FACE Helps Buddies Jax & Luis


Luis is a San Diego resident and combat veteran who suffers from PTSD after serving multiple tours in Afghanistan. Jax, a friendly, young Boxer-mix, is his registered therapy dog and a main source of emotional support. “They are best friends that do everything together,” says Luis’ sister. “Their love is beyond words. Jax has made his life a lot easier and less stressful. If anything happened to Jax, he would be devastated.”

In February of 2018, Jax and Luis headed out for a day of fun and were driving north on the I-5 when a drunk driver, who was driving the wrong way, collided head-on with them.  Luis was unconscious, while the drunk driver was fatally injured at the scene. Jax was in shock, pacing the highway trying to help his dad who was badly hurt. Once help arrived, Luis was taken immediately to Scripps Memorial Hospital and Jax was taken to Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Sorrento Valley. Luis sustained severe injuries, including multiple fractures, head bleeding, collapsed lungs and a broken spine with the possibility of paralyzation. Jax sustained internal bleeding, lacerations, trauma, and a spleen injury requiring surgery. When Luis gained consciousness, his first words were his 3-year-old daughter’s name and “Jax is irreplaceable.” To watch the NBC News story, click here.

With the support of over 100 community donors, FACE was able to assist Jax with receiving emergency care at VSH. VSH did not hesitate on helping Jax and worked with FACE to significantly discount his medical treatments. Luis has already undergone multiple surgeries and is progressing each day, but has a long road of recovery ahead of him. Because of FACE’s supporters, Jax has been able to be by Luis’s side during his whole recovery.  “Thank you for everything you did for Jax and my brother. Words cannot describe how thankful we are. From the bottom of our hearts, our family thanks you.” – Luis’ loving family. 

Click here to watch their amazing story.