John Dahlman is filled with gratitude as he enters 2025. At the forefront of his list of blessings is the fact that the accident that wrecked his truck, his home, did not separate him from his beloved companion, Skye, a 5-year-old white shepherd and husky mix.

“I feel blessed that he’s alive because he means the world to me, and that I’m alive,” Dahlman expressed. “And I’m glad the other driver is alive. I wouldn’t want that to be anyone else’s Christmas nightmare … I’m just glad we are here to get our lives back together.”

A resident of Loveland, Dahlman had been striving to rebuild his life after facing numerous challenges and relocating from another state. Despite living in his truck for the past 22 months, he had managed to save $2,500 to secure an apartment. “It’s been quite a journey,” Dahlman reflected.

Then, on December 10, as he was en route to visit a friend in Fort Collins, everything changed in a split second of colliding metal and shattering glass.

While traveling north on U.S. 287, a vehicle turned onto the road heading southbound in his lane. Uncertain about how to avoid the collision, Dahlman swerved to the left. Unfortunately, the other driver—a 40-year-old man from Loveland—swerved to the right, resulting in a head-on crash.

“They hit head-on,” confirmed Colorado State Patrol Trooper Sherri Mendez.

Although the other driver sustained “serious injuries” and was transported to the hospital, where he faced charges including DUI, careless driving, and an open container violation, Dahlman emerged unscathed. However, Skye, his canine companion who was seated in the passenger seat, was not as fortunate. Upon impact, Skye struck the windshield before being propelled into the back seat, where he lay immobile.

“The windshield was shattered, and the dashboard was completely crushed,” Dahlman recounted. “He ended up in the back seat, curled up. He was alert but unable to move.”

With the assistance of a friend, Dahlman rushed Skye to VCA Veterinary Specialists in Loveland, where the canine received exceptional and compassionate care.

“He was internally bleeding and had bruised lungs,” Dahlman explained. “He was in critical condition upon arrival. … They mentioned air in his chest and had to insert a chest tube. Miraculously, he had no broken bones…”

Without hesitation, Dahlman committed to doing whatever it took to save his loyal companion; he allocated the $2,500 as a deposit for Skye’s medical treatment and pressed forward.

Following a friend’s initiative to share his story on Facebook, the community rallied to his aid through a GoFundMe campaign, which substantially covered the remaining $7,000 medical expenses and continues to be active in supporting John’s recovery.

Various individuals extended financial and other forms of assistance; friends recounted how people contacted the veterinarian’s office to contribute towards Skye’s bills. Additionally, his friends, colleagues, and even strangers who came across his posts on social media united to offer words of encouragement and support.

The outpouring of support, both financial and emotional, alleviated a significant burden for Dahlman.

“I am still overwhelmed by the response … I am deeply grateful,” Dahlman expressed. “I have witnessed the community coming together for assistance before. Lovelanders always unite in times of need. I didn’t anticipate this. Loveland is a wonderful place to be. It has altered my perspective on aiding others. I hope to reach a point in my life where I can offer $500 to someone else.”

“It’s truly remarkable how something so tragic has led to such an incredible outcome,” Dahlman, a peer recovery specialist, stated. “The entire community has come together for me. I am immensely thankful for that.”

One of his colleagues, Jodi Montez, highlighted the compassion and generosity Dahlman extends to his loved ones, clients, and others through his work. She took the initiative to launch the GoFundMe campaign to reciprocate his giving nature.

“He possesses an immense heart,” Montez remarked. “He exudes compassion and empathy towards others. He goes above and beyond for everyone.”

Currently residing with a friend, Dahlman has returned to work post-accident and is diligently saving to acquire another vehicle and restart his journey towards securing a place to call home. He looks ahead with optimism.

“The way I live, at times, makes me feel somewhat insignificant because I reside in my vehicle,” Dahlman confessed. “I simply coexist within the community. This incident has bridged the gap, making me feel like an integral part of the community.”

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Originally Published: December 25, 2024 at 7:45 AM MST