As a Husband, What a Guide Dog Means ...

It is apparent what a guide dog means to the person who is blind. What about those who are close to this person. I invited some of those special people in my life to share their perspective. Today is Steve, my fabulous husband of 26 years -- 13 plus of which have been with a guide dog as an integral part of our life. Cricket adores him.

When I think about Becky's guides, I think of the unconditional love they brought with them into our home. The pride they show in their work is inspiring to all who see them; their excitement -- beating you to the door whenever you're about to go somewhere. Then there is the freedom they have brought to us. I think of all the years, Becky commuted 30 miles by bus each day to her job and classes at the University with Pantera at her side through snowy, ice cold winters and wet springs. Pantera made it possible for both of us to further our careers during that period. Now, that Becky works in the evenings, I'm comforted to know that she is not alone. Cricket is there with her at her office. There is, of course, the travel safety factor. Becky walks anywhere with confidence at a normal walking speed without having to worry about obstacles and has taken part in all aspects of our lives as a family. Whether it is work, travel, shopping, events or just enjoying a walk, Becky is right there with us with minimal accomodation, thanks to her guide dog. We've made so many good friends as part of the Guide Dog community. What a great blessing it it so have a guide dog in our lives. I love these dogs and have had so much fun with them in our home. They have added more to our lives than I will ever be able to repay. I thank Guide Dogs for the Blind every day for all that they do to support us and how they've blessed our lives by providing a great guide for my wife and a companion for our family. With love, the other companion.