Not all heroes wear capes. Some are black and white and cute all over! I can’t believe I forgot to tell you this story, but better late than never…
Last Saturday we were headed to San Angelo, TX via American Airlines. We flew to Dallas then had to catch a commuter plane to San Angelo. Those plans are small, cramped and not fun for people with flight anxiety. It was late at night and I knew our flight duration was only 45 minutes. I had Wynston on my lap, so I was totally fine. But about 15 minutes into our flight I noticed the woman next to me wiping tears from her face…
I gave it a minute to see if maybe she had allergies or something, but she continued to dry her face and sniffle.
I looked over at her, Wynston fast asleep on my lap. “Ma’am, are you okay?” I asked, concerned.
“I just get really nervous when I fly,” she replied.
“Oh my. If anyone understands, it’s me. That’s why Wynston is an emotional support animal. My fear of flying is debilitating.”
She followed up with, “I get bad anxiety every time. It’s so embarrassing.”
Without batting an eye, I asked, “Would you like to hold Wynston? He won’t mind sleeping on your lap!”
After a brief moment of silence, she let out a slight grin and said, “Yeah, okay!”
I lifted Wynston in his blanket and rested him on the woman’s lap. She started petting him and we began chatting.
She didn’t cry another tear. In fact, we talked, laughed and exchanged dog stories for the last 30 minutes of the flight. The nice lady held Wynston tight as we descended, and he didn’t even know the difference.
Wynston had come to the rescue without doing a thing. And it was one of the proudest moments of my life. Wynston helped that woman overcome her fear of flying for at least 30 minutes. She went from crying to seemingly happy and relaxed.
Once we landed, the woman thanked me and Wynston for helping her. I was extremely grateful in that moment that my son was able to be of service to someone in a time of need. I know what it’s like to be terrified of flying, and I know how appreciative I am when someone understands what I’m going through.
Not all heroes wear capes, but sometimes they fly 😉
Lindsay Pevny says
I love that last line! You and Wynston make a great team.
Cathy says
Awww, way to go Winston! He’s a heron and doesn’t even know it.
Kinley Westie says
What a pawsome thing to do!
Eliza says
Love this!
Sue Northern says
Hello!!
You are Awesome!! I have three babies that are so precious to me, that I love more than anything!! Three Yorkers from the same litter with such different personalities!! My sweetest baby boy is nothing but a snuggly love bug, but he has been having some horrible coughing spells that just breaks my heart!! That’s how we found you and I appreciate your tips!! I’m gonna start trying what you suggest!!
Thank you So much ?
Sue N in Phoenix, Arizona
Amanda says
Hi Sue! I’m so happy we can help! Thanks for sharing about your Yorkies 🙂 We also live in Arizona, but in Gilbert! Thanks for following Wynston and I on our journey. xoxo
Ana @ HappyJackRussell says
Beautiful story!
Very inspiring. Just goes to show what a profound effect our beloved darlings have on us.
Cathy Armato says
Aww, what a sweetheart! I get anxious flying too so I can relate. I’m sure petting Wynston and just seeing his adorable face lowered her blood pressure instantly! Well done!
Love & Biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them