Asia is just like any teenager. She likes hanging out with her friends and going to school, and she loves animals. But Asia has faced more challenges than most kids her age—she was diagnosed with kidney disease when she was just ten years old. After initial treatment and a failed transplant, Asia’s life revolved around weekly dialysis and, because of the treatment, Asia spent a lot of time alone in her room.
“It was boring.” Asia said, “All I could do was lay in bed.”
Wanting some company, Asia started asking her parents for a dog. After a bit of convincing, her mom, Melanie, started looking for the right fit. That’s when they found the Stink Bug Project. Through the program, they adopted their perfect dog—a sassy Chihuahua mix named Apollo.
Apollo’s impact on Asia was immediate. Just a few days after bringing Apollo home, Asia had a difficult dialysis. When she got home, she just wanted to lay in bed.
“Apollo could tell she wasn’t feeling good and just jumped up to be with her,” said Melanie. “He loves us, and we love him.”
In moments like that, Apollo gives Asia the exact support she needs—unconditional love, comfort, and companionship.
Since adopting Apollo, Asia was finally able to receive the transplant she needed, and her Stink Bug Dog was with her every step of the way, providing comfort and companionship through her healing process.
“This program has made a tremendous impact on Aisa. Apollo changed her smile, and now there’s laughter,” Melanie said, “It has been a long journey, and the stink bug project has been a big help.”
For National Dog Month, we would love to make more Stink Bug matches like Asia and Apollo happen! Help provide a furry friend for kids like Asia by making a gift to Rocky Mountain Children’s Health Foundation today. For kids like Asia, having a dog can change their outlook and provide a beacon of hope for them and their families. Melanie puts it best: “Thanks to the Stink Bug Project, Asia wants to be around and has a brighter outlook. She wants to live.”
Be part of the magic this month by making a gift to The Stink Bug Project. Let’s change lives together!