Eleven-year-old Bella is in the fifth grade. Her best friend is a Great Dane named George who weighs 131 pounds. He has changed her life in the best way possible.
When Bella was just 2 1/2 years old, the little girl from Ipswitch, MA, was diagnosed with Morquio syndrome. This is a very rare genetic disease that attacks the bones, shortens life span, and results in a wide array of health problems. For most of her life, Bella couldn't walk on her own and relied solely on crutches or a wheelchair. But in 2015, everything changed.
Bella and her mom, Rachel, visited the Service Dog Project to find a canine companion for Bella — one that could make life a little easier for Bella and her family. While most of the dogs ignored Bella's glances and paid little attention to her, there was George — interested, curious, gentle, and attentive. It was clear the two shared a special bond, and that George would be going home with them that day.
Ever since George and Bella have met, something incredible has taken place — and their story is quickly going viral.
Read on to meet these two wonderful friends…
In February 2007, Bella's doctor sent her to a geneticist for poor growth. At the age of 2 1/2, Bella was diagnosed with Morquio syndrome — a progressively degenerative disease that affects healthy bone growth.
Bella's parents, Rachel and Ed, were shocked at the diagnosis. She has a tough road ahead of her with anywhere between 30 and 50 surgeries. Rachel and Ed are sharing their daughter's story in hopes for a cure.
Every case of Morquio syndrome is different, so there is no baseline. Bella lives in a lot of pain and relied on crutches and/or a wheelchair to walk for most of her life.
In 2015, life improved drastically for this incredible little girl. Bella met George the Great Dane, and the two formed an immediate bond.
Bella's mom says that when they visited the Service Dog Project, George was the only dog who showed any interest in her.
Since meeting George, Bella has put away her crutches. George happily goes everywhere with her, guiding her through school and embarking on every activity with her. 'He helps me walk,' she says. 'I lean on him like a crutch!'
The story behind Bella and George is going viral. Not only is it truly heartwarming, but it proves the healing power of animals, no matter how big or small. Please SHARE this video with your friends on Facebook!
