I received my beautiful new guide Dia at the beginning of July and she is the most clever partner in crime I could have asked for. She is adored by everyone in my family and my community. She loves cruising for pets and playing chase with our other dogs in our large back yard. In the beginning I was concerned for Dia as I have a fairly unique living situation; I live on an island without sidewalks and take a water taxi to school. Dia is fearless, even trying to get on the taxi before me, and as far as routes go, I only have to show her one once and she’s got it down.

I can’t wait to return to my senior year at highschool with Dia, she will no doubt be the most popular girl there. As soon as she sees me pick up her harness her little tail starts wagging and as soon as it’s on, she’s a dog on a mission. She will alert me to things such as curbs and doors as well as being able to find things like the crossing button, elevators, stairs and benches. She is focused, looking out for everything, I am much more confident traveling with her. With Dia’s ability to weave through crowds so smoothly, I know navigating the halls will be much easier than they were with a white cane.

There is so much love and dedication that goes in to raising a rambunctious little puppy in to a highly trained guide dog and I want to thank every one who made our partnership possible; from Dia’s puppy raisers for raising such a genuine sweet dog to Jaime, Dia’s guide dog instructor for training us both, to all the staff, volunteers and donors from BC & Alberta Guide Dogs for supporting us throughout our training. The independence you have provided me is incredible; there are no words for how grateful I am for all your efforts.