A decade ago, Cheyeanne’s world shifted when her seemingly healthy mother was suddenly diagnosed with cancer and passed away just months later. The loss shattered her sense of direction and forced her to rethink her fast-paced life chasing financial success. “You are not promised a specific amount of time,” she realized. “You are not assured anything.”
That painful wake-up call launched her into a journey of self-discovery, one that would ultimately be guided by the companionship of rescue dogs—first Cash, and later two unforgettable pups named Notorious and Shady.
Notorious came first. A video of a tiny, disabled dog bounding joyfully through the snow stole Cheyeanne’s heart. The dog, who had no use of her back legs, was flipping and squealing with excitement.
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<p>Though Cheyeanne had no prior experience with special needs pets, she couldn’t shake the image of the spirited pup. She adopted her and gave her the name Notorious, after the rapper Notorious B.I.G.</p>
<p>Now estimated to be nine or ten years old, Notorious shows no signs of slowing down. In her wheelchair, she runs 5Ks, barrels down trails, and faces every adventure without fear. “She has no idea she’s disabled, and I’m not going to tell her,” Cheyeanne laughs.</p>
<p>Then came Shady, a senior blind dog who had lost both eyes after being hit by a car. One eye was reattached, though she sees little through it. Despite that, Shady is endlessly loving and adaptable—fond of kids, adults, cats, and dogs alike.</p>
<p>Cheyeanne hadn’t planned to adopt her at first, thinking she’d easily find a home. But she quickly learned that many people overlook disabled and senior dogs.</p>
<p>Now both dogs are her constant companions and have reshaped her life. They paddleboard, hike, run races (Shady in a backpack), and offer her a sense of peace and purpose she never expected.</p>
<p>Cheyeanne names all her dogs after music legends—Cash (Johnny Cash), Notorious (The Notorious B.I.G.), and Shady (Slim Shady)—a reflection of how deeply music helps her through hard times. “It doesn’t matter where you start in life; what counts is where you end up,” she says.</p>
<p>Of course, caring for special needs dogs isn’t without challenges. From managing incontinence to carefully monitoring Shady near water, it requires patience and dedication.</p>
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