In 2017, Jorel made a plan to end his life

He served on the U.S. Coast Guard search and rescue unit for 11 years, and the memories of those lost haunted him. PTSD took over his life. "When you're in that mental state, the hole is dark and deep," Jorel said. On what he believed to be his last day, hope came in the form of a Firehouse Subs soda cup. It was advertising K9s For Warriors — Service Dogs for veterans with PTSD. It was decided. He would give them a call, and if someone picked up, he would not go through with his plan. One last shot. That was five years ago. In 2019, he was paired with a black lab rescue named Betsy, and life has never looked the same. Betsy now works on the production line by Jorel’s side at Oshkosh Defense. Jorel says he was saved by Betsy and a cup. “I can 100% say that I would not be here had I not seen that cup."

Without this group, the above story could have had a much different ending. K9s For Warriors is a non-profit organization and is the highest rated veteran service dog organization in the nation. We are a proud supporter but we need your help. Please consider donating to this great organization. Your donation saves two lives- a veteran and a dog. Go HERE to help.