For many young children, life revolves around playtime, school, and carefree moments. However, for 5-year-old Wells Lewis, this encompasses the constant challenge of managing Type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed at the tender age of 3, Wells must navigate a condition that demands vigilant monitoring round the clock. Sudden fluctuations in blood sugar levels can occur without warning, posing frightening challenges for such a young child. Fortunately, Wells is not alone in these moments, thanks to his trusted companion, Ducky—a devoted service dog with a remarkable ability to sense changes in Wells’ condition.
Wells’ journey with Type 1 diabetes began with an early diagnosis. The autoimmune condition requires constant, careful attention as blood sugar levels can shift suddenly, posing potential risks. For Wells and his family, these changes could be overwhelming. But things took a positive turn when Ducky, an English cocker spaniel, entered their lives. He is not merely a pet but a highly trained diabetic alert dog, whose job is to detect changes in Wells’ blood sugar levels through the subtle chemical changes they cause in his body.
When Wells experienced a particularly serious low blood sugar episode, Ducky demonstrated his deep care for his young friend. As Wells’ body weakened, Ducky did more than alert Wells’ mother, Aubrie; he offered emotional support. After the immediate crisis had passed, the little dog climbed onto Wells’ lap, providing warmth and comfort while the boy recovered. Aubrie noted that this tender act wasn’t part of Ducky’s formal training but a display of the loyalty innate to his nature as a dog.
Most days, Wells is an energetic boy, filled with joy as he plays and explores with Ducky. These moments of quiet care are rare, yet they underline the unique bond between the child and his loyal dog. Ducky’s companionship offers Wells comfort and a layer of protection that technology alone cannot provide. Although Wells wears a continuous glucose monitor, it sometimes offers inaccurate readings because it measures glucose in interstitial fluid rather than directly in the blood.
Ducky’s journey to becoming a lifesaver started with M.D. Dogs, a nonprofit focused on training service dogs for individuals with Type 1 diabetes. From puppyhood, Ducky was trained to recognize the scent changes associated with blood sugar shifts—sometimes alerting the family up to 30 minutes before technology can. For now, Aubrie is Ducky’s handler, managing his alerts and care. As Wells matures, he will assume those responsibilities himself, guided by the deep bond with his furry guardian.
Wells’ connection with Ducky transcends medical support, showcasing a friendship and mutual dependence that enriches both their lives. While Wells’ diagnosis initially brought fear of a restricted childhood, Ducky transformed those feelings with his intuitive support. Providing not just medical alerts but emotional assurance, the loving dog ensures Wells never faces his challenges alone.
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