Touch Down in Danbury! Hundreds Welcome Leah!

 

Hundreds of Connecticut residents, many of whom hailed from Newtown, were staring up at the sky in Danbury early last evening. It wasn’t a shooting star these area residents were awaiting. It was a plane carrying a very special Golden Retriever.

All present had something very special in common -they were friends of the every-so-comforting K-9 Addie. This beautiful Golden Retriever was one of the first responders after the tragedy in Sandy Hook, she is a companion to many of the elderly in area nursing homes, and a familiar face at local libraries. Last night, she met her Comfort Dog companion, Leah, for the very first time. 

“We can’t welcome a new dog without a party,” exclaimed Jen Marr, coordinator of the Comfort Dog ministry at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School, part of Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog program.

And a party it was - complete with doggie balloons, K-9 drawings from Sandy Hook students, and raffle prizes. There was pizza, salad, Italian ices, and cake courtesy of the Fire Engine Pizza Company.

What's dog party without dogs? Comfort Dogs from around the country traveled to Danbury to welcome their new furry friend and offer their unconditional love and camaraderie to all party goers. 

Marr said, “I haven’t had this much fun since my wedding. I really mean that!”

Two lucky attendees, both Sandy Hook students, Paige Tarpey and Aleigha Procaccini were selected to assist in the Leah’s warm welcome. Paige had the honor of riding the plane with Leah and Aleigha served as Leah’s handler for the evening.

Just prior 7:30 pm, the sound of a propeller and plane engine caused squeals of excitement among all present.

The plane finally landed and there she was in all of her golden glory - Leah.

The children ran up to her with glee! Hugs, kisses, and never-ending pets ensued. It was truly all hands on Leah (and she seemed to enjoy every minute of it).

To learn more about the Comfort Dog Ministry at Immanuel Lutheran Church, click here.

Follow Addie and Leah on Facebook here.

 

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Submitted by Ridgefield, CT

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