Portsmouth boy recovering from kidney transplant surprised by adorable puppy

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — A 5-year-old Portsmouth boy born with kidney disease now has a new best friend: an adorable bulldog named Boogie.

After Ermias McNeal said he really wanted a bulldog, Make-A-Wish and Chartway Credit Union in Virginia Beach worked to make it happen.

Ermias met his new puppy on Tuesday! Chartway headquarters employees were invited to experience the joy their charitable partnership brings to children with medical conditions.

Ermias’ father said seeing his son meet his new puppy on Tuesday was a special moment.

“He had a kidney transplant when he was 3, right before his birthday… He spent a lot of time in the hospital,” James McNeal said. “So it’s great to have his wish come true and to see him happy and smiling… He’s growing every day. He’s smart. It’s a blessing to see him like this.”

Both of Ermias’ parents are active duty Navy personnel. They told us their son will start school in the fall.