ST. LOUIS – April is a month that shines light on limb loss and limb differences.

In recognition of providing awareness, Shriners Children’s St. Louis is sharing a story that surrounds an 8-year-old patient and her adopted dog, who both have one thing in common: their limb differences.

St. Louis Shriners patient Brooklyn—who resides in Kansas City—was born with bilateral cleft hands, making her unique from her peers. 

“Kids at school didn’t always understand Brooklyn’s hands, and it made her feel isolated,” said Brooklyn’s mother, Tina. 

However, the 8-year-old would soon befriend a dog that shares her differences. Bronx, a rescue dog from Texas, helped Brooklyn embrace her differences, empowering her with pride. 

“My dog and I have the same hands,” Brooklyn said. “It was exciting when I first saw (Bronx). He’s so special and he plays with me and snuggles with me at night.”

Ever since the two met, they have been inseparable.

The pair enjoys activities such as basketball and hide-and-seek. 

Shriners Children St. Louis noted that Bronx has also become accustomed to his limb differences, radiating Brooklyn’s perseverance. 

“As a child, it can be hard to have physical differences that make you stand out, but we want our kids to realize that those differences give you strength,” said Dr. Charles Goldfarb, Shriners Children’s care team provider. “Brooklyn is a great example of what’s possible with the right support and the right companion.”