Kona

“Kona wasn’t just my dog—she was my soul dog, my constant, my everything.

We met in the most meaningful way, through a close friend. Kona was the runt of her litter, with a little “3” on her chest—my dad’s favorite number, who had passed two years before. The moment I saw her, I knew she was meant to be mine. I drove from Michigan to Tennessee to bring her home, and from that very first night (when she slept beside me and peed on my pillow 😄), we were inseparable.

Kona was loyal, loving, and full of personality. So well-behaved, with natural bird dog instincts—you could see it every time she pointed on our walks. She had a big bark but the gentlest heart. She was with me through everything—moves, loss, heartbreak, and healing. When my mom lived with me before she passed, Kona stayed right by her side. She felt everything. If I cried, she was there. My true Velcro dog.

We did everything together—car rides (she owned the backseat), visiting friends, pool days, being outside, squeaky toys, and all her favorite treats. She just loved being with me, and I loved being with her.

Kona gave me nearly 15 incredible years—outliving her parents and siblings. But like so many pet parents, I’m left with the “what ifs.”

We didn’t know she was fighting cancer until it was too late. There were signs—rising liver enzymes, small lumps. multiple tests —but without early imaging, we didn’t have answers. When we finally did, we discovered a tumor on her spleen: hemangiosarcoma. I chose to keep her comfortable rather than put her through more pain.

That experience changed me. It taught me how important it is to advocate for our pets—to push for answers and pay attention to the small changes. They can’t speak, so we have to be their voice.

I had to say goodbye just two weeks before moving to Alabama—a new chapter we were supposed to begin together. The vet from Laps of Love was incredible. She took her time, explained everything, and after seeing Kona and me together, she gently said, “She wasn’t going to leave you.” In that moment, I knew I had to set her free cause I knew she was right and Kona was so loyal to me, she would live in pain as long as she could so she didn’t leave me. I knew I had to do it, even though it broke my heart into a million pieces.

I miss her every moment of every day. But I will fight—because of her, and for others.

Kona is the heart behind Kona Wave Co.—a brand created to honor her, raise awareness for canine cancer, and help others avoid this kind of heartbreak.

She’s with me always—even in my Jeep, KAHU, named for the Hawaiian word that reflects the sacred bond between a person and their pet: a relationship built on trust, guidance, deep love, and spiritual connection.

Ride your own wave.
Love deeply.
Be their voice. 🤍”