Buddy’s ongoing medical needs.

We truly appreciate all of the support !

Please note, this fundraiser is completely independent and is not in anyway associated with Buddy's previous employment.