How much do we all take our vision for granted? There are the obvious things like being able to see your family, watch TV, read a book, read this blog, but think about all the freedoms you would lose if you woke up one day and couldn't see. How would you occupy your time? What would you do to make money? How would you navigate the simplest of routes? How frustrated would you be to suddenly become fully dependent on your family for even your most basic needs?
Now imagine being given a second chance of sorts, a way to gain some of that freedom back. Well, that gift was given to my Dad in the form of an 85 lb yellow lab courtesy of Guide Dogs for the Blind. On February 2nd at a ceremony held in San Rafael, California my Dad and Claudius celebrated the completion of four weeks of intensive training and let me tell you what a difference a dog makes.
Claudius is the most amazing animal I've ever seen in my life. Besides the fact that he's an absolutely gorgeous dog, he is so amazingly trained that it will completely blow your mind. I swear he has facial expressions. When my Dad puts the harness on the Claudster he stands about four inches taller and you can tell this dog means business...he even walks differently. When he's not "working" he is a loving and sweet pet that my kids have absolutely fallen in love with, well he's a pet we've all fallen in love with.
Besides being a way for my Dad to gain some independence he is also a companion. Someone for my Dad to spend his days with, he's a new best friend and a symbol of second chances.
To the family who raised Claudius and all his trainers, thank you. Thank you for giving us Claudius and for the hope and happiness it has restored in our family. He is an absolute miracle and we are so in love.
Love,
Erin
(Paul's daughter)
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
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