Patriot story: Elizabeth + Lilo (Beth will write)

Adoption date: June 2020 Pet details: Five year-old Pit Bull Terrier/Labrador Retriever mix with low grade mast cell tumor (removed) Branch of service: Navy veteran Location: Virginia Beach Shelter and link to webpage: VBSPCA  

A little about me
	I got Lilo six months before I separted from the US Navy so I could attend an accelerated BSN program.
My military experiences
	I served in the Navy as a Hospital Corpsman Second Class from May 2015-January 2021. I worked overseas in the Emergency Department in Sigonella, Sicily. After that, I transferred to a Guided Missile Cruiser, the USS Normandy, stationed in Norfolk, VA. I completed two back-to-back deployments in 2018 and 2019-2020.
My most memorable experience from my time in service
	My most memorable experience was the day that a Koren merchant ship the Normandy was in vincinity of sent out a distress call because they needed to medevac a patient with a severe head wound, but they didn't have the capabilities to do so, we responded to the call and I got my first and only helicopter ride. It was nighttime and really windy, the full moon lit everything up so we could see and the pilots were skilled enough to pull the patient up in a liter safely. He was transported five hours away to the Djobuti to receive treatment. He ended up living after that because the helo and I were able to respond so quickly.
Why I chose to adopt a pet
	I chose to adopt Lilo because I have always loved dogs and I wanted to be able to have a companion and rescue a pet that was unwanted so I could love on them.
Why I chose to adopt through Pets for Patriots
	I found out about the program from the SPCA.
How my adopted pet has changed my life
	She has helped my anxiety a lot. Lilo is such a happy dog and seeing her smile makes me smile. She loves to play with me, is a huge cuddler and loves to go on adventures. She's the perfect dog for traveling and seeing her happy makes me happy. When I'm sad, she's right there, cuddling me and trying to give me kisses. I love coming home and seeing her sweet face.
What I love most about my new pet friend
	I love that she lets me dress her up in little dog clothes and a birthday hat. She loves to go on walks and play in the dog park. She also loves going to the beach with me and bitting at the wave. She is always down to take a long nap.
What I would tell other veterans who might be thinking about adopting through Pets for Patriots
	Adopting a dog has changed my life for the better. Having a sweetie like Lilo has given me a reason to get up and smile every day.