James "Kimo" Rosen is a retired professional photographer and amongst things is a satirist. Rosen currently resides on the tropical island of Kaua'i. |
I had 15 wonderful years with my service dog by my side. We went everywhere together and never missed a sunrise.
We went on the bus, some of her favorite places were Costco, Panda Express, and Micky D's. I think maybe because she learned that from me.
I am blessed to have had such a loyal and loving friend. I still go on our daily walks without her just to keep a routine. It feels naked on my walks without the leash dangling off my left
wrist and bending to pick up her business in the special designer plastic bags.
wrist and bending to pick up her business in the special designer plastic bags.
I miss sharing meals with her, I miss her checking on me when I take too long in the restroom. I miss her riding in the basket on my bike and co-piloting.
I bought a roasted chicken
the other night for $5.00 Fridays at Safeway, one of her favorites and it just didn't taste so great without her.
the other night for $5.00 Fridays at Safeway, one of her favorites and it just didn't taste so great without her.
When we first encountered each other at the Kauai Humane Society fifteen years ago, I took the basket off my bike
and brought it into the different puppy cages to see if any dog would walk into the basket and stay. She was the only one that climbed into the basket and stayed, and as often happens this puppy adopted me.
and brought it into the different puppy cages to see if any dog would walk into the basket and stay. She was the only one that climbed into the basket and stayed, and as often happens this puppy adopted me.
I had her to many
veterinarians the last month hoping for a different diagnosis, however, her kidneys and liver had both failed and with many tumors and a chronic disease it was time.
veterinarians the last month hoping for a different diagnosis, however, her kidneys and liver had both failed and with many tumors and a chronic disease it was time.
The hardest thing I ever did. I needed to go to the Humane Society even though I was working with three other caring vets, only because
the Humane Society was where she adopted me and I rescued her. They call it the Humane Society for a reason they really treated us special, very humanely. Plus it was full circle...
the Humane Society was where she adopted me and I rescued her. They call it the Humane Society for a reason they really treated us special, very humanely. Plus it was full circle...
It was the vet's last day,
she invited us to a private appointment, consoled me as a psychiatrist would, and reassured me I was doing the right thing.
she invited us to a private appointment, consoled me as a psychiatrist would, and reassured me I was doing the right thing.
Just seconds before my sweet dog was euthanized I gave her chocolate-covered Kirkland almonds. Dogs love chocolate but can be deadly.
... And then the stress and pain disappeared from her face, she looked at peace.
Always in my heart. I miss her so... I love you Ivanka. "Boms" Obama
Rest in Love and peace.
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A shortened version of this appeared in the 05-03-23 edition of the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. They were kind enough to send me a link to the letter since like many newspapers these days they have a paywall. This is the 150-word version of the original 388-word blog...
And on Saturday 05-06-23 this blog appeared
in full as a Letter to the editor in the Garden Island News!
Hana Hou!(Encore)
48 comments:
She is still with you Kimo and always will be. She's a part of your heart.
RIP
Her memory is a blessing - their lives are so short ๐๐ป๐๐ถ
A well written tribute. It was an honor to read. Thank you for sharing all the wonderful photos. ๐๐พ๐พ๐
Beautiful tribute
Very loving and beautiful. Thank you for sharing. Great pictures. ๐
Well. That made me burst into tears. ((hugs))
I am so sorry to hear about your beautiful Ivanka Obama... ๐ I know you have many years of beautiful memories with her and I hope those memories will give you some peace and the ability to smile when you think of her. ❤️๐
I am so sorry to hear about Boms, Kimo. Coincidentally, she died same time as my boyfriend, Robert's dog, Jubie, who will be euthanized tomorrow for irreversible kidney disease if he even makes it till tomorrow. Also, coincidentally, he is is the same age as Boms. I sent Robert your picture about a dog's only fault. How true that is. I remember you describing Obama back when you first got her. It only seems like a few years ago. Sending lots of love. Spite all the sadness, Obama/Ivanka leaves you with lots of love.
Jubie is so far gone, Robert is driving him right now to be euthanized. It couldn't wait until tomorrow.
What a beautiful tribute to your precious girl! May she rest in peace ❤️❤️
"Just an iconic classic photo of your Pal for life: Ivanka! She’s in COSTCO Heaven smiling and wagging her tail right now!"๐
Great read. Wonderful tribute. I’m still trying to hold back my tears. Saddened by your loss. My deepest sympathies Kimo. ๐๐๐พ
❤️๐ญ
I am so sorry, know exactly what you’re feeling. Been there many times before and it never gets easy. Please take care…
Very sorry for your big loss! It’s very nice tribute to your friend ๐ ๐ฅฒ
What a great friend! And you gave her a great home! I’m blessed to know you both !
My heart is still breaking. Such beautiful times you both shared. She was certainly unique, special, and a rockstar. She will watch over you for life.
What a beautiful tribute you wrote. And I absolutely love every picture. Each photo truly captures a life well lived. Such special eternal love shared between your two souls from the day you met. Dog❤️❤️Human. I'm singing๐ถLife is brief and then it's gone but love goes on and on.❤️❤️
I never met you or Ivanka/Obama, but followed your posts for years and loved you both a lot. Cried when I read the tribute to your soulmate. That is how all dogs should live. Thank you for letting me on your journeys. I'm Carol's auntie. Lost my dog last year and now have a 20 yr old cat rescued by Carol.
OBAMA U ARE TRULY MISS RIP -HUGS!
Such a beautiful tribute Kimo. Obama will be missed.. she was a sweetheart
Your tribute to Ivanka was beautiful you both had many happy years together. It's too bad they can't stay with us forever. Love you, Jimmy
LeeAnne, I'll never forget the day you and Brian Devos rescued "Boms from that Pitbull attack! I believe I had many added years with her because of you guys! Mahalo Nui
she was the best i wont forget her i was .always was thinking when i will see you guys around again she was so sweet .and kind just like you uncle .god will bless you .i believe .๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ Amen
I think he had to put down elvis to because he did the same couple different times
She will always be with you Kimo, maybe not by your side but in your heart! ๐๐
As Kaos is with you and Mike!
I wish I was home so I could give you a hug! ๐ค. We will never forget the card and statue you gave us when we lost our boy!
So sorry to hear Jim. I also lost my dog this last year and know how attached we get to them. Lots of wonderful memories will be left when the sharp pain of loss subsides.
So sorry for your loss
Kimo - I loved seeing all the awesome photos you took throughout the years - of your faithful friend Ivanka! (What a cute Puppy she was!) I really do know what you’re going through because two of my best friends in life - were my Pet Dogs: Bunkie and Sheena. (Both lived to be 16 years!) To me, they weren’t just dogs - but, they were a part of my Family - just as Ivanka is to you!
Take care Bruddah Kimo…
Angie Haluapo
So sorry for the loss of your precious girl. You gave her such a great life❤️❤️❤️
Reply5d
Jacob Isaac
I’m really sorry for your loss buddy. ๐ข I know the pain well. She’s in heaven now, and my Charlie and Bruce are showing her were all the best snackie spots and nap spots are I’m sure.
Reply5dEdited
John Mancini
Those of us fortunate enough to love and be loved by animals know the joy, humor and comfort they bring to our lives. Very sad to read of your loss.
Reply5d
Tabe Aulikki Slioor Knight
I’m so very sorry for your loss. It’s heartbreaking when they leave. My heart goes out to you.
May be an image of dog and text
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Apryl Worthington
Sorry for your loss๐ช
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Judith Whitehead
So sorry to hear your sad news… I know she was your special companion ๐๐ป๐
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Annie Sims
Sorry to hear your best friend pass my baby girl sweetie pie pass away too it hurts so bad so lost a companion for so long. She’s still in my place I just can’t let go. ๐ข๐ข๐ข
May be an image of text that says 'No Long byMy My Side but ุด inMy Forever Heard'
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Janet Weller Maslow
So sorry for your loss Jimmy. Sending Love ❤️
Teri Young
So, so sorry. Losing your friend is the hardest. May she RIL... until you see her again.๐๐๐
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Adam Wojak
Kimo I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. She was so awesome. ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ
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Jason Gross
Oh-no...Unky I am so sorry. She was an awesome friend and companion. My sincerest condolences. May her memory always be a blessing.
Reply5dEdited
Joann Brech
WOW U HAD GRT TIMME WITH UR BEST FRND SHE WILL BE MISSED I.M GOING 2 MISS HEARING HER AROUND SHE WAS THE LOVE OF UR LIFE U WERE THE BEST FRND SHE COULD HV SHE WILL BE MISS IF I. CAN DO ANYTHING LET ME KNOW LV JOJO OBAMA U WILL BE DEARLY MISS BUT NO MORR PAIN ALOHA ๐ ๐ข FLY WITH THE ANGELS NT JOJO
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Linda Meyers
Oh, Jim I am so sorry to hear that. ((hugs))
Reply5d
Helena Tanner Wooden Cooney
So sorry. Never saw you apart. Grieve in your time
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Suzanne Kneubuhl
Oh Kimo, I am so sorry. I know how much you loved her. My Teddy is 15 years old and I will be devastated when he passes. Carrie still mourns Bubba. You were such a wonderful fur daddy so please think about blessing another sweet pup for the joy to have a loving home. Much love. Talofa lava. Suzie kneubuhl
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Deborah Anne
So very sorry
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Jack Yatsko
May Obama always be with you in spirit and memory. What an awesome dog who I enjoyed seeing very much.
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Medic Man
Oh Kimo. Im so sorry. I know how important yozr baby was. Are you ok? How are you doing? My thoughts and Prayers are for Peace and Comfort. ❤❤๐
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Jaana Makipaa
Oh no… I’m so sorry for your loss Kimo! Obama was such a special widdle girl!!! ๐ข๐
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Mimi Tolva
Oh no Jim. So sorry. ๐๐ฅฒ
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Michoel Goldman
My deepest condolences dear Jim. May G*d comfort you on your loss. You gave her the best life man's best friend could wish for and she was lucky to have you!
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I am so sorry Kimo, she was a sweetie. She is with her boyfriend now, he will be so happy she is there! Sending you love and hugs ❤️❤️
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Cali Gullion
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Ron Kalnitz
So sorry brother, I know how difficult it can be. I’ll be thinking of you both and sending happy thoughts. Ho’omaluhia..
Reply5d
Irina Briksa
Sorry to hear… so sad ๐
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Christine Muscarella Frost
So sorry to hear this. Sending love and sympathy to you, Jim.
Reply5d
Duane Roller
So sad to loose such devoted and loving friend.
Reply5d
Linda Willissa Fraticelli Silva
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Donna Gange
So sorry for your loss Kimo ๐๐๐
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Debra Jason
So sorry for the loss of your precious pup. Sending heartfelt condolences. ๐พ๐❤️
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Carrie Kneubuhl-Eckert
I was just thinking about your girl. I am heartbroken ๐ I can only imagine what ivanka meant to you. She was your constant loving companion ๐
Did you keep her ashes Jim? Can you send me your address please. You can PM me. I'm devastated for you.
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Carrie Kneubuhl-Eckert
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Carrie Kneubuhl-Eckert
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Louise Naomi Stahl
And thank you for sharing with us your loving companion and many of your adventures with her over these years.
Your hurting and gradually healing heart is so full.
Denise Thomson
Ooooo.so sorry….my condolences
Reply5d
Michael Kobayashi
Sorry to hear. It is a difficult time. My thoughts are with you.
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Pamela Varma
She was a wonderful companion to you, and you were to her.
Your love for each other will continue on always.
♥️��♥️��
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Rene Muraoka
So sorry for your loss. 15 years is a long time. I’m sure you Ivanka (Boms) Obama made a lot of happy memories together.♥️♥️♥️
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Sheri Catherine Naea Majewski
Aw. A good friend is so hard to come by and Obama was your constant companion. I'm sorry for your loss.
Reply4d
Rollin Simao
Sorry for your loss My Friend
Reply4d
Wynne Moss Abernathy
Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs. I am so very sorry for your loss.
��������
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Jeanine Ruman
I just love that little dog. She was such a model for your beautiful for photography. ������
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Carol Middleton
Heartbreaking news. Sending deepest condolences to you from me and Aika. You and Ivanka Obama enriched each other's lives deeply, and I'm sure you are missing her like crazy. We will always remember her. Rest in peace and love, Ivanka Obama... and give Dr. Scott Sims our finest regards. ❤
Reply4d
Niki Snyc
She was a lucky dog to be yours. Great adventures and memories. Great photo
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Melissa Leina'ala Haa Moniz
My condolences. Our pets are ohana too
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Nate Maslow
So sorry
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Linda Gross
Jimmy- my heart is breaking for your loss! I never got to meet her on person but I know she meant the world to you! She was a wonderful companion for you. May her memory be a blessing! ❤️
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Miwa Matsubayashi
I am so sorry to hear that. I hope you are ok.
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Ronald Ostroff
My most heartfelt condolences
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UlyssesMelinda Kontos
I Am so very sorry for your loss. She was a beautiful dog and a wonderful friend and companion for you ❤️ ♥️ ��
So very sorry ��
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Pauly Bee
Im so sorry Unk! You gave that dog her best life! Be sad, but be proud!
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Cheryl Eayrs Olstad
So very sorry to hear Jim.,. What a beautiful photo to remember her.
You will miss your dog friend I know .
Reply4dEdited
Susan Siegel
Jim, I met Obama when I visited. I’m so so sad that you lost this wonderful friend and companion. Thinking of you��
Reply4d
Francine Grace
Aww....so sorry to hear your baby has left your side Kimo. Gonna be weird to see you without your daughter. Ivanka Obama had the best life....right there by your side; or on your bike.
I've known her as long as I've known you.
Remenber we met way back when? At some Otsuka's Event and only knew of each other up til then as "eh, you the voice I always hear on KONG Radio all the time".
My deepest Condolences... as life will have a different feel without your fur baby.
Believe me, it's been almost a year and I still miss our PumaCat every single day.
Deepest Condolences to you. #RILOVEIvanka
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Francine Grace
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KipuKai Kualii
Prayers, Blessings & ALOHA!!!
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Rosemary Pahl-Palmer
So sorry to hear about Obama girl. Her sweet memories will continue...๐
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Beth Mesnekoff Marziale
So very sorry for your loss, Jim.
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Steven John MacVitie
Love and prayers for your loss Kimo☮️๐งก
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LeeAnne Nago
Oh man nnnnnnnnoooooooo.. you gave her a great long life rsst in paradise obama girl. Will miss you .sweet girl. ... prayers and condolences so sorry uncle
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LeeAnne Nago
I hope you get another beautiful dog like obama .for rememberence and the company
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Mary Rohlfing
I feel like I met her, I’m so sad!๐ข Great picture!
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Karen Janik
Jimmy I am so sorry God Bless her little soul. She was a beautiful pup. Prayers to you my friend
Reply3d
Emma Ladendecker
Love and
Blessings๐๐ฝ๐
Reply3d
James Kimo Rosen
Thank you everyone, I have tears in my eyes reading all your comments. They mean so much!❤️❤️❤️๐๐๐
May be an image of Indian paintbrush and grass
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Kali Macalino
I am so sorry Jim! She was your faithful companion. ๐
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Becca Rogers
I'm sorry sorry Uncle Kimo. We will miss seeing you with her at Safeway or just out and about. Prayer and love going out to you.
Reply2dEdited
Regina Carvalho
๐๐ผ❤️RIP Ivanka
Reply1d
1 hour ago
(Edited)
soooo sorry for the loss of your best friend
Respect1
3 hours ago
All dogs go to heaven...as they should. Rest in peace.
Respect1
4 hours ago
I feel your pain. Think about the good times. Memories are great. Take care.
Respect1
Beautiful tribute, brought tears to my eyes. I know how much you loved her from all the times she was mentioned on fb. ❤️
That's beautiful! (From Garden Island News letter)
I don’t know if it’ll get better. But rest assured she enjoyed you just as much. (From Garden Island Newsletter)
Beautiful article (From Garden Island News letter)
I am so sorry that your little pal crossed that rainbow bridge ๐. Jan sends his condolences & aloha too. I hope that in time, you’ll find another pup that will be your shadow. We can never replace them, but I know you have love to share. ๐พ๐พ๐๐ผ๐ค๐ผ (From the Garden Island News-Letter)
I'm sure she misses you too..๐(From the Garden Island News-Letter)
(my apologies as this became an “epistle”…)
I saved a copy of your article. It’s a truly beautiful tribute to Ivanka-Obama da dog. ๐พ๐พ ๐ฅฒ I know how awful it was to lose our dogs, & I know yours was more than a pet. You’ll need time to grieve for her, but I hope you’ll consider bringing another support dog into your home…WHEN you’re ready! I get that they can get to be expensive, but the emotional support they provide helps to keep folks “like us” in better balance, as well as taking our minds off the chronic stuff.
Today, I met our newest grand dog, Simba! Jarrett & Matt had a friend who needed a dog sitter. Jarrett, Matt & Mike live on 2 acres, close to the Gulf of Mexico. They’re near wooded areas & have herds of deer that come into their yard. So, when Simba’s family picked him up, they realized that Jarrett et al had the kind of home that Simba needed. The family was living in an apartment; Simba is 11months old, & had to be in a crate for 11hrs a day. ๐ Plus, they had just had their 2nd child! So, they called Jarrett back & asked if they would want to keep Simba. The guys all agreed & are now proud-pup-parents to their dog, Simba! (When they watch tv, so does he! He even alerted to his name when the guys were watching “Lion King” on TV! (“SIMBA!!”). John predicts that he’ll be the next “beer dog!” ๐คช(I’ll tell you about Mililani another time.) So, the guys brought Simba here to meet me & his cousin Miss Boots! Simba is a goofball full of puppy energy! His fur is puppy soft! Boots was playfully chasing & barking at him as he frolicked around the kitchen. They had Ava Bava for 11yrs before Simba, so they can handle his energy.
๐งI’m thinking…
Maybe when you are wanting a new roommate, his/her name might be The Donald or Melania๐คญ…OR…
Wait for it……
Rhonda Santis! ๐๐๐คฃ๐พ๐พ๐ด๐๐ผ
Aloha, dear friend!
My Heart Love GIF by LINE FRIENDS
Reply1d
James Kimo Rosen
Joann Brech Mahalo JoJo!❤️๐ค
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Marcos Gandia
๐ค๐ผ๐
GIF may contain applauding, yes, clap, clapping and Leonardo Di Caprio
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Rene Muraoka
Reply23h
Janie Quigley-Westerhout
You just gave me a wonderful idea ❤️
Reply23h
James Kimo Rosen
Janie Quigley-Westerhout Can I ask?๐ค
Reply23h
Janie Quigley-Westerhout
James Kimo Rosen Donate to Society in your name since I wasn’t here when she left! ❤️
Reply23h
Carrie Kneubuhl-Eckert
๐ญso sweet, they know how much a dogs love means to people like us that love our rescue babies. Kauai Humane Society. We love you and appreciate what you do for Kauai animals. Jim and I both had so many joyful years with our pups because of the work you do. Mahalo.
Reply22h
James Kimo Rosen
Carrie Kneubuhl-Eckert
Such a wonderful facility!❤️๐ค
Reply22h
Jeanine Ruman
What a wonderful letter James.
Reply20h
Melissa Frommer
Wonderful
Aww Cuteness GIF
Reply20h
Annie Sims
That’s so sweet letter I’m so speechless that a lot of us loves our best friend (pets) and some people don’t understand how it feels when they’re gone. I miss my baby girl sweetie deeply myself ๐ข๐ข๐ข.
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Reply16h
Linda Gross
What a lovely letter of acknowledgment!
Reply15h
Janet Weller Maslow
What a wonderful letter!!❤️
Reply14h
UlyssesMelinda Kontos
Perfect and beautiful!!
Reply9h
Alan Green
Nice going buddy
Reply7h
Susan Siegel
Wow
Reply7h
Renee Harden
How awesome that your article inspired people to donate in Ivanka/Obama’s name! I know she was the epitome of an emotional support dog; I am glad we got to meet her!
Reply2d
Rosemary Pahl-Palmer
No good deeds go undone.
Reply2d
Beth Amaro
❤️๐พ❤️
Reply7h
Melissa Frommer
Awww ๐ฅฐ that’s so special
Reply3h
Rosemary Pahl-Palmer
Ms. Obama would be so happy!๐
Reply2h
Niki Snyc
She had a great life
and blessed to have been yours
Reply27mEdited
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