"If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito."-Dalai Lama
I have always been a believer that everyone (young and old, rich and poor) hold the power to make a difference in the world. This Dalai Lama quote is a subtle illustration of how even the smallest species can make a difference. However, we often never know how our deeds affect others. Like most good Samaritans, Sarah Culpepper, an 8-year-old-girl from South Carolina, didn't care about any accolades; she just wanted to help a dog get better so it can find a forever home.
Sarah, a volunteer at Francis Willis SPCA, spotted Rouge, a 2-year-old chocolate lab that required knee surgery. Motivated by the memory of her family dog, also a chocolate, decided to take action and raise the $3,600 needed. She started the fund raising by dipping into her own allowance. She then hosted an event at Perfectley Franks, a restaurant in Summerville, SC. Though her efforts, she raised $1,400 in funds. A local veterinary hospital, Sangaree Animal Hospital heard about Sarah and Rogue's tale and offered to perform the surgery for $1,000. Sarah decided to use the remaining $400 on pet food for other pets at the shelter.
Although Sarah's story is heartwarming, I am blogging about her actions because it caused a ripple effect that touches me in Colorado. My mother-in-law, Debbie DeChaine, happens to be a volunteer at Francis Willis SPCA. Like Sarah, Debbie lost her beloved chocolate lab, Java, a couple of years ago. Due to her fondness of all dogs (especially chocolates), Debbie agreed to foster Rogue while she recovers from knee surgery. Debbie has spoken glowingly of Sarah and has fallen in love with Rogue, who she has nicknamed "JJ" which stands for "Java Junior."
Later this month, I will be visiting my in-laws in South Carolina with my wife and two-year-old daughter. While I'm there, I look forward to meeting Rogue. I also hope to meet Sarah and introduce her to my little girl because she is a role model that I want my daughter to look up to.
WCSC, the local CBS affiliate, featured Sarah and Rogue on television. The video footage is embedded below.