This past weekend, we attended Cars and Crafts, a fun event hosted by my dad’s union! My mom and I had a table set up where she sold her beautiful hand-painted artwork and handmade greeting cards. Every dollar earned went straight toward funding Maeve, Kay’s future diabetic alert dog!
There was a great turnout, with plenty of other booths featuring homemade items and baked goods—I even picked up a few things myself to support fellow vendors. One of the trainers from Diabetic Alert Dogs of America stopped by, bringing Maeve along with another incredible dog-in-training named Ranger. Ranger is just about to graduate from scent training and will head to his new home in Florida in about a month—so exciting!
We even had a funny and heartwarming moment when Ranger suddenly alerted to a friend of ours at the event. She’s not diabetic but does experience occasional low blood sugar. Sure enough, Ranger walked right up to her and wouldn’t stop pawing! The trainer asked if she might be diabetic—it was such a powerful reminder of how well-trained and intuitive these dogs are. Go, Ranger!
One of the highlights of the day was introducing Maeve to my dad, who couldn’t meet her the first time because of work. It was also special to share Maeve with everyone who stopped by—many of whom had donated to her fund. It felt so meaningful to show them exactly what their support is going toward. Both Maeve and Ranger were happy to greet everyone, and even though petting service dogs is usually off-limits, Saturday was a special occasion.
Getting to spend that time with Maeve—despite the busy and slightly chaotic setting—meant the world to me. I’m so grateful to have found a local place that encourages me to visit her as often as I’d like, so we can build a bond before she officially joins our family in just a few months.
My heart was so full that morning. I’m eternally grateful.