Grace's Dream Come True

Liz Hilliard Start Date: Jun 7, 2017 - End Date: Oct 4, 2017
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Vacation/Personal Trip
  • Volunteer Trip
  • New Orleans, LA, United States of America

My Travel Story

by: Liz Hilliard Start Date: Jun 7, 2017 - End Date: Oct 4, 2017
  • Educational/Research Trip
  • Vacation/Personal Trip
  • Volunteer Trip
Ever since Grace was about 2 years old, her love for animals has been obvious. It went beyond just a kid saying "I love dogs", or "Horses are my favorite". Grace truly loved and cared for animals. Their well being was always a priority for her. 

People would see Grace interact with their pets or with another animal and always comment on how amazing she is with them. She spends whatever TV time she does have watching Animal Planet and anything else that teaches her about animals. She can name any dog breed and ramble off a million facts about breeds and species,

While most kids dream of going to Disney World or some tropical destination; Grace's only wish is to go to the Villalobos Rescue Center in New Orleans, Louisianna. Villalobos is featured on Animal Planet's "Pit bulls and Parolees", and is the home not only to hundreds of rescued pit bulls, but it also employs parolees. Both the men employed and the dogs rescued are given a second chance at life, and Grace is always inspired by the kindness and care given to both man and dog.

Two months ago Grace suffered a loss that has caused her to have to grow up far too quickly. Her innocent youth was shattered by the sudden loss of her Dad to suicide. Grace and her Dad were very close, and he often watched "Pit bulls and Parolees" with her, and they spoke of visiting the center together someday. 

As her Mother, I of course want to take her pain away and make it all OK. Unfortunately there is no "fix" for the loss of a paremt. I have started this campaign to help raise funds to take Grace to Villalobos. She wants to volunteer and walk the dogs, and I feel this trip will be educational for her. She says she someday wants to work at a place like Villalobos, and may even want to start a program silmilar to it in NJ. I love this dream of hers and want to help her in any way I can. This trip will help her see the ins and outs of Villalobos Rescue Center, and will help some dogs get walks with an amazing little girl.

I know going there will not bring her father back, but it will help realize a dream in the midst of this nightmare. Seeing her smile is my only goal. 



  • New Orleans, LA, United States of America

Updates

1

  • Mail From Villalobos

    Grace got mail from Villalobos. She can't wait to visit there.