Dear Mark,
Kathleen mentioned that it would be helpful to provide formal documentation of the life-changing work you do for the veterans we serve. While our admiration for your mission is no secret, I am more than happy to put it into words for your records.
As you know, the Spectracare Foundation was honored to present you and Batman with our 2023 Medal of Honor. We grant only one such award annually, and your selection was a testament to the unique and vital niche you’ve carved out in veteran services.
What makes “Paws Healing Heroes” truly exceptional is your innovative approach to a systemic problem. By asking why service animals were financially out of reach for so many, you developed a model that is both compassionate and incredibly efficient. Your decision to rescue shelter dogs—saving them from destruction—and then training them to the specific, individualized needs of a veteran is brilliant. It’s not just about the cost-saving of nearly 90%; it’s about the dual lives saved in every pairing.
At our last count, you have placed over 165 dogs. In the world of service animals, that volume is staggering. The testimonials you receive regarding prevented suicides and restored lives speak volumes—you truly have no peers in this space.
You are one of the most energetic, dedicated, and authentically “no-nonsense” individuals I have had the pleasure to work with. As I’ve said before, I would have been proud to serve under your command in the military; it would have been a true privilege.
While I remain frustrated that fundraising hasn’t yet matched the scale of your impact, please know that the Spectracare Foundation remains your steadfast partner. We aren’t giving up, because we know you never give up on the veterans and animals who need you most.
Keep up the passionate, life-saving work.
Warm regards,
Michael D. Van Stine
Executive Director
SpectraCare? Foundation and
The Carlton R. Rouh Veterans Center