Hudson Valley Woman’s Powerful Story on Humans of New York Sparks Massive Support

A woman from the Hudson Valley, who is small business owner in the area, has gotten the spotlight from popular website, Humans of New York.

What is Humans Of New York?

Back when social media was just picking up steam in 2010, a photo project went viral. It was called Humans in New York.

The photo series was started by photographer Brandon Stanton. His goal was to take photos of 10,000 New Yorkers and map it out on the website Tumblr. However, it turned into something bigger.

Stanton took photos of strangers around the city and shared their stories. The stories resonated with millions. Humans of New York took on a life of its own.

Today, the Humans of New York account on social media is updated daily. A recent update put the spotlight on a local Hudson Valley woman and her small business.

Middletown, NY Business Owner Appears on Humans of New York

In a Humans of New York post shared on April 29th, 2026, a local business owner was given the spotlight.

Through Humans of New York we meet Janet who shares her story of struggles of living with an abusive spouse. Janet told HONY that she was 19 when she first started dating him, adding "By the time I saw his true colors it was too late."

Her husband had moved her away from home and put her "through every form of abuse you can imagine."

When Janet finally found the courage to leave, he left her "half-deaf and disabled." But Janet was able to get back home to her parents. She gives her father a lot of credit for getting her back on her feet.

Her first job was working at her parents veterinary office where she would watch over the boarded dogs.

You can read Janet's full story here:

In the post we learn that while she was getting back on her feet, her father encouraged her to start her own mobile grooming business.

Back in 2014, Janet's father gave her the money for a down payment for a van to start Barking Bubbles on The Go.

Her business took off and things we're going really well. Until recently where things took a turn.

Barking Bubbles on The Go Needs a New Van

Earlier this year Janet's mother went into the ICU. Janet took a step back from work to care for her mother.

In that time the generator in the van broke, she tells HONY that it "costs more to fix than to replace, and I can't afford it."

She's currently back living with her father, with her teenaged daughter. Janet says "I feel like I'm failing as a mom, failing completely."

Her dad is still there supporting her every step of the way! Janet has a GoFundMe up and running to help her get a new van.

Since the post on Humans of New York, the page has spiked in popularity and has received thousands of dollars in donations.

The goal of $10,000 was shattered. As of May 4th, 2026, Janet has received $69,654 in donations. You can make a donation today HERE.