URGENT UPDATE: A U.S. Army and Marine veteran, Hank Ford, credits his service dog, a yellow Labrador named Tommy, with saving his life after the canine alerted him to a serious medical issue. In a dramatic turn of events in February 2023, Tommy’s actions led Ford to seek immediate medical attention for an irregular heartbeat that could have resulted in a stroke.
Ford, who resides in Colorado and suffers from PTSD, describes the moment as life-altering. “Tommy was hitting me in the chest,” Ford recounted. “He wasn’t coming up to my face. He was literally hitting me in the chest.” This unusual behavior prompted Ford to realize that something was wrong, pushing him to visit the hospital.
Upon arrival, doctors confirmed he was experiencing a rapid, irregular heartbeat. They emphasized that if it weren’t for Tommy’s timely intervention, he may not have survived, stating he could have suffered a massive stroke had he remained asleep.
“A lot of veterans won’t get a dog because they think people look at you different when you’re walking through a store. But a dog makes a huge difference,” Ford explained.
Tommy has not only provided Ford with companionship but has also drastically improved his quality of life. Ford noted a significant change in his well-being, describing it as “night and day.” Friends and family have observed the transformation, remarking on how different he is since Tommy became part of his life.
Ford passionately highlights the importance of service dogs for veterans, stating, “Everybody always talks about, you know, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. It was a dark spot. He turned the lights on.” His story is a powerful reminder of the bond between humans and their service animals, showcasing how these dogs can be lifesavers in moments of crisis.
This urgent incident sheds light on the critical role service dogs play in the lives of veterans, particularly those struggling with mental health challenges. As awareness grows, more veterans may consider the life-changing benefits of having a service dog like Tommy.
Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring story and its impact on the conversation surrounding veterans and service animals.
