It feels good to know I can be a part of their journey to a better life.
Meeting Daisy, a golden Anatolian Shepherd, for the first time was a profound experience—one that reshaped my outlook on life. I had the responsibility of training her so she could find a forever home, and in that process, she ended up teaching me far more than I taught her.
Daisy had the kind of joy and optimism I could only dream of rubbing off on me—she was happy all the time, a true light to be around. I am serving life without the possibility of parole. At just 21 years old, I was arrested for my life crime, having lived a very selfish lifestyle up until that point. Through the years, I have strived to make amends daily by living a life of service. That journey led me to the dog training program at Pleasant Valley State Prison, where we work with shelter dogs who have endured terrible trauma.
When I started, I didn’t realize how much it would mean to me. I had always liked animals from a distance but had never experienced the responsibility of caring for one. That all changed, and so did I. Training dogs like Daisy has been empowering and deeply meaningful. To be part of their healing—to see their potential and help them achieve it—gives me a sense of purpose I never thought I would find. These dogs, so full of love and resilience despite their struggles, remind me every day that we all deserve a chance to heal, grow, and find joy again. It feels good to know I can be a part of their journey to a better life. God bless you!
