Kevin Babington Foundation “Pays It Forward” with Life-Changing Gift of Service Dog to Young Veteran

Kevin Babington Foundation “Pays It Forward” with Life-Changing Gift of Service Dog to Young Veteran

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wellington, FL – July 18, 2025

When legendary equestrian Kevin Babington received his service dog, Samantha, the bond transformed his daily life. Grateful for the support and newfound independence she brought, Kevin felt compelled to give back. He wanted to “pay it forward” — and in that spirit, the Kevin Babington Foundation proudly announces the placement of a specially trained service dog, Bliss, with a young Veteran living with multiple disabilities.

Lovingly raised and expertly trained for over two years, Bliss is more than just a service dog — she’s a symbol of strength, partnership, and hope. Her recipient, a determined young Veteran, shares how Bliss has already made an extraordinary impact:

“Bliss has truly been a blessing in my life. She provides essential mobility assistance, helping me navigate stairs safely and preventing falls during episodes of dizziness or instability. Incredibly intelligent and intuitive, Bliss quickly learned her tasks and began alerting me almost immediately after we brought her home. Beyond her service work, she’s our little diva — full of personality, love, and joy. She has brought not only companionship into our lives but also a renewed sense of freedom and independence, even as I face multiple disabilities. Her presence is both comforting and empowering.”

This powerful new partnership is the embodiment of Kevin’s mission: to help others regain independence and dignity through the love and loyalty of service dogs. The Foundation, established after Kevin sustained a spinal cord injury in 2019, supports individuals with mobility challenges by providing access to vital resources, including service animals.

“Bliss represents the heart of our mission,” said Jeff Papows, Chairman of the Kevin Babington Foundation. “Kevin’s experience with Samantha sparked a deeper commitment to helping others achieve the same transformative support. We are honored to share this moment with a courageous Veteran who now walks forward with Bliss by her side.”

The next service dog in training at Canine Support Teams (CST) is Bo Bruin—an extraordinary companion preparing to be placed with a veteran in need. Bo represents the next chapter in CST’s powerful mission to restore independence, confidence, and connection for those who have served our country. Follow CST to stay updated on Bo’s journey and the life-changing work they continue to do for our nation’s heroes.

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“Assisting those living with these nightmarish challenges is core to the Kevin Babington Foundation strategy,” says Chairman Jeff Papows. “We will continue to find additional ways to demonstrate it.”

For more information about the Kevin Babington Foundation and how you can help support future service dog placements, visit www.kevinbabingtonfoundation.org.

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