That’s when it hit me: this is the end game changing lives, one dog at a time.
I hadn’t seen a puppy in over 23 years until I had the opportunity to join the Canine Companions Program. Growing up, I always felt puppies understood me more than people. I’ve always loved dogs. I’d bring home four or five strays, driving my mom and sister crazy. All I wanted was to play with “my” dogs. In 2009, my sister gave birth to my nephew. Doctors said he’d be developmentally challenged, suffer a brain aneurysm by age five, and if he made it that far, experience seizures and struggle with walking and talking. It’s incredible to say the doctors were wrong. Proof God has the final say in all things. Today, Robert is an energetic, loving 15-year-old. He’s the light of our family and our angel. Through doctor visits, surgeries, and adapting to peers, he’s always carried the biggest smile and the most loving, positive presence. We’re all fiercely protective of our Robby. Joining Canine Companions and learning what we’re doing with these puppies put everything in perspective. How many Robby’s are out there adults with physical disabilities, veterans with hearing loss or PTSD? Canine Companions is empowering them to live with greater independence, making a huge difference in their lives. At first, I just wanted to be part of the program because I loved dogs. But this experience has been humbling and rewarding in ways I never imagined. It’s amazing to know our San Quentin puppies go on to change lives. People like Ben from Portland, Oregon, who was matched with Artemis, one of our first graduating puppies. I was fortunate to be invited to the Zoom meeting between Jared, Ben, and Artemis. That was transformative. All the time, dedication, and hard work we’ve poured into them was worth it. Seeing Artemis with Ben and the proud look on Jared’s face put a smile in my heart. That’s when it hit me: this is the end game changing lives, one dog at a time. As Pippa leaves San Quentin and steps into the career she was destined for, she carries beautiful memories. I’ll miss her more than I can express. Yet I feel proud and excited because I know she’s going to make a difference in someone’s life, just as she has in mine.
What a great article written by Eric. It is clear that this young man has learned a lot through this program and it ready to contribute positively to society. Wish him the best and hopefully he will be out soon.