Three years ago, I made my son a promise. When we rescued Sammy, I told him, "Rescue is forever." Neither of us knew how quickly that promise would be tested. Just weeks after we adopted Sammy, he suffered a devastating injury. After two surgeries failed, questions about possible euthanasia we finally saw specialists at UC Davis that discovered that Sammy had congenital luxating patellas in both hind legs. They told us that the best way to give him the happiest life possible wasn't another surgery—it was rehabilitation and a wheelchair. So that's exactly what we did. We chose Sammy. And it was the best decision we ever made.

Today, Sammy isn't just surviving—he's thriving. He's a certified therapy dog, a social media ambassador for special-needs pets, and the best friend any little boy could ask for. Through his wheelchair, physical therapy, and determination, Sammy has inspired people to see disability differently. He reminds people every day that disability doesn't take away joy, purpose, or the ability to change lives. But to my son.. He's simply his brother.

This has been an incredibly difficult year for our family. On May 28, I was injured in a motor vehicle accident and have not been able to work the way I normally do while recovering. As a single mom, I'm balancing my own recovery while also providing specialized tutoring for Roan's dyslexia and continuing to care for Sammy's medical needs.

For two years, Sammy quietly sat beside a little boy as he learned to read. Today, that little boy is standing beside Sammy.

Without anyone asking him to, Roan decided to help. He made a handwritten sign, gathered snacks and drinks, and set up a little stand in front of our house to raise money for his disabled dog. His sign wasn't perfect. The spelling wasn't perfect. But his heart was. When I shared the video online, something incredible happened. People reached out asking one simple question: "How can we help Sammy?" This GoFundMe is our answer.

Before we even launched this fundraiser, something amazing happened. Walkin' Pets, the company that has supported Sammy's journey for years, generously donated a brand-new wheelchair for him. Their kindness means that every dollar raised can now go directly toward helping Sammy continue to grow stronger.

Our dream is to give Sammy every opportunity to live his healthiest, happiest life through bi-weekly physical therapy, chiropractic treatment, high-quality supplements and supportive care, a comprehensive re-evaluation at UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, and exploring additional rehabilitation and alternative therapies that may help Sammy become even stronger and more independent.

No one can promise how much function Sammy may regain. But we believe he deserves every opportunity. Sammy is now a certified therapy dog and we cant wait to continue helping others. At home, he has been by Roan's side through dyslexia tutoring, difficult days, and life's biggest challenges. His quiet presence has taught our family more about resilience than words ever could. Now we're asking for help giving back to him.

If you're able to donate, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. If you can't donate, sharing Sammy's story means just as much. Every share helps another person discover that special-needs pets are capable of extraordinary lives.

Thank you for believing in rescue. Thank you for believing in Sammy. And thank you for believing in one little boy who simply wanted to help his best friend. With love, Sammy and family.