SNOHOMISH, Wash. -- They have become fixtures at Maltby Elementary School. George Sallee and his trusty Golden Retriever, Simon stop by three times a week to spend time with the kids. They've made a very special bond, however, with one particular boy.
His name is Jadon Morrissey, and his mother passed away unexpectedly right before the start of the school year.
George, Simon and Jadon have been spending a lot of time together since then. The soft-hearted 4th grader is still struggling to make sense of how something so horrible could happen to his family.
"I love every single living thing," said Jadon. "I just don't like to see things die. I just do not."
As fate would have it, Simon is a therapy dog. He quickly became the perfect companion to soothe a little boy's hurting soul.
"When I think of my mom, it makes me sad," said Jadon. "Simon and George keep my mind off it and it's really happy for me."
At 80 years old, George knows plenty about what it's like to lose those you love. He also knows what it's like to find friendship when you least expect it.
"When I was young, there was a man who taught me some things," he said, fighting back tears. "My dad did too, but this man spent some time with me. What did I give back? Nothing. Now I can."
George and Simon have made such an impact on Jadon that he has decided he wants to train therapy dogs himself one day. He hopes to help heal others who are hurting. As part of their time together, George helps teach Jadon some training techniques.
They both know a mother's love can never be replaced, but they also realize from that sadness, something special can still come.
"I'm really glad I have them both," said Jadon.