THE BRONX, N.Y. (PIX11) -- It’s not every day that hospitals welcome dogs onto their campus, but in cases of severe trauma, emotional support can be some of the best medicine.
Chanel, a four-year-old pit bull, knows she’s in for a big treat on Monday. She was taken on a walk to remember— to visit her best friend in the hospital.
Tayquon Young was literally swept off his feet during their reunion at Bellevue Hospital, where he has been recovering for more than a week after suffering a horrific injury.
"I’m blessed to have her here, and I’m blessed to be here to tell the story," Young said.
The 35-year-old sacrificed four of his fingers while saving Chanel from a man wielding a machete during a walk in the Bronx on January 24th.
"He swings the machete, and I went to grab it," Young recalled.
Surveillance footage from last month shows the suspect, apparently upset over the dog, before the attack. He has not been caught.
Doctors were unable to reattach Young’s four severed fingers, and he is now awaiting a second reconstructive surgery, which involves amputation.
But for the stolen moments with Chanel by his side, he finds comfort in her presence. "It’s emotional support—it means a lot," he said. "I was in bed, and I’m out, and she’s over me."
A Bellevue Hospital spokesperson explained that animal visits like this are reserved for "exceptional cases."
"We always strive to accommodate the needs of our patients with compassion and sensitivity," the spokesperson said.
Chanel has been spreading joy to the surgical floor. "They love her here—the nurses, doctors," Young said. "This was definitely a special visit."
Their bond has only strengthened after enduring such trauma together. "I saved her life, and she saved my life," Young said.
As he prepares for his next surgery, Young hopes to eventually be placed on a donor list for a transplant or be fitted for prosthetics. A GoFundMe has been started for his mounting hospital bills.
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