VALENTINE, Neb. - A Valentine woman has a unique connection to the Los Angeles wildfires. Hear how her story intertwines with the devastating events in California in this story.

Winter - a season of life most of us face at some point - a time when it’s difficult to see the sun through the clouds of grief.

“There was no reason for me to come home,” said Julie Richardson.

For Julie Richardson of Valentine, the last few months have felt like a never-ending winter.

“It kind of got to where I didn’t want to be around anyone, but I didn’t want to come home because there was nothing to come home to,” said Julie.

Julie lost her husband, Bill, suddenly after a motorcycle crash in August. With her husband gone and her children grown, her once lively home now feels heartbreakingly quiet.

But then, scrolling through social media, Julie saw a photo she couldn’t ignore.

“Bill’s favorite dog was a German Shepherd,” said Julie.

The German Shepherd’s location? A shelter in Los Angeles.

“The survival rate for a dog in a shelter there is 35%,” said Julie.

After much thought and a little encouragement from her daughter, Julie adopted the dog, giving him the second chance he desperately needed. Chaka had been at the shelter for more than a year.

“Bill would love him. He’d have him with him all the time,” said Julie.

What makes the story even more unique? The timing. Chaka left L.A. just one day before the fires broke out.

“Oh my goodness. What it’s like for animals to be out in that. With dogs having such a keen sense of smell, that smoke I think would make all the dogs be under high stress levels,” said Julie.

The shelter told her they’re bracing for an influx of animals because of the families displaced from their homes.

“They’re wanting to get as many animals out in case that were to happen,” said Julie.

Meanwhile, Julie says her new family member is settling in beautifully.

“He deserves a good life,” said Julie.

And it’s not just the dog who’s finding a fresh start. Julie says Chaka is helping her see a glimpse of spring after a long winter.

“These last two weeks have just been wonderful,” said Julie. “It’s nice that I have someone now."