Pumpkin: Rolling Forward with Love and Purpose

Pumpkin wasn’t born paralyzed—her injuries were the result of cruelty no living creature should ever endure. At just a few weeks old, she suffered a broken spine that fused two discs and left her both paralyzed and incontinent. But while her body had been broken, her spirit remained whole. From the moment she entered her new home at eight weeks old—small, injured, but incredibly bright—Pumpkin radiated a joy and light that touched everyone around her. Despite the heartbreaking MRI results, which confirmed her condition was permanent, her new family made a clear decision: giving up was not an option.

With the support of loving specialists, proper care, and a custom-built wheelchair, Pumpkin found her freedom. Her wheels gave her more than just movement—they gave her a new beginning. As she zoomed around with unstoppable energy, Pumpkin inspired something bigger than herself. Her resilience and infectious happiness sparked the creation of Pumpkin and Friends, a charity devoted to helping other disabled dogs experience mobility and joy. In just 13 weeks, nearly 30 dogs received wheelchairs, medical support, and, most importantly, hope for a better life.

But Pumpkin’s story didn’t stop there. She soon became a therapy dog, visiting nursing homes, schools, and community centers. Wherever she rolled, she brought healing. With her sparkling eyes and wagging tail, she showed the world that disability is not the end of a story—it can be the start of something extraordinary. Through her presence, she comforted the elderly, encouraged children, and brought smiles to faces that hadn’t smiled in a long time. Her journey transformed her from a survivor into a symbol of courage and compassion.

Today, Pumpkin leads a growing movement. Through the Wheelie Good Friends community and the annual Disability Dog Walk, hundreds of dogs with disabilities come together to celebrate life, resilience, and unconditional love. Though Pumpkin may never walk on her own again, she is leading others—both animals and people—toward a better, more inclusive world. What began with pain has grown into a powerful mission of healing. With every joyful roll forward, Pumpkin teaches us all that no matter what life brings, we can move forward—with courage, with purpose, and with love.