Profile for Dog Dream Team
My name is Amber, and I am a woman in my early 30s who was born with cerebral palsy. I use a power wheelchair, and need assistance to do many things, even what others consider basic.
As a result, being teamed with a service dog to increase my independence has been a lifelong dream, literally. In late 2009, I relocated to Arizona in search of a healthier, more expanded life. Up to that point, this was the biggest undertaking I had ever tried independently, moving all the way across the country from most of my family and friends. Little did I know that move would be the spark that set another dream into motion.
In early 2010, I discovered a local service dog organization. I was reluctant to ask for information because I was considered "too disabled" for a service dog by the most well-known national organization. This opinion remains an enigma to me. But I took a chance, because that old dream just would not let go of me.
As a result, in late summer 2010, I signed papers and officially began fund-raising for the slightly over $20,000 I would have to raise. I treated this like I would a job; and so in very early 2011, I reached my goal and beyond; well ahead of anyone's schedule, expectations, or hopes. Including mine. This affirms for me that dreams do come true.
But this one will also require work, perseverance, and the acquisition of knowledge. This is the reason for this blog. To share the journey from the very beginning. So that my readers, my dog, and I will all learn and grow together.
In the beginning, I coined the term "dog dream team" in order to motivate people to help me make that dream come true. Now, the same phrase is appropriate for this blog, as I chronicle the journey to become the ultimate working team of canine and human.
What will we see along the way? Let's find out together...
My most recent posts:
- The waiting game (added on 02-16-2011 @ 02:35 PM) Well, I'm still waiting to hear news about my coming canine partner. The organization I'm working with was not expecting me to be done fundraising so quickly, so they were looking for a suitable match…
- In the Begining: Fundraising (added on 02-01-2011 @ 02:31 PM) When I said I was going to start at the very beginning of my service dog journey here, I meant it. Well, almost. Most people would start off with advice about how to pick a…
- The journey begins. (added on 02-01-2011 @ 01:09 PM) My name is Amber, and I am a woman in my early 30s who was born with cerebral palsy. I use a power wheelchair, and need assistance to do many things, even what others…
