Ethan and Leo, a Love Story
Charity Influencer: Lori Griffith
In the spirit of February, when we celebrate love in all its beautiful forms, the story of Ethan and Leo stands out as a testament to what happens when a community wraps a family in love and support. This is a story of a little boy with a complex medical journey, a remarkable rescue dog, and the incredible partnership that changed their lives.
Ethan needed a companion who could offer not just friendship, but a true lifeline.
Ethan is one of Chasin A Dream Foundation’s bravest warriors. Diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot, a rare and complex heart condition, he has faced more medical hurdles in his young life than many do in a lifetime. His family has stood by him through open heart surgeries, cranial procedures, and the challenges of Autism, but they haven’t walked this path alone. In the heart of our community, the Chasin A Dream Foundation has always been about love in action. As we step into February, a month known for celebrating all forms of love, we’re honored to share a story that embodies the kind of love that transforms lives. This is the story of Ethan and his service dog, Leo. From the very start, Ethan’s journey was full of challenges that would test any family’s strength, but with the unwavering support of Chasin A Dream and his family, it became clear that Ethan needed a companion who could offer not just friendship, but a true lifeline.
The journey to find Ethan’s perfect companion began with a call to Carrie MonteLeon of Alpha Dog Training. Executive Director Lori Griffith from Chasin A Dream explained that they needed a dog not just for companionship, but one who could be trained to alert the family if Ethan’s oxygen or heart rate dipped. They turned to Jason Gluck with Furry Friends, and that’s where they found Leo, a lovable dog who seemed to know from the start that he was meant to be Ethan’s guardian. Leo was a rescue dog with an unknown past, but a heart ready to bond. When Ethan’s family and Carrie MonteLeon visited Furry Friends, it was Leo who chose Ethan. From the moment they met, it was as if Leo knew he had found his person. He became not just a service animal in training, but a source of calm, security, and an irreplaceable friend. Leo’s bond with Ethan was immediate and undeniable. The moment they met, Leo gravitated to Ethan, as if he understood his new role.
Under Alpha Dog Training’s guidance, Leo’s training began. He learned to recognize the subtle signs of Ethan’s medical needs, becoming a steadfast protector and friend. With Leo by his side, Ethan could face the world with a newfound sense of security. Trips that were once daunting became adventures, and moments that might have been overwhelming turned into celebrations of progress. Today, Ethan and Leo’s story is one of true partnership.
Leo has already alerted the family to Ethan’s needs multiple times, helping them intervene before a situation could become critical. From the moment Leo joined their family, life began to change in remarkable ways. Physically, Leo has already proven to be a lifesaver. Even while still in training, he’s alerted the family when Ethan’s oxygen dropped or when he was in distress. Recently, when Ethan was unusually tired, it was Leo’s insistent barking and pacing that made them check his vitals. They found his oxygen low and his heart rate off, and they were able to help him before it became serious. These alerts have been life-changing, offering a safety net the family never had before. Emotionally, Leo has become Ethan’s anchor. With Leo by his side, Ethan is calmer and more confident. He now asks for Leo when he needs comfort, and Leo is learning to respond to Ethan’s cues. At a recent holiday parade, what could have been an overwhelming experience turned into a joyful outing because Leo was there to keep Ethan feeling safe. Leo’s presence has touched the whole family. Ethan’s siblings adore him, his sister even reads bedtime stories to Leo while he rests his head in her lap. It’s hard for them to imagine life without him now. He’s not just a service dog; he’s family. And for Ethan, he’s a lifeline to a more stable, joyful life.
In this month of love, Ethan and Leo’s story is a shining example of how a community’s dedication can transform lives. It’s a love story of health, hope, and the incredible bond between a boy and his dog.
Ethan and Leo will make a special appearance on the runway at the Chasin A Dream Foundation Gala on March 5, 2026, at the Pelican Club. To get tickets, explore sponsorship opportunities, and follow Ethan’s journey, visit chasinadream.org
