Heroes Mary & Peggy Sue: Jennie Baker's Story

At BRAVEHEART K9, part of our mission is to shine a light not only on those who support the working dog community, but also to truly listen to the end users—the individuals whose lives are directly shaped by these remarkable dogs. By understanding both the successes and the challenges, we aim to help identify opportunities for meaningful improvement and collaboration. 

Our friend Jennie Baker, a former guide dog recipient, has graciously allowed us to share the highs and lows of her ongoing journey and how her heroes, Mary & Peggy Sue changed her life. We believe that by continuing to invite and listen to these voices, together we can build a stronger, more connected working dog community in America.

A Life of Quiet Courage

When Jennie Baker was just two months old, a brain hematoma left her legally blind, with only five percent of her vision. Yet, through every challenge, she’s carved out a life built on grit and deep compassion. Since 1991, despite her disability, Jennie has lived independently in a small 700 sq. ft. apartment. To support herself for the past 35 years, Jennie loyally worked for the Vons/Safeway grocery store chain in Washington state stocking shelves and helping in the dairy department. “Learning to do everything on my own was hard, but I am so grateful for the support of my family, coworkers and community along the way” Jennie says. 

Her First Guide Dog: Mary

Exactly one year after her beloved mother’s death, on March 14, 2010, Jennie received her first guide dog, a yellow labrador retriever, Mary, through a generous philanthropic program. “Mary changed everything,” Jennie recalls. “With her, I could walk with confidence, go to work, cross busy streets, and travel to new places. She even stopped me from walking in front of a car that turned suddenly around a corner.”

But tragedy struck when Mary was only two years old. After rushing her to emergency care and paying expensive upfront cash deposits, Jennie was given shocking news. Mary was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. The emergency medical expenses were stressful and difficult as Jennie had to urgently borrow money from family to pay for Mary’s immediate care. Since the philanthropy was the legal owner of the dog, medical care was also difficult to navigate until she could get in touch with decision makers. Fortunately, due to the unusual circumstance, she was able to file a claim with the philanthropy for reimbursement for some of the medical expenses. But at the time, Jennie was more focused on Mary’s health and comfort. Not only did she try to make sure Mary had the best medical care possible, but Jennie took weeks off work to care for her companion through her final days. “I didn’t earn a dime those three weeks, but it was never a question. She was my world.”

Peggy Sue: A True Guardian

In 2012, Jennie welcomed her second guide dog, Peggy Sue, a golden retriever who quickly became not only Jennie’s partner but a hero to others. “Peggy Sue was so smart—she saved my life more than once,” Jennie remembers. Peggy Sue’s instinct extended beyond Jennie. One day at Safeway, she sensed a customer was in medical distress before anyone else did. Peggy Sue barked for attention, helped him safely to the ground and stayed pressed against him while he had a seizure—protecting him until help arrived. She saved lives in many ways, including cheering folks up during COVID. During that difficult time, just hugging or petting Peggy Sue brightened up people’s days. To recognize her contribution to everyone’s mental health, Peggy Sue was granted her own honorary Safeway service badge titled “Employee Comfort” which made Jennie very proud.

Peggy Sue remained by Jennie’s side for 12 years, until her passing at 13 years old. “Losing her was one of the hardest times of my life” Jennie says.

Life After Loss

Since Peggy Sue’s death last summer, Jennie continues to work every shift she’s offered—but now she cannot afford the costs of a new guide dog, even if offered for free again. “While charities provide the dogs,” she explains, “it’s the food, the treats, the grooming, the ongoing medical care—it all adds up. With rising rent and food costs, I just can’t afford it anymore.” 

When asked what is the most important message she wants to communicate to the BRAVEHEART K9 community, she said:

“Guide dogs don’t just help disabled people—they truly give us life. They make it possible for us to work, support ourselves and contribute back to the community. We aren’t looking for handouts; we just want the chance to to live with dignity and independence.”

How BRAVEHEART K9 Can Help

Jennie’s story  about her experiences with Mary and Peggy Sue is why BRAVEHEART K9 exists—to support America’s working and service dogs, and the humans whose lives depend on them. Every purchase helps fund guide-dog programs and working-dog nonprofits that restore freedom and companionship to people like Jennie.

Because no one should have to walk in the dark—alone.