This is the story of two friends, Crystal and Jodey, who live in neighboring apartments within one of our target zip codes. We first met Jodey at our outreach event hosted at The Lord’s Kitchen, a nonprofit that has served our community for over 30 years. Jodey, who is wheelchair-bound after a life-changing accident years ago, attended the event to receive pet food and toys for his dog, Girlfriend. When invited to participate in our first Focus Group session, Jodey asked if his neighbor, Crystal, could join him. Crystal owns a cat named Nana, and the two friends share a deep bond as neighbors and pet owners.
A humorous misunderstanding broke the ice early on—when Jodey asked if he could bring Girlfriend to the session, we assumed he meant a partner, not his beloved dog!
As the Focus Group approached, Jodey requested transportation, as neither he nor Crystal could get there independently. Crystal’s mobility was limited due to a severe leg injury that required extensive bandaging, and Jodey’s wheelchair presented additional challenges. We provided a ride for both, ensuring they could fully participate. Their insights during the session were invaluable, and the connection we formed marked the beginning of a meaningful relationship.
Ongoing Support Through Hardship
In the following months, both Jodey and Crystal faced significant medical setbacks. Crystal was hospitalized for much of June, and her neighbors cared for Nana while she recovered. At the same time, Jodey underwent a foot amputation due to complications from his earlier accident. During this difficult period, neither was able to fully care for their pets or each other.
Thanks to the support of the Petsmart Incubator Grant, Pets4Life Louisville was able to step in. We ensured that Girlfriend and Nana had food and supplies, even delivering them directly to their doors. One delivery included a cheerful yellow collar with a bell for Nana, a small gesture that deepened our growing bond with Crystal and Jodey.
By July, Crystal had regained some mobility. When we delivered a 30-pound bag of dog food, we watched with joy as she carried it upstairs for Jodey, calling it her “real-life physical therapy.” This moment symbolized her determination and resilience as she worked to recover while supporting her friend and his dog.
A New Mission: Caring for a Feline Family
During one visit, Crystal told us about a neighborhood cat she had been caring for, who had recently given birth to her third litter. Crystal shared updates on the kittens’ progress and, after consulting with our team, agreed it was time to spay the mother cat to prevent further litters. With Crystal’s help, we transported the feline family to the local shelter, where the kittens were vetted and adopted, and the mother cat was spayed and placed for adoption.
Crystal’s knowledge and compassion shone again in the fall when she rescued an abandoned kitten from a nearby alley. She contacted us immediately, and we ensured the kitten received vaccinations and found a loving home.
Facing New Challenges Together
As summer turned to winter, Jodey had to move, and Girlfriend found a new home—with Crystal. Pets4Life continued to support them, providing pet food and treatments during a recent severe winter storm. Crystal’s enduring kindness and dedication to animals have been an inspiration to our team. Her trust in Pets4Life has transformed our relationship from a service provider to a partner in her stewardship of pets in her community.
Crystal shared her gratitude with us, saying:
“They are angels. Without this program, my dog, Girlfriend, and my cat, Nana, would not be with me today. When I had open-heart surgery, Jen made sure my babies had what they needed so I wouldn’t have to worry. If I need anything for my babies, all I have to do is call, and within 24 hours, I have it. Pets4Life is amazing—the best program I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. Thank you, Ms. Jenn, Emma, and the boss lady—you ladies are my angels with wings.”
The Impact of Petsmart Charities
Stories like Crystal and Jodey’s exemplify the personalized, compassionate outreach Pets4Life Louisville has been able to provide as a recipient of the Petsmart Incubator Grant. This vital support allowed us to respond directly to the needs of these two neighbors, ensuring their pets remained cared for through every challenge. Together, we’re not just helping pets—we’re building trust, strengthening community connections, and creating lasting change.