Ralph and Nova: A Bond Beyond Words
JOE WALLACE
JANUARY 7, 2025
Ralph and Nova were kindred spirits from the moment they met. Both had a calm, steady nature that drew people in, offering a quiet warmth and dependability that didn’t demand attention but left a lasting impact. Ralph, born and raised in Evansville, was known for his curiosity. When he saw Nova at the local pound, she had been there for 30 days, battling heartworms, fleas, and severe anemia. Their shared resilience and calm demeanor made them an instant match.
Nova entered Ralph’s life as he finished college, a period of significant change that soon tested his resilience. Named for her calm demeanor—a contrast to the explosive power her name implied—Nova became his steady companion. After Ralph began his engineering career, their bond deepened through shared routines and quiet moments. However, life shifted when Ralph was laid off during the COVID pandemic. Together, they relocated to Huntsville with his family, finding solace in each other as they adapted to new beginnings.
Finding a Path Forward
Restlessness eventually led Ralph to explore other possibilities. He packed his belongings and set off for Indianapolis, living out of an Airbnb while he assessed the city’s opportunities and lifestyle. The experience of moving from place to place, while challenging, gave Ralph a clearer sense of what he wanted in life.
After months of reflection and travel, Ralph realized his ideal home was in Vancouver, WA. With its mix of natural beauty and vibrant community, Vancouver offered the perfect balance he had been searching for. Nova, of course, remained by his side, adapting to each new environment with the same calm resilience that matched Ralph’s own.
A Heartbreaking Goodbye
At the age of 13, Nova began experiencing symptoms of Vestibular Disease. The condition caused disorientation, dizziness, and loss of balance. While Ralph hoped it was something temporary, Nova’s condition continued to worsen. The vet eventually suspected a brain tumor, and Ralph was faced with an agonizing decision.
On her final day, Ralph stayed by Nova’s side, cradling her head in his lap as he had so many times before. He whispered words of love and gratitude as she took her last breath. Though her calm, steadfast presence was gone, her love remained etched in Ralph’s heart forever.
A Legacy of Love
To honor Nova, Ralph and his family created a fund to support dog adoptions, covering fees for young people looking for their own companions. The initiative became a way to spread the love and loyalty that Nova had embodied.
“In memory of Nova, may your new family member bring you as much joy as Nova brought to us.”
