“I’m just really grateful.”
A Small Pup With a Big Presence
Jill Turner’s dog, Lola, is easy to overlook at first glance.
She’s a tiny Maltipoo, weighing just 5 pounds, with a body that often shakes and eyes that instantly capture attention — one warm brown, the other a striking blue.
But beneath Lola’s delicate appearance is a heart brave enough to save a life.
And that life was Jill’s.
A Night in the Mountains
In the summer of 2022, Turner and Lola were driving home late from a family trip when they passed through the Uinta Mountains in Utah. The towering peaks and quiet roads had always brought Turner comfort, reminding her of childhood memories and peaceful moments.
Feeling overwhelmed, she pulled the car over.
At the time, Turner was struggling deeply. After a surgery, she had become addicted to prescribed medications. Her mental health was unraveling, and she felt like a burden to everyone around her.
“I was in extreme distress,” Turner said.
“My mind was broken.”
A Desperate Moment
That night at Bald Mountain Pass, Turner made a tragic decision. She ingested a dangerous combination of pills and alcohol and soon lost consciousness in the wilderness.
She was completely alone.
Except for Lola.
A Hero Steps In
As Turner lay unresponsive, Lola realized something was wrong. Instead of freezing in fear, the tiny dog ran into the nearby campsite and began desperately seeking help.
She tapped strangers on their feet with her nose.
She spun in circles.
She refused to stop until someone followed her.
Finally, a group of campers trailed her back to Turner’s body.
One woman immediately began CPR to keep Turner alive until emergency responders arrived.
Throughout the rescue, Lola stayed pressed against Turner’s stomach, never leaving her side.
“The woman said Lola was so persistent, looking into her eyes,” Turner recalled.
“She didn’t stop. I feel like Lola gave her a reason to keep pumping.”
Healing Together
Turner survived — but her healing journey had only begun.
For nearly a year afterward, she continued to battle depression and addiction. On her hardest days, when she couldn’t get out of bed, Lola curled up beside her.
“She somehow knew what I needed,” Turner said.
“She never left me.”
Slowly, Turner began to rebuild her life.
A New Purpose
Today, Turner is doing much better. She now works at a treatment center for women, where she sometimes brings Lola for visits. She also volunteers as a sponsor for others recovering from addiction.
Lola, who once saved her life in the mountains, now helps bring comfort to countless others.
“She reminds me that I have value,” Turner said.
“I’m just really grateful.”
Still Saving Her Every Day
Now, Turner and Lola spend their days watching sunsets, going on bike rides, and simply enjoying the life they almost lost.
“She saved my life that day,” Turner said.
“And I swear she continues to save my life every single day since.”
Sometimes, heroes come in the smallest packages. 🐾