Unleashing New Abilities
ICAN client Kevin with his service dog Dolly and ICAN donors Lynn and Joe Newkirk
Kevin Massey’s childhood was like many others—filled with school days and a passion for sports, especially basketball. But in 2010, everything changed dramatically.
At just 16 years old, Kevin received a life-altering diagnosis: diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, a rare and inoperable tumor on the brainstem, primarily affecting children. The ensuing battle was tough; Kevin underwent radiation treatments and faced a brain bleed that challenged his mobility, ultimately leading him to rely on a wheelchair.
In 2012, Kevin’s journey shifted when he was paired with Aria, his first ICAN assistance dog, who stood by him for a decade. After her passing, Kevin sought another service dog and found Dolly, a spirited Yellow Labrador sponsored by Joe and Lynn Newkirk.
Fifteen months after Kevin and Dolly were paired together, they reunited with the Newkirks, who were thrilled to see how Dolly had transformed Kevin’s life.
“This has been such a full-circle experience,” Joe and Lynn shared. “Dolly is special to us as she’s our first graduate, and seeing how well Kevin is doing with her support means the world.”
ICAN Dolly
During their reunion, Kevin shared that Dolly not only deflects attention from himself but also helps him live independently by retrieving objects, opening doors, and pushing elevator buttons.
“I’m an active person, and she helps me maintain that lifestyle,” Kevin said.
Now volunteering as a basketball coach at Franklin Central High School, the sight of Kevin and Dolly together has become an inspiring symbol of strength – one that reminded the Newkirks of why Dolly is named “Dolly.”
“She’s named after Dolly Parton,” said Joe and Lynn. “Dolly Parton has such a philanthropic spirit and has become a beacon of hope and kindness for many. Just like ICAN Dolly does for Kevin, she brings joy to everyone she meets,” they noted.
The Newkirks and Kevin talk about how Dolly has him impacted his life.
Kevin’s journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the extraordinary bond between a person and their service dogs. But it’s the generosity of people like the Newkirks that makes these life-changing partnerships possible.
Together, they remind us all of the incredible ways in which we can overcome adversity and find joy in the connections we form.
If you’d like to learn how you can sponsor a dog like the Newkirks, email ICAN Philanthropy Director Samantha Wodecki at swodecki@icandog.org.