Fundraiser Planned For Blind Doylestown Man Who Needs To Move

Allan Shelly needs to move so he can be with his best friend.

The longtime Doylestown resident says he is being kicked out of his current apartment because that best friend, 14-year-old dog Joey, is no longer welcomed.

Shelly, who is legally blind, has a condition called retinitis pigmentosa, a progressive, degenerative disorder.

Until recently, Joey wasn't only his best friend, he was Shelly's eyes. The seeing eye dog, however, is now retired but still lives with Shelly. "They are best friends and their bond is strong and inspiring," says friend Lauren Zonca on a GoFundMe page created for Shelly.

Unfortunately, Joey, who will be 14 in June, was recently diagnosed with bladder cancer. Because the tumor puts pressure on his bladder, he has occasional accidents.

"Allan has been able to manage with doggie diapers and frequent potty breaks," Zonca explained. But recently, Joey had an accident in the hallway of the apartment building where he and Allan have been living for the past 15 years.

As a result, his landlord said he must get rid of the dog or face eviction.

In an effort to keep the inseparable pair together, Zonca is raising money to help buy Shelly a mobile home in Doylestown. That way, Joey can live out his last days with his best friend, she explained.

Zonca created a GoFundMe page to raise money. The current goal is $30,000, of which $16,075 has been raised as of Monday afternoon.

A picnic fundraiser is planned for Sunday. The Friends of Allan and Joey Family Picnic will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Bucks County Fraternal Order of Police, 1058 Millcreek Road, Wycombe (Newtown on GPS). It is located across from the Publick House.

There will be food, music from a DJ, games, raffles and more. Tickets are $30 a person and $10 for kids 12 and younger.

For tickets or to sponsor the event, email AllanandJoey@gmail.com.