Ari Y., 69, Seattle, WA

Ari Yoder, 69, recently had her wish for a service dog granted.  Several years ago, Yoder’s beloved service dog, Sammy, became ill and had to be euthanized at the age of nine.  In addition to being her service dog, Sammy was also trained as a therapy dog and they held regular pet therapy sessions at a local drug treatment facility. His death left her heartbroken and she could not replace him for several years. Yoder recently realized that she misses the constant companionship of a dog, as well as the volunteer work that the two of them did together.  But, because she lives on a fixed income, she could not afford the start-up costs associated with adopting a dog.

She submitted an application to Twilight Wish Foundation, asking for assistance with the costs associated with adopting a dog such as adoption fees, immunizations, and supplies.  Twilight Wish accepted her wish application and worked hard to raise the funds to cover Yoder’s adoption expenses.  Many groups and individuals were also touched by her story on Facebook and the Twilight Wish website and donated generously.  Happily, Yoder found Danny, a six-year-old Golden Labrador, at a local shelter, and adopted him on Thursday, March 22, 2013.

Yoder has been active in community service since she was in high school, including volunteering with the Peace Corps in Micronesia and serving as a disaster specialist for the American Red Cross for several years.  She currently volunteers for the West Seattle Senior Center as a thrift shop cashier and in their computer lab, teaching computer skills to other seniors. Yoder plans to train Danny to be a therapy dog and continue giving back to the community.

“This lovely dog has brought unconditional love and companionship into my life,” said Yoder. “In just over two weeks, he has changed my life.  Thank you, thank you, Twilight Wish!”