My daughter's mother is in Oakville for 9 days taking training for my daughter's new autism assistance dog.
We sat on a waiting list for 14 months but the time has come.
I can't describe how my daughter feels other than ecstatic. I haven't seen her this agreeable or happy.
Many thanks goes out to the Lions Foundation of Canada for this opportunity.
@LFCDogguides on Twitter.
www.dogguides.com.
If you have the opportunity to visit, I suggest you do. Also, go to one of their open houses, they are fantastic. It will amaze you to see what guide dogs can provide for those in need.
Her dog will provide so many levels of assistance to her.
The most relevant of these being a special bond and companionship. Which, for parents of an "aspie-rational" child, is one of the most important things that can be provided.
Aspergers children often find difficulty in socializing, not for lack of effort on my daughter's part. She is, surprisingly, a social butterfly. As expected, there are always challenges, but she never gives up.
But when it gets a little overwhelming, her dog will always be there for her. It will never turn it's back or be insulted or shocked but what she may say or do.
For this, as a family, we feel blessed.
I can ramble on for hours about AADs but I won't. Well, I will in a future entry. Once I gather everything I need, I will tell you more, as well as update you on progress.
But for now, I just want to say thank you to the Lions Foundation for this incredible gift and urge everyone to visit, learn about and, most importantly support this wonderful organization.
The time and effort these people put in to fostering, training and caring for these animals... No, not animals, rather angels or members of families, is unmatched.
So thank you again to them and anyone that reads this and feels inspired or moved.
And one other note, the timing is impeccable as we recently lost the family dog, George, which left a deep wound to both of my children. We were all devastated and miss him very much.
So on top of all the great things this new family member will provide, it will also help to fill a void.
Anyways, signing off again. Until next time...
