My role as Jen’s (2J06) puppy raiser may be over, but her story is just beginning. Jen is a newly certified Autism Service Dog from the Guiding Eyes Heeling Autism Program. From the moment I saw her beautiful puppy picture hanging across the weigh station at the Guiding Eyes kennel, I knew that great things lay ahead for the lucky child that would soon be hers.

“How can you give up the dog?”  All puppy raisers hear this question every day.

Here’s how.

You let go knowing that the little puppy who kept you awake at night and peed on your new living room carpet will one day significantly change someone’s life forever. To provide safety for an autistic child who has no conception of danger is a great gift. I can do that.

To provide a parent who is willing to travel any distance, meet with any doctor or therapist, read any book, try any new theory, and give up their own career for their child, looking for a means to connect to their own flesh and blood, is a greater gift. I can do that.

To give a child a loyal friend who may help him break the vicious cycle of repetitive behavior or help him interact with other children is the greatest gift  I can do that.

I am a teacher. I provide a foundation that helps people improve their lives in countless ways. It’s what I do. I can do that. Jen is for you, Daniel.

by Connie J. Terry Guiding Eyes for the Blind: S. Tier Region