This speech was given at Graduation 2012 by Evan's mom, Allison

Because I'll forget if I don't take care of this at the beginning, I need to start by thanking everyone who has contributed time, money, or time and money (because it takes both) to Canine Angels and the miracle that this organization has been in my family. I especially have to thank Sandy and Sheila who have opened their homes to us, been patient, supportive, and understanding (even through some rather challenging moments). And, I really want to recognize Dale and her family for being Vida's puppy raisers. Thank you!!! This is one amazing organization.

This afternoon, I want to talk to you about labels. I think we're all familiar with them... diagnoses, given by professionals, to describe a particular set of characteristics. And they're helpful... when we need something covered by medical insurance, or are trying to convey a general sense of what our child's needs are.

What a label-a diagnosis-doesn't do is really truly describe who a person is, their specific strengths and challenges. Because for every challenge there is at least one corresponding strength, skill, or talent. And the wonderful thing about a dog is that THEY DON'T SEE LABELS. They see people, the whole person, the whole child. A dog doesn't care if you're in a wheelchair or on the spectrum. As Henry Wheeler Shaw said, "A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love yourself."

Now as a mom, I might take issue with that statement applying to only dogs, but still...

We've had a different path through Canine Angels. Vida was originally matched up with Evan as a Pal back in November 2011. I know Evan is going to get me later for telling this story, but I need to tell you all that Evan is not a huge sleeper. Actually, Evan wasn't much of a sleeper at all. He would sometimes go for 2-3 nights without sleeping. On a good night, he might get 3-4 hours of sleep. And that meant I didn't sleep and we all know that if the mom doesn't get sleep, then the mom's not happy and if mom's not happy, NOBODY'S HAPPY.

But I digress... Vida came back to the hotel with us on the last night of training. She and Evan were curled up in bed and asleep by 10:00 and EVAN SLEPT FOR 9 HOURS!

This trend has continued.

Vida also helps Evan with anxiety and calms him after often difficult days at school. Kids can be mean-especially middle school kids-and Vida is always there at the end of the day to greet Evan with love and a wagging tail. When Evan is upset it's a common sight to see him curled up with Vida on the living room floor.

This morning, I asked Evan how Vida helps him. Direct quotes: "I am not as angry all the time. I am able to sleep better. I always really wanted to have a dog who was just mine, and Vida really understands me."

Vida is a furry cognitive behavioral reminder for Evan. My dad has struggled with the fact that Evan rarely greeted him. We spend a fair amount of time at my parent's house and a common scene would be for Evan to be engrossed in an activity when my dad would arrive home. Evan almost never acknowledged my dad in these situations. These days, Evan might be curled up on the family room sofa with Vida reading a Rick Riordan book, or playing Legos on the family room floor. My dad (or anyone really) enters the room and Vida notices immediately. Evan is so tuned in to Vida that he notices too and now greets the person. It sounds like a small thing, but the difference it has made in several relationships is significant.

To read the rest of Allison's speech, click here: http://www.canine-angels.org/GradStory.html

Evan and Vida 

Isaac was selected to give this year's Graduate Speech  

I love going to class because I love working dogs. My dog is Qismat. I like him because he does everything I tell him to do. Qismat helps me by walking next to me. When he is next to me I do not fall as much as I use to. I feel safe.  

Thank you Canine Angels for Qismat.