Lucy, the dog whose life inspired so many through her determination and positive attitude, is the driving force behind the Legacy Award.

Lucy was born with a birth defect that rendered her hind legs useless. She was thrown away in a dumpster to die. A twist of fate saved her life and allowed her to do what some say she was born to do. She helped people.

During her ten and one half years, she not only inspired many people to look beyond their injuries and go on to recover, but actually presided over what could only be described as small miracles. Her work attracted a lot of attention. She was nominated for, and won, the G.R.A.C.E. Award for the outstanding Therapy dog of 2001. She also won an A.C.E. Award (Award for Canine Excellence) from the AKC, who recognized her Therapy work and her inspiring can-do attitude.

During her lifetime, Lucy participated in over 400 Therapy visits. When she died, at the age of 10 1/2, we received emails and cards from all over the world. We had no idea she had become so well known. There will never be another dog like Lucy, but her life had an affect on so many, we felt it would be a shame to let it all go. We established Lucy's Legacy in her honor and vowed to continue her work, helping dogs and people through financial means and education.

Chandler and Dee Rudd

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