When Hardie came into Simon’s life, no one could have imagined just how transformative his presence would be. Hardie isn’t just a dog and a best friend… he’s a bridge between a world that once felt unreachable and the life Simon now embraces.
“Hardie has changed Simon’s life in every way possible,” says Julie, Simon’s mom. “From non-verbal to speaking, from feeding tube to eating by mouth, and elopements to independence.”
Hardie is a multipurpose service dog trained to support Simon’s unique and complex needs. But what he offers goes far beyond task work. He brings comfort in chaos, laughter in the quiet, and a sense of safety in an unpredictable world. When the world feels overwhelming, Simon has learned to recognize what he needs, and it often starts with a simple phrase: “I need to pet Hardie.”
That need is met with unconditional love.
Simon and Hardie are inseparable. Julie says, “Simon is so attached to Hardie. They’re the best team around.” Whether they’re walking through daily life side by side or dressing up in coordinated Halloween costumes their connection shines in everything they do.
For Simon, Hardie is a source of courage.
“He’s the ying to Simon’s yang. He’s the calm to Simon’s storm and the silly to the serious.”
And for the family who once didn’t consider themselves “dog people,” Hardie has opened their hearts in ways they never expected. “Getting a service dog for Simon was the most significant, life-changing decision we could have ever made,” Julie shares. “I’ve counted my lucky stars every single day since Hardie came into our family.”The unexpected gifts have been ample. Simon’s blossoming confidence, new social interactions, excitement from peers, and something every parent longs to witness: the joy of their child finding a true friend. Now, their home is filled with not just one dog, but two; Hardie and their lovable “flunkie” Amazon.
Julie sums it up best… “The love they’ve brought to our home and our hearts is immeasurable.”