U.S. Army Sergeant Stormy, and Jasmine’s Story
U.S. Army Sergeant Stormy's life was thrown into uncertainty when he was diagnosed with bone cancer while deployed overseas. At the same time, despite his devastating diagnosis, he was desperate to save the life of a vulnerable puppy he witnessed fighting to survive. Jasmine, as she became known, was slowly dying from starvation, and without help, that would have been her fate. This selfless soldier's wish became Paws of War's mission, and Stormy and Jasmine's story became on of survival, and hope. After rescuing Jasmine from overseas and bringing her to safety in America, Paws of War team members delivered Jasmine to Stormy for an emotional reunion on his birthday.
Their story began when the sight of Jasmine as a tiny puppy stopped Stormy and his team in their tracks. She was starving, exhausted, and struggling just to make it through another day. She didn't know where her next bite of food or sip of water was going to come from - or if it would at all. It was a fight for survival in brutal conditions no animal should ever face. The soldiers reached out to Paws of War for help, knowing Jasmine had no chance of making it alone.
Nesconset, NY
Paws of War team members Army Veteran and US Military Logistics Liaison, Derek Cartwright, and Niki Dawson load Jasmine for her journey home to Pennsylvania.
Gentle, fragile, and barely holding on, Jasmine quickly found a place in Stormy's heart; their connection was instant, and they formed a deep bond. He made a promise that he would make sure she was safe, and that she would have a future filled with love instead of fear. He would make it his mission.
But he had no idea his own future was about to be thrown into turmoil.
At just 20 years old, Stormy began experiencing severe and unexplained pain. After seeking medical care he received a devastating diagnosis: bone cancer.
Stormy was immediately flown home to the U.S. for urgent treatment at Walter Reed. He faced every appointment and every moment of fear, with one hope: that Jasmine would survive. That she wouldn't have to fend alone in the harsh and unforgiving world she was born into, and that the future he dreamed of for her, would still be possible.
What Stormy didn't know, was that before we ever learned that he was battling cancer, Paws of War was already in action to rescue Jasmine. Once we discovered what Stormy was facing, our determination became stronger than ever. His wish became our mission.
U.S. Army Veteran and Paws of War team member, Derek, flew overseas to bring Jasmine to America. Once the required clearances were in place, and Jasmine arrived safely on U.S. soil, she was transported to Paws of War Headquarters, in Nesconset, New York. Stormy was overjoyed to hear that Jasmine had made it Stateside. He hoped he would see her soon, but the timing of their reunion was kept a surprise because we wanted to make this delivery extra special... on his birthday.
Escorted by the God Bless America Motorcycle Color Guard
On the day of their reunion, Paws of War team members set off for Pennsylvania with Jasmine. They were escorted by the flying flags of the God Bless America Motorcycle Color Guard; adding honor and ceremony to an eagerly anticipated homecoming. Stormy's parents brought him outside onto to their driveway, right to the spot that Jasmine would arrive, and where his family and friends were already waiting.
Stormy helped save Jasmine when she needed it most. Now, thanks to your help, Jasmine is there for Stormy - giving him strength, comfort, unconditional love, and hope as he continues his treatment.
What began as a soldier’s wish became a mission of love, resilience, and healing. Paws of War is honored to have been able to have been able to pull out all the stops to make this very special reunion happen, but it was your loyal support that enabled us to make it possible!
Thank You for always being by our side as we work to give back to the brave men and women who sacrifice so much for us, by saving the animals they love.
We wish Stormy strength and healing in his journey ahead, and we will do everything we can to support him.
