Finding peace together: Damone and Blue

*Name has been changed upon request for privacy. 

Damone* is a lover of dogs – which is why he sought out Blue, a hyperactive cocker spaniel and husky mix. Blue is only a puppy, but she’s made a huge impact on Damone’s life. 

Damone was born in Seattle, then moved to Mexico until he was seven or eight years old. He then came back to the United States, settling in Los Angeles where he’s been ever since.  

A few years ago, Damone experienced a severely traumatic incident. Leaving him homeless, he spent over a year sleeping outside on the streets. He tried to go to mass shelters, but they were usually full, so he always had to find a new safe place to sleep.  

Eventually Damone connected to mental health services, and was offered a spot to live in a Pallet shelter village. Blue came into the picture shortly after. 

Blue, even in her energetic puppy phase, serves as a friend and confidant to Damone, who spends a lot of time on his own. When he needs calmness in his life, Blue has a way of sensing it and adapts to his mood. 

“She keeps my mind occupied when I go through depression and anxiety phases. It’s almost like an aid,” he said. 

Right now, Damone is working with the on-site service provider to find an apartment. He is looking forward to a more structured life: going to the gym, hanging out with friends, and doing things that make him feel good about himself again. 

“I want to find my own peace and live in a normal environment again,” he said. “It’s a blessing to have a place to live [right now]. At the same time, I feel like I can overcome this and be part of society.”  

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