Pawitforward

More than 12 years ago I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a degenerative neurological condition. I went from being a very active national sports competitor, swimmer, soccer player and rock climber to having difficulty doing the most basic of activities such as walking or holding a cup of tea.

Some days are better than others, some weeks are better than others, I never know what my body is going to do from day to day. Simple colds or illnesses can bring on an attack and I suffer from MS fatigue regularly. This means I am more likely to fall or have other complications. Doing day to day activities sometimes feel like I've run a marathon.

MS is a tricky disease as it can cause a range of symptoms such as blindness, mobility, balance and sensory issues. It can also affect speech, motor processing and cognitive functions. The symptoms depends on where the MS lesion has attacked in the Brain and Spinal Cord. There is no cure but there are medications that help to reduce the number of attacks.

Unfortunately, sometimes the damage from an attack can leave a person with permanent disabilities.

Having an Assistance dog is like having a life line with you constantly. They are trained to help in many different ways, for example, opening doors, helping to balance me when I walk, and helping me to stand up from a seated position. They can also push a button for medical help if needed.

He not only helps me physically, but he is a loving dedicated family member who has brought joy to our family in so many ways. He makes us laugh and cuddles me ( or brings me his chew toys) when I am sad. He is a joy and a special gift in so many ways that words could never convey.

Please help "Paw it forward" so that we can help bring someone else a life changing Guardian Angel: an Assistance dog like Paddy.