Fort Lauderdale Family Mourns Tragic Loss, Seeks Home for Bonded Pooches

Fort Lauderdale Family Mourns Tragic Loss, Seeks Home for Bonded Pooches

In the sunny tapestry of Florida, a heartbreaking tale unfolds as a family in Fort Lauderdale grapples with the tragic loss of Joey Henriquez, who was killed in a hit-and-run incident. Henriquez was struck while crossing Palm Aire Drive in Pompano Beach by a driver who chose to flee the scene. His family recounts the harrowing days that followed, as he was declared brain dead after being hospitalized for several days. Despite this unimaginable loss, his sister reflects on a meaningful act, as Joey was able to donate some of his organs, a gesture that shines a light amid the grief.

Now, the family faces another challenge: the care of Joey’s beloved dogs, Bella and Ally. Bella is an 8-year-old white American Bulldog-Boxer mix, and Ally a 13-year-old tan German Shepherd-Labrador mix. These two dogs have spent their entire lives together, forming a bond that mirrors the love and unity that their owner cherished. With Joey gone, the family is determined to find a permanent home for Bella and Ally, emphasizing the importance of keeping the pair together.

The Search for a New Home

Joey’s mother, Linda Cuevas, has recently faced her own struggles. She was evacuated from her apartment following her son’s death and is currently recovering from a hip operation, leaving her unable to care for the dogs. Bella and Ally are temporarily being housed at Hounds Town in Broward County, where Toni Jade, the facility’s operator, has ensured they receive necessary veterinary care, including vaccinations. However, the family stresses that this arrangement is only temporary. If you’re interested in providing these bonded companions with a forever home, you can reach out to Michelle at michellezymet@gmail.com or call 786-295-4819.

The increase in hit-and-run incidents is alarming, and organizations like Helping Hit-and-Run Tragedies (HHART) are stepping up to raise awareness and support victims and their families. According to HHART, nearly all board members have personal experiences linked to hit-and-runs, emphasizing the urgency of their mission. In the United States, one hit-and-run accident occurs roughly every 60 seconds, a statistic that drives HHART’s commitment to funding law enforcement and supporting families affected by these tragedies.

A Troubling Trend

Florida, known as the Sunshine State, highlights the stark contrast of its vibrant communities against the backdrop of such painful incidents. With a diverse population of over 23 million, the state’s rich culture is often marked by unfortunate occurrences like this. The state is not just a tourist haven, boasting attractions like Walt Disney World and pristine beaches; it also grapples with pressing issues such as rising accidents and hit-and-runs that shatter lives daily.

The pressing need for community awareness can’t be overstated. Organizations like HHART aim for national recognition of these incidents, believing that greater awareness might prevent future tragedies. In times of sorrow, the stories of resilience and unity shine through—like the bond between Bella and Ally, highlighting that there’s always something to be said for love and companionship, even in the most challenging times.

As the community rallies to support Joey Henriquez’s family and help bring Bella and Ally into a loving home, this story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of coming together in times of need. Let’s hope for justice for Joey and a hopeful future for his cherished pets.