Graduate Team: Cheryl and Helix
About the Team Helix, a black Lab male, is Cheryl’s 7th guide dog
Location: Wallkill, New York
Training: January 2026, Home Training
Cheryl is an award-winning podcaster recognized by Amazon during Women’s History Month 2024, an accomplished multi-genre author of children’s books and cozy mysteries, an educator, motivational speaker, and leader of collaborative Virtual Summits and Symposiums that bring professionals together to share knowledge, insight, and inspiration. Through her writing, speaking, and teaching, Cheryl empowers others to reclaim confidence, creativity, and independence. She has partnered with Guiding Eyes dogs since 1994, when she received Pearl, her first black Lab. Over the years, she became an ambassador for Guiding Eyes, sharing its mission from the lived perspective of someone whose life has been profoundly shaped by the partnership. She also raised a Guiding Eyes puppy and is a member of the Pathfinder Society. Cheryl was most recently matched with Helix, a male black Lab and “special name” guide dog named by a generous donor. She credits Guiding Eyes dogs with restoring her confidence and enabling her to live boldly, fully, and independently.
How would you describe your guide dog? “He has been absolutely amazing! This was the longest time I’ve gone without a guide dog. My trainer, Kat Poallo, knows me very well and was keeping an eye out for the right fit. She just knew he was for me. I wanted a tall dog because I am 5’9″ and he is 82 lbs. He gives me confidence with his sturdy gait. He has a good pull, and we are completely tuned into each other. When I picked up the harness, it was great! One of my previous guide dogs, Gregg, was the same way; amazing from the time we picked up the harness. However, it’s important to know that even with a perfect fit, sometimes you’ll need to work on something. I’ve had to ask for help every time my vision has shifted. Even Gregg didn’t like to back up, and one of the trainers taught me how to get him to do that. If we allow ourselves to become stressed about something, the dog will feel that down the leash, so don’t ever be afraid to ask for help!”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “I received my first guide dog from Guiding Eyes in 1994. I didn’t know anything about guide dogs, but after my second detached retina, I decided I would get one. I was in the car with a friend and heard on the radio about the Walk-a-thon. I went and talked to the people there. I met those in charge of the guide dog program, and they encouraged me to apply. I applied in October and was in class by February! I didn’t know any other school. They gave me Pearl, a 60 lb. female black Lab; my first guide dog. I just cannot say enough about Guiding Eyes and what they have done for me.”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “I started losing my vision as an adult, which was very challenging. However, as soon as I got my first guide dog, I scheduled a vacation in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. I met so many people there and had the best vacation I’d ever had! I ended up becoming an ambassador for Guiding Eyes and started meeting with donors and giving talks at schools. In 2014, I published my first book and later went on to author many children’s books. It all goes back to guide dogs and the confidence I gain from trusting them. I trust them more than people, even my husband, because a guide dog will always remember to keep a close eye on my surroundings to keep me safe. I walk with more confidence and can go places and do things I would never do without a guide dog.”
Were there any training highlights? “I am always known for wearing high-heeled boots – I don’t go over an inch and a half, but the pitch of a higher heel works best for me. I’m much more comfortable walking in them than in sneakers. One training day, we went to the Galleria Mall, and I decided to try wearing sneakers, but I just couldn’t walk in them! Trainer Kat Poallo knows me well, and she knew why. I bought a pair of Brooks sneakers with a little bit of a platform, and then I was fine! Another thing we laughed about was that because I’ve been with Guiding Eyes for so long, I had worked with former Director of Training, Kathy Zubrycki, a wonderful trainer. There were things I did that my trainer could tell had come from learning with Kathy! In working with Guiding Eyes, I feel very much a part of a family. I was also very excited to hear the new President & CEO, Chris Perry, speak at my graduation about the puppies and all the love involved in their upbringing. I’m very excited for this new chapter for Guiding Eyes!”
DOB: 2/25/2024
Litter ID: 8H24
Color/Breed: Black/Labrador Retriever
Gender: Male
Brood: Dana
Stud: Henry
Littermates: Heathie, Hogan, Horizon, Harmony, Hawk, Halsey, Herbert, Happy
Region: Southwestern VT
Regional Puppy Instructor: Kate Gardner
Puppy Raiser: Rachael Bell, Cayla Hammaker
Facebook: Vermont Puppy Raisers
Special Recognition: Helix was special named by Beacon Therapeutics, whose mission is to save and restore vision in patients with prevalent and rare retinal diseases.
We are so excited to see Helix find his partner! He was such a joy to raise, with boundless enthusiasm and the most lovable, affectionate personality. We miss his company and the energy he brought to each day, but are thrilled to see him step confidently into his role as a guide dog. We know he will be a source of loving companionship and reliable support for his partner, and we wish them a happy, successful journey filled with many joyful days and new adventures together. ~ Cayla Hammaker
