Graduate Team: Donald and Quirrell
About the Team: Quirrel, a male black Lab; Don’s 2nd Guiding Eyes dog
Hometown: Westfield, Massachusetts
Training: June 2026 On-Campus
Don and his wife, Robin, have been married for 42 years. They have two adult sons and one grandchild, named DJ. Don is a Navy veteran who served as a chaplain’s assistant in Jacksonville, Florida, from 1978 to 1982. After his Navy service, he spent six years in the National Guard, serving until 1988. He later worked for the United States Postal Service as a mail handler but was forced to retire after 30 years when macular degeneration affected his vision. Although Don’s peripheral vision is limited and his overall sight is blurry, in his free time, he enjoys following sports and spending time at a local senior center. Quirrel, whom Don affectionately calls “Q,” is his second Guiding Eyes guide dog.
How would you describe your guide dog? “Q is relaxed and very calm. He loves his walks and is always very obedient and playful when not working. He likes to always be around me, like a mother hen.”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “When I pursued care at a Veteran’s low vision clinic, I was given a list, and I applied to four guide dog organizations. The first to get back to me was Guiding Eyes. After checking into their reputation, I learned that all their reviews and comments were great.
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “Q has had a very positive impact on me. He enables me to be active and has quickly become a wonderful companion. He is great company. Without Q, I wouldn’t be doing all the things that I currently do.”
Were there any training highlights? “The entire staff was wonderful. There were three instructors for my class of six. My main instructor, Caroline Walsh, was spectacular and always helpful. She kept on me and made sure Q worked well with me. She targeted my guide dog needs and helped improve my guide dog skills. Chef Rob and his staff were great. I also met Guiding Eye’s CEO, who took time to chat and get to know me. Great experience!”
DOB: 4/10/2024
Litter ID: 5Q24
Color/Breed: Black/Labrador Retriever
Gender: Male
Brood: Ona
Stud: Ira
Littermates: Quidly, Que, Qadira, Quentin
Region: Monroe NY
Regional Puppy Instructor: MeKalea Chambliss
Puppy Raiser: Anne Marie McCabe, Jack Marlowe
Facebook: Monroe Puppy Raisers
Quirrell was our second pup and it was a true honor to raise him. From the very start, he was easy-going and willing to learn. He earned the nickname “ploppy” since he could plop and settle just about anywhere. We are so happy to see him graduate and find his purpose. We wish him success and happiness with his new handler and home. ~ Anne Marie McCabe
