When you shop at L&L Paws, or our sister store, L&L Creations, you aren’t just supporting a small business. You’re supporting a journey that has been decades in the making.
Originally, I started with L&L Creations, but as my love for our four-legged friends grew, I knew I had to create a dedicated space just for them. But the question I get asked most is:
“What does the L&L stand for?”
The answer is a story of miracles, family, and the kindness of strangers.
The First “L”: A Legacy of Life (Lily)
My journey with transplants began long ago. In 2002, I received my first kidney transplant, a life-saving gift donated by my incredible Mum. It gave me years of health, but by 2017, I found myself in need of another miracle.
That miracle came in the form of a woman named Michelle. After reading my story on Facebook, she stepped forward to donate her kidney to me. When I asked her, "Why me?", she simply said she noticed I was a huge Harry Potter fan—and so was she.
Transplant patients often name their "new beans," and given that a selfless act of love brought us together, I named my kidney Lily, after the Gryffindor hero, Lily Potter. It is because of my Mum and Michelle that I am here today, living life to the fullest and pursuing my passion for dogs.
The Second “L”: My Reason Why (Lucy)
The second "L" stands for Lucy, my gorgeous granddaughter.
For a long time, I faced the very real fear that I wouldn't be here to see my grandchildren. But because of the love of my family and the kindness of a stranger, I get to be a "Granny." I get to watch my energetic, strong-willed granddaughter grow up, and that is a gift I never take for granted.
One Name, Two Passion Projects
The "L&L" identity started with L&L Creations, my original shop for human-centred gifts. As I found my stride and my health, I realized I wanted to separate my "furry friend" lines from my human ones—and thus, L&L Paws was born.
Both stores carry the same name because both stores carry the same heart. Every order helps me celebrate the life I was given and the family (both blood and "Potterhead" soul-sisters) that made it possible.
Thank you for being a part of my story and supporting my dream.
Visit our sister store: L&L Creations