Graduate Team: Quameisha and Waylon
About the Team: Waylon, a male yellow Lab, is Meisha’s 1st guide dog
Hometown: Raleigh, North Carolina
Guide Dog Mobility Instructor: Amy DiPalo
Meisha graduated from the Governor Morehead School for the Blind in 2010. She comes to Guiding Eyes for her first guide dog, seeking an increased sense of independence and safety. She is currently employed as a sewing machine operator for an organization that manufactures products, while providing resources to blind and visually impaired individuals. Meisha hosts her own podcast, hoping to educate others by sharing her personal experience with blindness. She also journals her experiences on her YouTube channel, documenting her journey before and after getting her guide dog, Waylon.
How would you describe your guide dog? “Waylon is all personality! He is 2 years old and very energetic. When he’s not in harness, Waylon loves to jump and play. He is also very smart and loving.”
What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “I have always had low vision and knew at some point I would be totally blind. When I reached that point, I wanted a guide dog to allow me to maintain my independence. I have several friends that have guide dogs from Guiding Eyes. I was able to witness firsthand their experiences and success.”
How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “Life with Waylon is more adventurous! He has given me the freedom I was seeking. Waylon and I learn something new from each other every day. He amazes me. I make frequent trips to the mall, and everyone is always happy to see Waylon and he receives many compliments. Working with Waylon has been an adjustment; it is like being able to see without seeing!”
Were there any training highlights? “My first walk with Waylon was a real highlight. I had such a feeling of accomplishment and he and I had an instant connection. While we were out walking, we crossed a bridge, which was memorable, too. The staff at Guiding Eyes was amazing from the minute I was picked up at the airport. I felt so welcomed and at home. The students and their dogs are treated so well; everyone goes above and beyond!”
Special Recognition: Waylon was special named by the Manning Family. Click to read and watch a video about the Mannings and Waylon’s litter.Waylon is so lovable and sweet. Going anywhere with Waylon was so fun, because he is so “go with the flow”. Waylon was the sweetest pup and our outings were so fun! He would get so excited to experience new things!
Julie Peschka, Puppy Raisers of Waylon
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