UPDATE: A U.S. Army and Marine veteran from Colorado is crediting his service dog, a yellow Labrador named Tommy, with saving his life during a critical medical incident. In a dramatic turn of events this past February, Tommy alerted veteran Hank Ford to a serious health issue—an irregular heartbeat—that could have led to a stroke.
This heart-stopping moment unfolded early one morning when Tommy, normally waking Ford at 7:00 a.m., sensed something was wrong and instead began hitting his master in the chest. “He wasn’t coming up to my face. He was literally hitting me in the chest,” Ford recalled. This urgent behavior prompted Ford to seek medical attention, where doctors confirmed he was experiencing a dangerously rapid heartbeat.
Had it not been for Tommy’s timely intervention, Ford might not have woken up. Medical professionals evaluated the situation and indicated the consequences could have been dire, potentially resulting in a massive stroke. “If Tommy had not acted as he did, I may not have woken up,” Ford stated, highlighting the life-saving role his service dog played.
Ford, who battles PTSD, has seen a remarkable change in his life since bringing Tommy into his home. “It was like night and day,” he expressed, noting the profound impact the dog has had on his confidence and well-being. “Everybody that knows me can’t believe the difference in me,” he added, underscoring the emotional and psychological benefits of having a service animal.
Despite the stigma some veterans associate with having a service dog, Ford advocates for their life-changing potential. “A lot of veterans won’t get a dog because they think people look at you differently when you’re walking through a store. But a dog makes a huge difference,” he explained.
Ford’s story resonates deeply with many veterans facing similar challenges, emphasizing that there is always hope and light at the end of the tunnel. “He turned the lights on,” he said, referring to Tommy’s unwavering support during his darkest days.
As the conversation around mental health and the role of service animals continues to grow, Ford’s experience serves as a powerful reminder of the bond between humans and their canine companions. More veterans may need to consider how a service dog could transform their lives, just as it has for Ford.
Stay tuned for further updates on this inspiring story, as it highlights not only the critical role of service dogs but also the ongoing need for support and awareness for veterans struggling with mental health issues.
