Graduate Team: Jim and Keanu
About the Team: Keanu, a male yellow Lab; Jim’s 1st guide dog
Location: West End, North Carolina
Training: July 2026 On-Campus
Jim is a devoted husband and father of two daughters. In June 2023, his life changed dramatically when he was involved in a serious car accident. As a result of the accident, he suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI), spent six weeks in a coma, and lost his vision. Throughout his recovery, Jim has relied heavily on his deep Christian faith, which has provided him with strength, comfort. Due to the lasting effects of his injuries, Jim is not currently employed, however, remains hopeful that he may have the opportunity to return to work in the future. Jim enjoys taking trips to nearby beaches and mountain destinations, spending time with his family and staying connected to his community. His wife has been a constant source of encouragement and support of his pursuit of increased independence. Passionate about education and advocacy, Jim enjoys visiting local schools to teach children about blindness and to share his personal journey. He is especially excited about expanding these outreach efforts to preschool-aged children and looks forward to having Keanu by his side during these presentations. In addition to his school visits, Jim is active in faith-based community outreach. He often sets up a table in local community college cafeterias, where he engages students in conversation, shares information about blindness, and discusses his faith. Through these activities, Jim hopes to inspire others, raise awareness, and make a positive impact in the lives of those he meets.
How would you describe your guide dog? “Keanu is loving and fun. My relationship with him took off as soon as I got him. He is a pure joy for the entire family. When he sees me stirring in the morning, he nudges me with his nose because he knows it’s time to go to work. He pays attention to any everything I’m doing. He is truly man’s best friend.”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “My orientation & mobility specialist mentioned it to me when she first started helping me use a cane. She could not say enough good things about Guiding Eyes. It was the only place she ever mentioned. So, after 3 years using a cane, I had the motivation to apply to Guiding Eyes.”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “It has provided me an opportunity to be more independent. My family can drop me off somewhere and know that I will be fine with Keanu by my side. That provides me more opportunities, as a result. One time we went where there were a variety of stores. The next time we went there, Keanu went straight into the same pet store that we had been at a few times previously. When we were done, he went directly to the correct door of the van we travelled in.”
Were there any training highlights? “Before my accident, I was not around many blind people, except for maybe a few older folks. After being around other blind people, I learned so much. As far as the training highlights, I was blown away with the process. From the very beginning, it was just so great. I really enjoyed my instructor, Chrissy. She did such a great job and had a wonderful personality. I learned so much from her and everyone. I know it’s their job, but they take the job so seriously and that’s really important to them. We went all over the place, including White Plains, Mt. Kisco, and Poughkeepsie. We went to restaurants, malls and rode escalators and elevators. We took both the bus and train and visited Vassar College. Everyone was really so supportive. Of course, the food was great, along with the chef and servers. I met Keanu’s raisers and we enjoyed a lovely dinner.”
DOB: 7/28/24
Litter ID: 1KK24
Color/Breed: Yellow Labrador Retriever
Gender: Male
Brood: Sasha CES
Stud: Soldier
Littermates: Karma, Kiwi
Region: Eastern MA Puppy Raising Region
Regional Puppy Instructor: Lisa Bumbalo
Puppy Raiser: Michelle Sickles, Susan Stock
Facebook: Eastern Mass Puppy Raisers
When I first saw Keanu, being started by Michelle and TJ, I knew I wanted to raise that puppy. He was so serious-looking, so concerned, but calm and happy. He was a great dog, always willing to try new things, go new places and meet new people. He learned so quickly, I was never hesitant about teaching him and taking him places. Everyone who met Keanu just loved him. He never hesitated to dive into new activities. All his friends are wishing him well in his new job – helping another person! ~ Susan Stock
