When Ryan Jessen, 33, died unexpectedly from a brain hemorrhage, hospital staff made an unexpected gesture.
"The hospital was so kind to us and let us bring my brother's dog in to'say goodbye' so she could understand why her human never came home." Ryan's sister Michelle wrote on her Facebook page, "If you knew my brother, you knew how much he loved his sweet dog."
While the video capturing Ryan and his dog Molly's tender moment was intended for the family circle, it received worldwide attention.
"Others' stories, their sharing in our sadness, and the kindness of so many people have deeply touched and humbled us," Michelle writes.
Molly the bereaved dog is in good hands, according to Ryan's sister: "Don't worry about the dog!" We will keep her!!! She's a family member." Ryan's donor heart is about to save the life of a 17-year-old, Michelle added, just in time for Christmas.