Mr. Washington was hospitalized for knee replacement surgery in early 2016. While he was recuperating, his wife was hospitalized with a blood clot that ultimately took her life on Valentine’s Day. Mr. Washington laid his beloved wife to rest on their wedding anniversary. In the lonely days that followed his wife’s death, his granddaughter gave him a little dog named Blackie to keep him company. Today, Mr. Washington lives alone with Blackie, surrounded by pictures of his wife. He talks constantly to his new furry companion, and she brings him much joy. The bond between Mr. Washington and Blackie fills their days with love and companionship, and the services Blackie receives through the TVMF PALS Program will keep their family together for years to come.