NewsPositively Hampton Roads

Actions

Portsmouth boy recovering from kidney transplant surprised with adorable puppy

puppy6.jpg
puppy1.jpg
puppy.jpg
puppy3.jpg
puppy5.jpg
puppy4.jpg
Posted at 1:00 PM, Jul 03, 2024

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — A 5-year-old Portsmouth boy who was born with a kidney disease now has a new best friend: an adorable bulldog named Boogie.

puppy5.jpg

After Ermias McNeal said he really wanted a bulldog, Make-A-Wish and Chartway Credit Union in Virginia Beach worked to make it happen.

Ermias met his new puppy on Tuesday! Employees at Chartway’s headquarters were invited to see the joy their charitable partnership brings to children with medical challenges.

puppy6.jpg

Ermias' dad said watching his son meet his new puppy on Tuesday was a special moment.

"He got a kidney transplant when he was 3 years old, right before his birthday... He spent a lot of time in the hospital," said James McNeal. "So him getting this wish granted is great and just to see him happy, smiling… Every day he’s growing. He’s smart. It’s just been a blessing to see.”

puppy3.jpg

Both of Ermias' parents are active-duty Navy. They told us their son will start school in the fall.