For Danielle Tate and her faithful companion, Valentine, it was love at first sight.
"I got sick about six years ago and unfortunately it’s a very new illness so there's not a lot of treatment, not a lot of things they can do," Tate said.
But there was something Valentine could do. Danielle suffers from dysautonomia, a condition that can cause her to pass out at any moment.
"They say they can smell the chemical changes in the body," Tate said.
Life changed for Danielle five years ago on Valentine’s Day when she welcomed Valentine into her life. The pup now watches over Danielle, warning her if an attack is coming.
"If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't be able to work, I wouldn't be able to go to school, I wouldn't be able to live on my own," Tate said.
But now it's Valentine who needs Danielle.
"She's always made sure that I was OK, and I feel so guilty that she's sick," Tate said. "I feel like there's nothing I can do about it."
Valentine was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. The vet says her heart is getting bigger and will eventually kill her without expensive treatment or surgery.
But Danielle is hoping with the community’s help the two can continue to save each other and hopefully celebrate a few more Valentine’s Days together.
If you would like to donate to Valentine’s medical bills, click on the link here.
