On May 14, 2025, the gymnasium at St. Louise de Marillac School in Pittsburgh transformed into a space of inspiration, resilience, and compassion.
Over 250 students gathered for a powerful presentation hosted by Life Changing Service Dogs For Veterans (LCSDFV)—a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing highly trained medical service dogs for veterans and first responders at no cost.
This memorable event didn’t just educate; it stirred hearts and ignited community spirit.
Tom Anderson, a dedicated representative of LCSDFV, opened the assembly with a heartfelt introduction to the organization’s mission. LCSDFV partners with Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs to provide veterans and first responders who have PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, or mobility impairments with service dogs that can detect and respond to medical emergencies.
Anderson emphasized that these animals are more than just companions—they’re life-saving medical allies trained to support those who’ve sacrificed for our safety.
The highlight of the day was a deeply moving presentation by retired United States Marine Corps Master Sergeant Craig Hodgkins and his long-haired German Shepherd Foxy. Craig shared his personal story, detailing his battles with nerve damage, severe vertigo, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—invisible wounds that significantly impact his daily life.
Throughout his speech, Foxy stood by his side, watchful and alert. Then, a remarkable moment unfolded: Foxy detected a medical episode in real time, prompting Craig to drop to one knee calmly, a trained action to prevent injury. As the room fell silent, Craig continued to speak, using the incident as a real-world example of the incredible capabilities of service dogs.
“Foxy knows what’s happening in my body even before I do,” Craig told the students, demonstrating the silent bond between service dog and veteran.
After Craig’s powerful demonstration, students eagerly asked questions ranging from Foxy’s birthday to how she senses nightmares. Craig answered every inquiry with warmth and honesty, turning curiosity into connection.
Nervous in front of her peers, Emerson found support as Craig and Foxy joined her onstage. Their presence steadied her nerves and encouraged her to speak about her motivation: gratitude for veterans, love for animals, and the desire to give back. Her bravery moved the room.
To thank the students, Craig handed out a special token: baseball-style trading cards featuring Foxy, complete with her stats and service highlights. These keepsakes quickly became prized possessions among the students and an educational and emotional reminder of the day’s lesson.
As the event closed, the students stood together and delivered a heartfelt “Thank you for your service.” Teachers were equally moved, and one even expressed interest in volunteering for the organization.
While LCSDFV is best known for pairing veterans with service dogs, school assemblies like this highlight another equally critical mission: inspiring the next generation to lead with empathy, give generously, and recognize the heroes among them.
From real-time medical alerts to student-led fundraising, the event demonstrated the life-changing impact of service dogs and how even the youngest citizens can contribute meaningfully to veteran support efforts.
At the heart of it all was Foxy: calm, loyal, and alert, reminding every student that heroes come in all shapes, sizes, and species.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or community member, you can make a difference:
