A Lifeline Named Chloe: One Veteran's Journey Through The Best Is Yet to Come

When Air Force Veteran Susan first enrolled in our The Best Is Yet to Come (BYTC) program, she was carrying an overwhelming burden. Like many Veterans, she faced daily challenges with depression and anxiety, making it difficult to find hope or even the energy to keep moving forward.

During a visit to our Tucson office, Susan met someone who would unexpectedly help change the course of her journey—Lexi, our office support dog.

The moment Susan saw Lexi, her face lit up. She eagerly spent time with her and quietly shared a dream she had been holding onto: someday having a dog of her own.

As fate would have it, Susan's Case Manager, Kathi, works closely with local animal rescue organizations and knew of a dog searching for a forever home. When Susan met Chloe, the connection was immediate. It was clear they had found each other at exactly the right time.

What began as a simple introduction quickly became something much more meaningful. Chloe became a constant source of comfort, companionship, and unconditional love. For Susan, she was more than a pet—she was a lifeline.

Today, those who meet Susan and Chloe often remark on the transformation they see. With Chloe by her side, Susan has rediscovered a sense of purpose and connection. The daily routine of caring for her companion, combined with the joy and affection Chloe brings, has helped Susan rebuild confidence and hope for the future.

Susan will graduated from our The Best Is Yet to Come program earlier this year, a milestone that reflects her resilience, determination, and commitment to healing. Her journey is a powerful reminder that recovery is possible and that meaningful support can come in many forms.

The Best Is Yet to Come is made possible through the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program, which allows us to provide comprehensive support and resources to Veterans facing mental health challenges, housing instability, and other barriers to well-being. Through personalized case management, peer support, connection to community resources, and individualized care, the program helps Veterans build stability, strengthen protective factors, and create a path toward a healthier future.

Susan's story is also a reminder that no one has to face life's challenges alone.

If you are a Veteran who is struggling with depression, anxiety, isolation, housing instability, or thoughts of suicide, please know that support is available. Reaching out for help is a courageous first step, and there are people ready to walk alongside you.

At The Best Is Yet to Come, we believe every Veteran deserves hope, connection, and the opportunity to thrive. Whether you need support for yourself or are concerned about a Veteran in your life, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about the services available through our program.

Together, we can help Veterans find renewed purpose, build meaningful connections, and discover that brighter days are possible.

Interested in learning more about The Best Is Yet to Come?

Contact us today to learn about eligibility, referrals, and available services. Our team is here to answer questions, provide support, and connect Veterans with the resources they need.

You don't have to face life's challenges alone. Help is available, and hope is within reach.

For more information about The Best Is Yet to Come or to make a referral, contact info@nchponline.org or fill out our mental health screening tool to be contacted by one of our case managers.

For Veterans experiencing a crisis or having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.