This fundraiser is to assist Lucy and Bobby Bodden as they work with doctors and physical therapists to bring Louie back to the physical condition he was in before his 145-day ordeal. Louie's mental recovery is something they will struggle for much longer and can only be helped with lots of prayers, love and the continued support of family and friends.

Those in the Sunnyside, Woodside, Jackson Heights and Corona communities may be familiar with this heart-wrenching story. Louie was stolen from outside his house, a few short steps from his backyard, in October 2022. At the time of his theft, Louie suffered from strokes however he had the full use of his body and was by all accounts a happy fur baby much loved by his family as evident in his demeanor.

Lucy and many of our neighbors posted on street corners and on Facebook pleading for his return, and a reward was offered. While Lucy and Bobby received many heartfelt prayers unfortunately others took the opportunity to harass and torture them by providing false claims and promises of Louie's returns. It is hard enough losing your most precious loved one than to be subjected time and time again to emotional assaults. Not knowing where Louie was, if he was being given the care, love and nurturing he needed tore a hole in the hearts of the family.

In March after 145 days of capture, Louie was returned. Yes, an answer to prayers and we are thankful to God. He was put in Lucy's hands nearly lifeless, and dirty and showed no outward responses. In his pain, he appeared to have given up on everything. He barely could move his hind legs and did not give eye contact. He was not eating or drinking. The affectionate fur baby is now a ghost of his former self.

Lucy has spent many days at the vet getting Louie IV treatment for severe dehydration. He is due to undergo further testing and treatment which had to be postponed due to the severity of his skin condition and other ailments. The vets could not put him under the trauma of additional testing. He needs physical therapy to regain the mobility of his legs. We cannot verify but it appears that he must have been kept somewhere that did not allow him full mobility. No person, animal or child should ever be subjected to this.

Lucy has invested in our community and spent countless days and hours helping those in need throughout the epidemic and continues to do so daily. Please help Lucy and her family during their time of need and help support them through this battle to bring Louie back.