Dog says goodbye to dying owner in heartbreaking moment at hospital
A California family arranged a special goodbye between a dying man and his cherished canine companion last month. Ryan Jessen, 33, was hospitalized at Rideout Memorial Hospital in Marysville with a ventricular brain hemorrhage and connected to a ventilator when his relatives brought Mollie, his dog of six years, for a final visit before his death on November 30.
His 32-year-old sister Michelle captured the touching moment on video and shared it on Facebook with close ones. "Accepting my brother wouldn't regain consciousness was devastating," Michelle told TODAY. "We felt Mollie needed closure and wanted to help her understand the situation."
Ryan first encountered Mollie approximately six years earlier while walking through a cemetery near his parents' home in Sutter, California. She was a stray, described by Michelle as a "small flea-covered puppy." Their connection grew so strong that the family believed Mollie should visit the hospital to grasp why her owner wouldn't return home.
"Ryan had such a kind heart, and our entire family loves dogs," Michelle explained. "Typically, Mollie would excitedly rush to him and jump up, but she approached him very cautiously at the hospital."
Millions have viewed the video, offering support and sharing personal grief stories. "Our faith has been crucial in facing this tragedy," Michelle said. "The overwhelming support from people has been incredibly meaningful."
Doctors suggested to the family that Ryan's high blood pressure might have contributed to the brain hemorrhage. "We wish we could point to a specific cause, but we simply don't have answers," Michelle noted.
Ryan donated seven organs, including his heart, which will benefit a 17-year-old California boy whose birthday falls on Christmas. The family hopes Ryan's story will promote organ donation awareness.
Mollie now resides with Ryan's parents in Sutter. "She'll continue experiencing Ryan's love through our family," Michelle said. "Many people expressed concern about Mollie, and keeping her apart from us was unimaginable."
