Miracles really do happen.

Last July, Keiko, a healthy Kaua'i canine, went riding in the car with her owner Clyde Shigematsu. Tragically, their car was involved in a head-on collision and Clyde died on the scene. Keiko suffered a fractured spine.

The Kauai Humane Society transported Keiko to her veterinarian. The injuries were so extreme that Keiko was left incontinent, paralyzed and in excruciating pain. Despite the bad prognosis, Clyde's wife, Alison, would not give up hope and decided against euthanasia.

From the very beginning, there was an outpouring of love for Alison and Keiko. Family and friends would take Keiko out on a stretcher daily to do her business. Todd Strong, a physical therapist, offered to work with Keiko for free. Once a week, he assisted Keiko with her rehabilitation exercises. On Todd's first visit, more than 20 friends and family members showed up to learn how to move and assist her. This outpouring of love also aided in Keiko's recovery.

After some time, Keiko slowly progressed from lying, to sitting, to standing and then to walking. Each little step in her recovery was celebrated as a true victory.

Even today, to keep up with her exercise routine, family and friends continue to take Keiko swimming twice a week.

Now Keiko is enjoying life again. She can even fetch!

Alison would like to thank everyone who was involved with Keiko's care. There were many angels involved in Keiko's success: veterinarians Dr. Ihor Basko, Dr. Craig Nishimoto, Drs. JoAnne and Mike Woltman and Dr. Suzanne Palawa; physical therapist Todd Strong; and the many family and friends who accompanied them to doctor visits, physical therapy and acupuncture sessions and did whatever was necessary to get Keiko well again.

She sure is a miracle dog!

Animal lover Leslie Kawamoto has been with the Advertiser for 18 years, or 126 in dog years. Check out her blog at www.HonoluluAdvertiser.com/Blogs