Support Calaeb's Legacy: 18 Dogs for 18 Years

Nearly 18 years ago I anxiously and excitedly awaited our sons' arrival. July 4th, 2006 was a day unlike any before, it was the day that I became a mommy. He was born perfect, all 9 lbs. 4 ounces of him. I pleaded with them not to take him to the nursery, we had only just met and yet my heart couldn't stand the thought of being apart from him even for a moment. Suddenly, my life made sense with him in it. He had a firecracker spirit. He walked, nearly sprinted, at 7 months, and never looked back. He was fast-paced and kind-hearted. He was adventurous and fearless. He was clever, suave, and funny. Oh, and he had a knack for pranks especially those that frightened me. With each year passing he came into his own a bit more, and yet he was always authentically vulnerably himself. He had the ability to see deep within the hearts of others. He was an ally, an advocate, but most importantly he was a friend to those who needed him.

The years have passed by in the blink of an eye. What I'm left with are snapshots of memories that play over and over like a flipbook in my mind. I dreamed of this day, his 18th birthday. I took his goals, dreams, interests and watched the various next chapters play out in my mind. I envisioned him dressed in military fatigues seeing out his military aspirations. I dreamt of him dj'ing to a live rambunctious audience sharing his story through lyrics he'd written. I foresaw him pursuing a coding degree and raising a family with a loyal german shepherd. Never could I have imagined his story ending prematurely.

Four years ago our dreams of his future and his limitless possibilites were shattered. As we struggled to pick up the pieces we saw the opportunity to create a future with him and to honor his legacy. In 2021 Calaeb's Canines was born. It is an event that allows us to celebrate Calaeb and honor his love of animal rescue. Each year we sponsor the adoption fees of the number of dogs equivalent to the age he is turning. This year is a momentous milestone as he will be 18 years old. That means 18 dogs will be adoptable at no cost to their new owners. As this year comes to a close we are so proud to share that through Calaebs love and legacy 66 dogs will have found their forever homes.

To those that have supported our journey since the start and those that have just joined us, thank you. Without you this dream could not have been a reality. You have helped us create a future with Calaeb. You supported his dream of a world where animals find the loving homes they deserve. And you inspired kindness, one of Calaeb's core values. We are so incredibly grateful to each of you for helping us continue Calaeb's legacy of love.