tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13179832010922298312024-03-05T14:39:40.581-05:00Life With Tippywendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-19471685415942350862013-02-11T10:54:00.002-05:002013-02-11T10:54:55.151-05:00MY FIRST YEAR WITH TIPPY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">MY FIRST YEAR WITH
TIPPY</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This Wednesday, February 13<sup>th</sup>, will be the one year
anniversary of my partnership with Tippy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As I look back over the year, I remember the emotion with which I faced
our adventures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">From the moment I met Tip, he has blessed me with the eye contact that
assures me that all will be okay, that he’s “in it” with me, no matter what we
may encounter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, that has definitely
been the case.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wasn’t sure how I would
handle a new partner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would I be able to
love him as I did my first partner?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Would he be able to “read” me the same?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Would he be able to fit into my life as seamlessly?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within the first hour of our meeting, all my
concerns were put to rest.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I felt like I
had been partnered with him for years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The love I felt for him, and he for me was nearly palpable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It still amazes me that this can happen
almost instantaneously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It felt as
though he could sense my confidence that lay just below the surface, and
allowed it to rise to the occasion until it felt natural once again. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fact that he was so laid back, and prefers
to wait for direction was just what I needed at that time.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Training was actually exciting, as I watched Tippy look to me for
guidance, and then carry out exactly what I asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both Tippy and Richie, my classmate Andy’s
pup, were amazing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I often look back and
feel that they led us through the training.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Brian was a great teacher for us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As the 2 dogs were products of the same prison program, Concord “Farm” (NECC),
they had trained together, with Brian as their trainer and so our class was a
great adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I feel that Andy and I
were blessed with these 2 absolutely amazing dogs.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Service Dogs, that is, and that is exactly what Tippy has been for me
this last year….among so many other “titles”!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Service Dog, Life Coach, Travel Companion, Cheer Master, Confidence
Builder, Confidant, Snuggle Buddy, Heating Pad, Physical Support, Life
Saver….both literally and figuratively…., and perhaps, most of all, Best
Friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tippy has slept through church
services, attended dinners, kept me calm during flights, and been by my side,
as I continue my work with the US Pain Foundation, while I speak and testify in
support of the rights of people living with chronic pain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to mention here that the latter would
not be possible without Tippy, and my classmate from my first NEADS class who
introduced me to this new me….the one that is not terrified of speaking in
public.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Tippy has accompanied me as I testified in New Jersey, Rhode Island,
before the FDA in DC, and as we traveled to St. Louis to speak to a group of
employees from a major pharmaceutical company about what it is like being a
person living with chronic pain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has
been by my side when I was interviewed for both television and print.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has entertained children and adults alike
with demonstrations of his amazing skills, along with some “fun” behaviors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We just returned from DC, where once again he proved to be my
distraction from self imposed stress.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
actually don’t get stressed any more before speaking, but looking at him lets
me know that everything will work out just fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This time, when I walked up to the table to
testify, Tippy automatically went under the table, turned around and lay there
waiting for me to finish and begin to rise when he, too, rose and stood at my
side so I could brace myself to stand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No
commands were necessary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is what is
meant by seamlessly fitting into my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He delighted the hotel staff with his behaviors and personality, and
made a long 4 days more like a vacation than work….</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Bangle; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The bottom line is….would I have rather not gotten ill?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Absolutley!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But, had I not, I would not have received Tippy, and found out what I am
truly capable of….a whole new life, truly enhanced by the blessing of my
Service Dog, Tippy, and my new family at NEADS…..</span></div>
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<![endif]--><br />wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-78085066482206249462012-12-30T23:11:00.000-05:002012-12-30T23:11:11.058-05:00It's Been Too Long......<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdJdF_ob5N5OGdQ6JH4wWoxqG1QDVBAGAxquQ1e2T4CRyPMyHSkHMP09gpgoc5NYEya6KTTKH8gEj9FnrOlNqtAVk1RcvY8QZI9ibQVN26vzJlP-M9UFtLN13oyLCafyngF4y5adVZgmiL/s1600/WP_000069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdJdF_ob5N5OGdQ6JH4wWoxqG1QDVBAGAxquQ1e2T4CRyPMyHSkHMP09gpgoc5NYEya6KTTKH8gEj9FnrOlNqtAVk1RcvY8QZI9ibQVN26vzJlP-M9UFtLN13oyLCafyngF4y5adVZgmiL/s320/WP_000069.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I wanted to begin with this photo of my 28 month<span style="font-size: large;">s old granddaughter, Maddy. I believe that the holiday season is about innocence at it's core. We never gave many gifts at home when the children were small. </span> <span style="font-size: large;">Not only was it kinder on the finances of a young family, moreover, w</span>e felt it was important that the<span style="font-size: large;">y understood wh<span style="font-size: large;">at Christmas truly is. A birthday. The birthday. I used to tell <span style="font-size: large;">Bethany, Aa<span style="font-size: large;">ron, and Emily,</span></span> that we were fortunate that Jesus chose to share such a special day with each of us.<span style="font-size: large;"> May we all enjoy the innocence of a child<span style="font-size: large;">.......</span></span> </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It has been 2 1/2 months since my last pos<span style="font-size: large;">t. I had a very difficult late summer and fall with my health. The 2 previous summers I found myself in the ICU at the end of August due to breathing issues. Since all of m<span style="font-size: large;">y issues stem from my ever weakening proximal muscles, the stress of dealing with heavy(humid) summer air leads to my being unable to take in adequate breaths.....thus, I find myself in a panic situation. This year, I refused to be admitted, agreed to breathing treatments and IV fluid<span style="font-size: large;">s in the ER, and came home when I felt I was out of the woods. I was able to continue the breathing treatments round the clock at home, <span style="font-size: large;">in a much calmer atmosphere.</span> Unfortunately, this also me<span style="font-size: large;">ant that I wasn't able to rest enough and the exacer<span style="font-size: large;">bation hung on well into <span style="font-size: large;">autum<span style="font-size: large;">n. After several courses of antibiotics, and much prednisone, my breathing was less labored and I could begin to enjoy <span style="font-size: large;">life again. Thank God that I had Tippy by my side all the while. I <span style="font-size: large;">struggle with severe depression <span style="font-size: large;">due to my health issues, and without him it would have been extremely easy for me to sink into a <span style="font-size: large;">"funk". There is most definitely something to be said for the look of a Lab, that unconditional love and approval that only a dog can provide. The warmth of his eyes, and of his snuggle close beside yo<span style="font-size: large;">u.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I pretty much went from being sick and <span style="font-size: large;">"down for the count" to up and going with responsibilities for US Pain(which I t<span style="font-size: large;">ruly had missed during my "hiatus"), NEADS graduation, Thanksgiving, being present for the Essex(CT) Rotary "table" at the "Ivoryton Illuminations, then of course events leading up to....and including Christmas<span style="font-size: large;">!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I have to say that the highlight of the fall season was most definitely NEADS graduation. It's always an event <span style="font-size: large;">I look forward to, but this one was extra special....perhaps even including my own graduations with Alli and then Tippy. Not only was Tip's WPR(We<span style="font-size: large;">ekend Puppy Raiser) Anne<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">-M</span>arie in attend<span style="font-size: large;">ance, but the couple who named <span style="font-size: large;">him was also present! Tippy was named by Andrea, whose fat<span style="font-size: large;">her had had a dog named Tippy as a young man. <span style="font-size: large;">This is why I think it's so special that people donate to NEADS to name a puppy<span style="font-size: large;">. The names come from a variety of origins, but I personally like it when <span style="font-size: large;">a name is chosen to honor a loved one who has passed. That way, the <span style="font-size: large;">name continues to "live on". As in Tippy's case, Andrea's father has passed away, but the name of his beloved pet as a child is once again making it's way in the world. How special is that<span style="font-size: large;">?</span> Now that I know the reason for his name, "Tippy" is <span style="font-size: large;">perfect.....just as perfect as he is. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I had 3 trips this fall for US Pain. The first was in Connecticut, supporting open access to all pain medications shown<span style="font-size: large;"> to be effective<span style="font-size: large;"> to be on the Medicaid Formulary. I testified for "Neur<span style="font-size: large;">o-</span>pathic<span style="font-size: large;"> pain" medications. The committee approved the proposed meds. Next, Mark and I traveled to Washington, D.C. to testify befor<span style="font-size: large;">e the FD<span style="font-size: large;">A committee regarding a "New<span style="font-size: large;"> Drug Application" for a pain med. <span style="font-size: large;">It</span> was actually<span style="font-size: large;"> a bit more controversial than I expected....and the committee did not approve the application. The FDA does not always take the committee's decision, but I believe this time they will. The pharmaceutical company was told to <span style="font-size: large;">create a safer <span style="font-size: large;">means of dispensing, i.e. more difficult to abuse.<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We <span style="font-size: large;">were in D.C. for <span style="font-size: large;">3 days,</span> Thursday to <span style="font-size: large;">Saturda</span></span></span></span></span></span>y<span style="font-size: large;">. </span><span style="font-size: large;"> I <span style="font-size: large;">then </span>went to RI, accompanied by Emily, the following Tuesday to make a statement on Wednesday for US Pain <span style="font-size: large;">before</span> a committee similar to the one in Connecticut</span></span>. While it was a whi<span style="font-size: large;">rlwind few weeks, I do love to get away, and <span style="font-size: large;">it's quite fulfilling knowing that I am <span style="font-size: large;">hopefully able to make a positive difference in the lives of chronic pain sufferers.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Being with the<span style="font-size: large;"> Rotary for the lighting of the Christmas lights i<span style="font-size: large;">n</span> our very small town felt right on so many levels. I will always help the Rotary when asked, both because they are a great service organization, and because they donated $8,500 toward the partnership between Tippy and me. <span style="font-size: large;">Bishop's Orchard donated</span> 1,000 cider doughnuts <span style="font-size: large;">to the Rotary to </span>give out at the eve<span style="font-size: large;">nt. They had a table in the Ivoryton Inn, and as it turned out<span style="font-size: large;">, "Guiding Eyes of Southeaster<span style="font-size: large;">n Ct" happened to be right next to us at a right angle. Th<span style="font-size: large;">e <span style="font-size: large;">tw<span style="font-size: large;">ist is that Tippy is a product of the Guiding Eyes breeding program. He was never <span style="font-size: large;">"in" the <span style="font-size: large;">training program. When puppies in their litters are not the <span style="font-size: large;">desired <span style="font-size: large;">temperament, <span style="font-size: large;">"GE's<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">" offers them to other Service Dog organizat<span style="font-size: large;">ions for a fee. Alli was actually a GE's dog too. Tippy would not have been a good guide for the blind because he prefers to wait for direction, he doesn't like to make mistakes. A guide dog for the blind, needs to be a dog who can lead,<span style="font-size: large;"> take charge,</span> waiting for direction could be dangerous for his<span style="font-size: large;">/her partner. <span style="font-size: large;">W</span>e were graced by the presence of 3 puppies that GE's <span style="font-size: large;">puppy raisers brought for their organization<span style="font-size: large;">, 2</span> yellow Labs, and 1 black Lab. SO CUTE!!! </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Finally, let me finish with the absolute joy I shared with Tippy in the fresh snowfall <span style="font-size: large;">yesterday and today. I'm sure there will be a lot more happy days shared in the snow, but I want to share a <span style="font-size: large;">picture and a video that I too<span style="font-size: large;">k today....10 1/2<span style="font-size: large;">" of pure white bliss lends itself to the best medicine there is<span style="font-size: large;">....laughter!!!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">This first one has Tippy doing the "<span style="font-size: large;">Snow Dog Shimmy"</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwDK4rWiWxEm6-23GfhHo6_ftFVwy854rBVnUEwwdOEbVcAQR23lMLdiwz4hxf2qk6PtRzy-ZAEVogUAWnLbw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Next, th</span>is photo shows the caring<span style="font-size: large;">, loving, face of my best friend, my partner......</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0YLEVI71E4BecAzb-mKxBfy_X3e9_g7Jkny6xCXiowCCNYc3SM9aVKkW88FZMiBjjKgsYYeVTaZ5Oh_m9o1xiZw7MaapXMIMMpbspdNoJp6SMDhqoFxeqi-Dl882CUltcSbTd4gtB4Ae-/s1600/IMGP2267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0YLEVI71E4BecAzb-mKxBfy_X3e9_g7Jkny6xCXiowCCNYc3SM9aVKkW88FZMiBjjKgsYYeVTaZ5Oh_m9o1xiZw7MaapXMIMMpbspdNoJp6SMDhqoFxeqi-Dl882CUltcSbTd4gtB4Ae-/s320/IMGP2267.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!</span> </span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-37360191973633784702012-10-16T09:27:00.001-04:002012-10-16T09:27:25.665-04:00Sometimes You Have To Decide If Pushing Ahead Is Worth The Illness At The End.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This has been a tough month physically, but it has also been a month of growing. I started with the usual sinus infection. I knew, just like I did the thousand other times, that I needed my antibiotics. I actually had to convince the ER doc that this is the way it always starts, and that I have to begin the meds right away, or the infection turns into a major event. My problem, when I get ill, is that if it attacks my respiratory system I'm screwed. I have both asthma, and due to my proximal myopathy, I also have restrictive lung disease. That means I can't breath in and I can't breath out. Obviously, that can pose a bit of a problem. Several days later, I finally thought I was turning the corner towards getting well. Wrong! One day after that I began feeling worse than I did to begin with. I tried to stay down, home, away from stray germs thinking that I could beat it. I ended up at my doctor's office on a Saturday morning. He put me on a much stronger antibiotic. Once again I tried to stay down, aside from a couple of medical appointments, and a couple plans I had made dealing with NEADS and/or Tippy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">On Wednesday, the 3rd, Tippy and I along with my good friend Cindy went to Boston to volunteer at WBUR, 90.9, their public radio station. It was their annual pledge event to help support their programming. I had never done anything like this, but actually enjoyed the day. I'm always game to do something for NEADS as a way of helping to pay forward what they have meant to me. As I said, I enjoyed speaking with those calling in to pledge who told me how they donate every year. I enjoyed the tour of the station, and spending time speaking with the staff about our dogs. We were there in shifts, so the picture below doesn't show all who participated. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, as it turns out, while I felt good emotionally helping the radio station and NEADS.....for every 3 people NEADS had at the event, the station would mention the organization on air.....it was probably the worst thing I could have done for my health. It was a damp, drizzly day, and we had needed to rise early for the 2 hour drive. Even though we left almost on time, we still had fast-food for breakfast, and I felt rushed until we arrived. I had not felt well from the time I got up, and was certain that I'd be "ill" sometime during the day. I hate that feeling. It's that feeling that if I could just get sick, I might feel better, but I never found out and just felt lousy all day. We had a 2 hour drive home but stopped on the Mass Pike for a bite to eat at a Boston Market. I was going to have something substantial hoping that it may make me feel better but, after thinking of the long drive home stuck in the car, I settled on a bowl of chicken soup....YAY!!! Oh my gosh did that hit the spot! I promised myself that I would stay down all day Thursday, Tippy's 2nd birthday, because he and I had a big day on Friday.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Of course I did not stay down on Thursday. I had already planned on baking for Friday. I had requested, and been approved, to take Tippy to the prison where he was trained for his birthday. While I wasn't allowed to bring a cake to the prison, I did decide that I would bake something to take to NEADS on the way home. As I said, I wanted to take Tippy to the prison for his birthday. The way I look at it, they actually knew him longer than I have so far, and I really wanted to let them know what it means to me to receive a dog that they put so much time and love into. Tippy also spent his 1st birthday with them, and I really wanted to celebrate his 2nd with someone. I spent Thursday running around picking up the ingredients I needed for my baking. I settled on a Pumpkin Spice bread for the "humans" at NEADS, and Pumpkin-Peanut Butter dog treats for their dogs. For once, I actually baked enough to leave a loaf at home. The recipe made 2 loaves and I left the smaller one at home. The dog treats came out great! I bent a cookie cutter that was shaped like a flower into the shape of a dog bone. I love to bake! When I had to stop teaching, I had planned on doing baking on the side. I have been baking for years and actually got pretty good at using fondant. Unfortunately, by the time I stopped teaching I wasn't strong enough to knead, whether it was bread dough or fondant. I've been baking pies since I was six thanks to my grandmother. Always from scratch, and using knives and forks to mix....."just like grandma used to make". I rarely stray from the back to basics way of baking. Anyway, I now use the bread machine to knead my doughs....or my daughter....and try to bake more often, but am usually up to it when asked.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Back to Friday, the 5th. I've tried to post this since Saturday or Sunday the 6th/7th but between being sick and sick of a laptop which doesn't choose to work half the time now it's been near impossible. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The visit to the prison was amazing! It was so good to be around those who know Tippy's personality.....really know it. When I give Tip a command, he just about always does it....rarely does he look at me and decide, "I think not". But, what he does do is analyze the command and decide how to do it the best way possible. This often results in the appearance of being lazy or slow. He's not. He just is very deliberate in everything he does. I loved the chuckles I heard as I "put him through his paces!" I loved hearing the memories the inmates have of Tippy's time with them. I had a couple of questions, one of them about a behavior I'm trying to get him to do and Tippy's "back up trainer", who happens to still be in the program offered solutions. I explained what exactly Tippy does for me, how that has fit into my activities, and how he has enhanced my life. The gentlemen were interested in Tip's experiences when testifying with me. They especially got a kick out of how he picks up his leash when he's ready to go and looks at me with "that look!" He doesn't get up, he just lets it be know...albeit very quietly and subtly....that he is ready to go at any time. I enjoyed hearing the stories about the puppies the men have now, their personalities, etc. One of the times when I dropped something and asked Tip to "fetch", he very deliberately followed the command. One of the inmates, with a good sized pup said that his dog would have attacked the item to be fetched, not gone slowly as Tippy does. It was wonderful to see the love the men have for their charges, how proud they are of the dog's abilities, and obvious that they were, in turn, getting that unconditional love that only a dog can provide. I really wish that I had remembered to ask to have our picture taken with the inmates. I had put my phone in Tippy's vest just for that reason. I'm not sure whether they would have approved the pic, but I really had wanted to include one here. The service these men provide really can't be measured, at least not until one sees the before and after of the client upon receiving their partner. I spoke to the men about my desire to get involved in "Rally-O" with Tippy. Rally-O(I can't remember if I've explained it in an earlier post..)is an activity where the handler and their dog maneuver through a course which has commands/direction posted along the way. I explained that Tippy is so great at following his directions that although I don't believe we'd do well "times wise", I do believe we'd be amazing at performing the tasks. At this point I actually got up....the men got to see how Tippy helps me up from a chair....and gave him a series of commands....which he followed perfectly! They seemed happy and quite proud at his abilities and his unbelievable eye contact as he performed whatever was asked.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I apologize if this has come out disjointed, but between writing it on 3 different occasions, and currently being on 30mg of codeine sulfate every 4 hours 'round the clock, along with my reg meds and inhalers, I'm feeling a bit disjointed myself. I ended up at the ER once again at the end of this busy day, and eventually had to put a call into my pulmonologist's office as my muscles were just getting way too tired to continue breathing.....I know, but it seems that breathing is kind of important.....</span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> so that my diaphragm can get a bit of a rest.</span> **(Despite my breathing difficulties, I have never needed to be intubated, and really, really, don't plan on it!!!! Also, when I enter the ER, I do so with the announcement that I will not go to the hospital. This hasn't always turned out to be true, but most of the time I end up going home!) Thank God that's what my doc did. </span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-81219742201836680382012-10-02T21:29:00.000-04:002012-10-02T21:29:06.418-04:00Amazing Grace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">That saved a wretch like me.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I once was lost, but now am found,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Was blind but now I see.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">'Twas Grace that taught my heart to fear,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And Grace my fears relieved.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">How precious did that Grace appear,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The hour I first believed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Through many dangers, toils, and snares,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have already come.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">'Twas Grace that brought me safe thus far,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And Grace will lead me home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When we've been here ten thousand years,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Bright shining as the sun,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We've no less days to sing God's praise,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Than when we first begun.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">That saved a wretch like me,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I once was lost, but now am found,</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Was blind, but now I see......</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Every morning when I get into the shower, I automatically sing Amazing Grace. I don't think about it, I just do it. I find that on days that I'm not doing well, I realize I didn't sing. I'm not sure when I started doing it, but I know that it was the song that I sung when rocking my youngest child. The odd thing is that when she was just 2 years old, my muscular disorder kicked in. When I had Alli, I would get into the shower close the door, and begin to sing. EVERY DAY she would get up, move to the bathmat just outside the shower, curl up and snooze. As soon as I shut off the shower, she would get up, move back onto the rug, and lay down. And, EVERY DAY I would say, "Do you honestly think I don't know you move?" With Tippy, the same thing happens with the exception of the final move. He moves to the mat when I begin singing, but doesn't bother moving when I'm done. In fact, I have to talk him into moving out of the way so I can step out. However, in both cases, if I don't sing, neither of the dogs would move. I'm not sure if it means they like it or not. I'm pretty sure Tip finds it calming. I know it settles me, comforts me with warmth though I don't think about it until after....interesting......</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On Friday, my friend Cindy and I are taking Tippy back to the prison in which he was trained. His birthday is Thursday and I thought it would be nice to share with the inmates, the gentlemen, what he has been doing these last 7 months. I am so looking forward to it. They are responsible for this amazing creature being the Godsend that he is, so I really think its apropos.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Until later, feel the Grace that fills us all........ </span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-71268328329462740182012-09-23T19:57:00.001-04:002012-09-23T19:57:15.550-04:00What Would I Do Without Tippy.......?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">September is National Assistance Dog month. It has caused me to sit back, and take stock of my life. I tried to think about where I might be had Alli, my first Service Dog, not come to me when she did. I truly believe in Fate....I think everything happens for a reason. There is a saying that the best days of your life are yet to come. Well, the best days of my life have been, with the exception of the birth of my 3 children and 1 grandchild, since the onset of my illness in 1992. I'm excited knowing that with all the good that has come to me....the best is yet to come! It has been difficult, even at the best of times, to function with an unknown illness attacking my muscles progressively. However, the experiences I've had and the lessons I've learned because of this illness have been invaluable. Do I wish I didn't have this illness, of course, but I honestly don't think I'd change anything in my life. I think I'm a far "better" person with it than without, and believe that I will accomplish more now than I ever could have. But, back to Tippy....and of course, Alli. When I went for training with Alli in Nov. of '09, I met 3 classmates that will forever be a part of my life, a part of who I am. I have never been a "woe is me" gal, and have actually functioned as though I have no disability as much as I can. It takes a toll not only on your body, but your mind and soul as well when you try to deny it's existence. But my classmates taught me that while I am a person with a disability, a chronic pain survivor, it doesn't have to define me as an individual. Before Alli, I had taught Pre-K and at times 4 yrs. olds for 26 years. I have always been able to speak with and interact with children, but nearly always shied away from adults.....a definite result from lack of self-confidence, and not the greatest self-esteem. Since receiving Alli, however, I love being out in public. I have so much more self-confidence/esteem than I ever thought I would. I am so proud to have the company and unconditional love of my Service Dog. (I always say that we've got a mutual unconditional love thing going on!!!) I have found my voice, and a great way to share it. What began with Alli, now continues with Tippy. I volunteer with the US Pain Foundation helping to make a difference in the lives of chronic pain survivors. We, Tippy and I, have testified before House and Senate committees on patients' rights. Particularly, the insurance practice of "Step Therapy/Fail First", and "Specialty Tiers". In Connecticut, in 2010, Alli and I, </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">along with other advocates</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">, spoke with legislators . We were successful, and in late Summer of that year Governor Malloy signed the bill, creating a new law prohibiting insurance companies from requiring patients to try and fail on other pain medications before approving the initial medication that the physician prescribed. It was the first such law in the nation. I never in a million years would have imagined myself in this position. It was the furthest thing from my mind before being partnered with my first Service Dog. I also love to volunteer at NEADS events. I have a whole new life thanks to NEADS, one which is so enhanced by the addition of a partner, Tippy. I love.....and I have to add here that Tippy also loves and thrives on, sharing the NEADS story with others. Not only do I love telling everyone, anyone, about this wonderful organization, I also love showing them what a Service Dog is capable of providing for their partner. Tippy is so focused on me when he's working,(and when he's not) that it's almost always remarked by onlookers. He loves practicing his skills and behaviors, and for the most part he never balks. Since he takes his obedience so seriously, I think we're going to try "Rally-O". Rally Obedience is an activity whereby an individual with their dog navigates a course with obedience skills tested throughout. There are signs, every few yards, with specific behaviors written on them. The handler is encouraged to speak to the dog often, encouraging them to follow the given directions as well as praising the dog for a job well done. Tippy looks at me so intently, not wanting to make a mistake, that you can almost see the wheels turning as he processes the commands. Again, another activity I would not be doing were it not for my Service Dog. I didn't know this existed when I had my "pet" dogs, but again, it's part of the new world that has opened up before me. The added, and totally unexpected, benefit is Tippy's ability to alert me to the onset of a migraine before I'm even aware it's coming. I have chronic severe a-typical migraines, which in at least 3 cases proved to be mild strokes. Alli began alerting me to this after we were together for a year. When I was matched with Tippy in February I hoped that he would do it within the first year as well. He actually began doing it after just 3 months. He doesn't get them all, but we've only been partners for seven months, so I guess he's ahead of the game already. As did Alli, Tippy wears my med container on his collar which I'm sure helps him to sense the correlation.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, where would I be without a Service Dog for my partner? I would be merely existing...not living my life to the fullest! I know I would not be enjoying these years, as I now do, always looking to the future and what it might hold....</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">A future....that's what NEADS has provided, when matchng me with a Service Dog.... not only a future, but a future filled with endless possibilities....</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Peace,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wendy and Tippy! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">On Sunday, August 12, 2012 we lost a wonderful woman, a truly gentle soul, a giving person whom I adored and who I think is one of the main reasons I have found my church and church family so comforting. She is also one of the people responsible for me having a Service Dog. I used to joke with Jane that I wasn't sure who was more excited about the prospect of me receiving one, me or her! Jane went to the interview at NEADS with me way back in June of 2009. She helped to keep me excited and positive about the future. Through Jane I met Barbara Lincoln, a Weekend Puppy Raiser at NEADS. They had attended private school together. A whole new life was before me which, in part, I owe to Jane. I always say I believe in FATE, and the fact that a friend of hers from school was associated with NEADS.....obviously it was meant to be. I am pretty sure that when I think of Alli and Tippy, baking pies for church, sitting on a beach, looking to the future, Jane will not be far off..............</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I realize it's been more than a month since our last post, but time seems to fly whether you're having fun or not. It's been a busy summer and along with that it's been particularly humid as well. I have the hardest time with the humidity as it makes the air so heavy and my muscles are not strong enough to expand my rib cage sufficiently.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Despite being busy and dealing with health issues, we have managed to have a pretty good summer. The picture above was taken on August 11th, at Indian Ranch in Webster, MA. Indian Ranch is an outdoor venue with an emphasis on Country music, as well as having a camping area. In the summer months NEADS holds a fundraiser for Canines for Disabled Vets each Saturday and/or Sunday. Puppy Raisers and their pups, and clients with their canine partners are present to answer questions, allow the dogs to demonstrate some of their skills, and to allow the public some good old fashioned "dog time"....complete with wet kisses and belly rubs! It's a wonderful opportunity to show the possibilities for a future life for our wounded soldiers, and the chance for people to donate to an extremely worthy organization. Raffle tickets are sold and in between the opening and featured band the winner is drawn with a prize of $500 cash. So many people say they have heard of NEADS and are happy to have the opportunity to help. On the 11th, Emily went with me to see Little Feat. I always say that Tippy takes his job very seriously, and this particular day was no exception. All day long, people asked to have him demonstrate a few skills. NOT ONCE did he bawk! He usually loves to show off....and also loves his carrots as if they were steak! I answered questions, offered to have him "practice"....... including bowing and he just kept delivering!!!! Of course being told how handsome he is was<i> so hard to hear</i>!!! NEADS client Erin and her Service Dog, Freedom(a very pretty female black lab) did the same, and puppy in training Simian stepped up to the plate too. All 3 dogs were great, though I think Simian got pretty pooped. I think he's 9 months, and I've got a feeling he's going to be a big boy like Tippy as his paws are BIG!!! Emily decide to buy 1 ticket, just one. Janice called out the $500 ticket, and their was a lot of cheering and clapping. Then she called the 2nd place number....Indian Ranch had donated two seats up front. Emily began jumping up and down yelling, "I won, it's me! I won!!!" I told her to stop it because someone would think she really did....but, SHE REALLY DID WIN!! We were given seats in front, just off to the side, as you can see from the pic. Erin offered to watch Tippy while we were close to the stage. She thought that the volume would not be good for his hearing. I know that Tip has gone to concerts at Mohegan Sun with me, where we sit on the floor fairly close, and has done just fine. But, I didn't realize that the speakers would be on the ground right in front of us. It was definitely too loud. The box in front of the young man with the red shirt is actually a bank of speakers. I moved my seat toward the back side of the stage, but eventually felt that it was still too loud for Tippy. I took him swimming, and we walked up on the hillside to listen and watch. All in all a great day!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">My friend, Cindy, and I went out to our home on Prudence Island from the 14th-21st of August.. I mentioned above that my friend Jane passed away on the 12th. There were calling hours on the 14th, and a service on the 15th. I have to say, and please don't think badly of me, that I am thankful that I had already planned to be away. I don't handle it well when anyone passes, and I find it difficult to attend hours and services even for family members. I think the way I have felt health wise, it would have been extremely tough. I think it was appropriate to be away, at the beach, in solitude. Also, Jane would have been thrilled to know that Tippy would provide Cindy and I with 8 days of sheer escape! We went to the beach every day except 2...or maybe 3??? Tip swam every time, retrieving nearly an hour each time in. Even when I would tire from standing and would head in, he continued to swim around looking at the float wanting still more tosses. I posted a video on FB, and I think I will try to post the same one below. Aside from my constant words of encouragement, I think it's a great film. Tippy also got the hand of me holding his tail and "towing" me into shore. I can't be in the water much above my waist for more than a minute or so due to the pressure. I can't breathe and, obviously, that's a problem. I don't think I've had that much fun on the beach since the children were small. Tippy was good about staying nearby but if he began to wander a "closer" was all that was needed. After the first 2 beach days I had to put a 30' leash on periodically, when I wanted to sit, since he decided that it was okay to eat the crab SHELLS that were left as the tide went out. Who eats the shells!?! A couple little bites would cause the worse "flatulence" problem for an entire evening and through the night. Oh, well, he is a Lab! Another highlight of the week was the Fireman's Fair. Every year we make sure to be on PI for the fair. I go primarily for the chowder, clam fritters(which they call cakes), and books. I like knowing that it helps out the Volunteer Firemen. They didn't have any chowder when we got there. Too bad since it was raining just about all day! The fritters were delicious and I got a bunch of books. I also met the wife of a gentleman I had met a couple days earlier. Here comes "Fate" again....... I met Gil when I was "pottying" Tippy across the road from our house. He was driving by and stopped to ask me about Tippy. He explained that he and his wife had 2 Labs, and had decided that they wanted to raise a puppy for a Service Dog. He said that one organization that he spoke to said that the dogs while in training were required to be on a lead at all times, <i>even when in the yard. </i>He didn't like the idea at all.....I certainly agreed! We discussed it further, and I explained quite a bit about NEADS, and exchanged information. He seems like a very nice gentleman, retired, and upon meeting his wife, found her equally personable. I'm obviously not "in the know", but they really seemed like they'd be great puppy raisers. I hope it works out. He said several times, what a coincidence that we met when they're so interested in doing this. Then, it turns out that some very good friends of his used to go to our church, and I think I had their son in one of my church school classes....yup, quite a "coincidence"...... Well, it has taken me since Tuesday night to write this. I kept saying I didn't know what to say....it seems that cleared right up!!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Yesterday I gave a workshop for a daycare/preschool that I'm going to be the Early Childhood Consultant for. Really enjoyed it, and the staff, and I felt useful again. Tomorrow we have our church service at the town "swimming hole" and there will be two "full emersion(?)" baptisms. Looking forward to it! Then, Indian Ranch again.....</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">But first, we're heading out now to take Tip to that "swimming hole"....which happens to be in the same area as the dog park....LOVE to watch how happy he gets when he knows he's going swimming!!!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Peace,</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Wendy & Tippy </span></span><br />
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<br />wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-4590478918716595422012-07-06T16:49:00.001-04:002012-07-06T16:50:00.154-04:00St. Louis Proves Cathartic!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">On Wednesday, June 20th, Mark, Tippy and I headed to St. Louis with the US Pain Foundation. The Cares Alliance and Covidean provided a grant for us to come to speak with the Covidean employees. They asked for us to share our "story". Paul Gileno, President/Founder US Pain, Ellen, her husband Stu and Ellen's service dog, Maggie, Nicole Hemminway and her son and mother were all in attendance as well. I have to say it was one of the best experiences of my entire life. Isn't it funny that you find out the most about yourself when your not expecting it?!? It's the first time since our children were born that Mark and I went away without them other than when we went for consultations at various medical centers through the years. I think it was important for Mark to be there. He hasn't traveled with me since my muscles and balance have worsened. It's also the first time he has traveled with me with my service dog along.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I'll get to the cathartic part in a bit....actually, I really think that the entire trip was cathartic....it seemed there were revelations around every corner. But, let me start with the traveling. Once again, Tippy was AMAZING!!!!! I thought that it might be tough in the airport since he likes to wait for direction, but I was so wrong! The fact that he's constantly watching me made it seem almost seamless as any time we were turning or waiting, he was ready for the next step. He was so calm, too, that once again my fear of flying was almost nonexistent. He was wonderful along side my wheelchair as the attendant rolled me where we needed to go. Trotting along he looked happy, rather pleased with himself. I loved it! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Now, the hotel was amazing. It was the Marriott @ Union Station. It was, as it sounds, once a train station! In it's hey day, '30's and '40's, several thousand people passed through the station daily. How cool is that?!? The picture above shows Tippy sitting on an original station bench, and plaques commemorating the space on the original bricks. The space has been turned into the hotel, and a mini mall where the trains once entered and exited. The architecture is amazing with the original ceiling work in the Grand Hall/Lobby area. It's really neat. It has the original iron gates separating the hotel from the mall, and across from the lobby to get to the elevators for the hotel rooms. The difference is you now use your "card" room key to get through.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I have already said that Tippy was "AMAZING", but you must remember that he is a dog, and he's just turned 21 months...... That being said, I'm sure you'll get a kick out of this little story. Keep in mind that he did this on Thursday, just a couple of hours before we went to our speaking engagement in which I was including a demonstration by Tippy, showing behaviors and tasks service dogs are trained to do. Okay, enough build up! Ellen and I let Maggie and Tippy play in a grassy area just outside the fenced in pool area. There was a type of "alleyway" that led from that area, and ran along the pool fence and one side of the hotel. Tippy ran down there once, and came right back. Ellen said that she thought the gate at the other end was locked. Well, you know "Murphy's Law", "What can go wrong, will"? The next time Tippy ran down there, he didn't come back right away. Just as I was going to look down there a voice called out from the far end of the pool area....."Hey!", "Dog!", "Swimming!" He was looking over the back of the pool area! I "ran"(keep in mind...I can't run!) down the alley, and as I neared the end, I saw that the gate was open!! OH, MY, GOD!!! Tippy had gone through the open gate, and jumped into the Koi pond that surrounded the hotel on 2 sides!!!! Definitely not a pool for swimming, ESPECIALLY A DOG!!! I was mortified! I called Tip, and he came right a way, but, when he started to climb out he looked at me, then looked back at the pond, and the pond won out!!! I was aghast! I called him again, this time "Level 1" recall, "Tippy, Come!" Once again, he came right over only this time as he exited the pond he continued on. He definitely knew he'd done something he shouldn't have. He was drenched, he didn't shake, his ears were flat against his head, and his tale was tucked underneath.......he walked right past me and down the alleyway..... When he reached the grass, he shook himself off. Thank, God, when a Lab gets wet then shakes, they're almost dry! I used a towel from the pool area and buffed him, paying special attention to his chest and legs. Then we headed to my room where I had him lay for a bit while I rested. I then used the hair dryer to dry him most of the way before we left for Covidean. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Now, we're coming to the "cathartic" experience. I prepared my "presentation" starting with shortly before I became ill, and then followed with my pain "journey". I decided to include a portion which I have not shared with many people. It's part of my story, so it's about time I included it. While Bethany has been aware since almost the time of the incident, Aaron and Emily had no clue. I spoke to Em before I left for St. Louis, and we cried together. I didn't have a chance to speak to Aaron before we left, but have since returning. The incident I refer to took place on October 8th, 1996. I attempted suicide. I had spent the last four years suffering from and unknown progressive illness and had visited many doctors for second opinions. In June of 1996, we were sent to The Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. I had convinced myself that the answer would be found there. Well, after a week of appointments and tests, they came up with a "working" diagnosis that pretty much just describes my issues; "Bi-lateral restrictive lung disease secondary to a proximal myopathy". It just wasn't enough for me. Still no suggestions on how to treat it, or a prognosis. When we returned, I started seeing a different psychiatrist for several months. One day, upon returning home, I just flipped! There was no forethought, no plan in place, I just flipped! I walked into the house ahead of my husband locking the front door behind me. I then walked into my room, picked up a just filled prescription for 60 Xanax, walked into the bathroom locking that door behind me as well, and,........took the entire bottle of medication.....ALL of it!! I flushed the empty container down the toilet and sat on the floor of the bathroom with my back against the door..... I don't need to go into any more detail, suffice it to say that I thank God that I was unsuccessful because the best days of my life have been the ones since..... That is what I included in my talk, though not in that much detail. As I was reading and looking out at the audience, I began to sob. Not full out crying, but sobbing just the same. The instant I read that part, I actually felt a weight lifted off my shoulders. It was the first time I had spoken of it outside my "shrinks'" office, and the first time I had cried............ You know how people say that if they can make a difference in one person's life it's worth it? Well, I sent a "Thank You" to the individual who was responsible for our trip and presentation. I mentioned that I hoped I hadn't left a negative spin on things. She said absolutely not! She actually thanked me because shortly after our visit she attended a "meeting" and found the strength to share something about her health that she'd never shared before. I guess it really was worth it............. I have more to say about the trip, but I've gone on so long, I think I'll just leave you with a thought...........you never know how strong you are until you take that leap of faith....... </span></span><br />
<br />wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-67094950024171010782012-06-13T15:59:00.001-04:002012-06-13T19:28:33.593-04:00Time To Say Hello, Thank You, and Good Bye......<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I'm a bit late, but it's always okay to say "Thank You" to our Veterans, both past, present, and future..... While Memorial day is indeed the time to enjoy family and friends, we do so with the knowledge that it's made possible by the bravery and sacrifices our Armed Services have made. All in the name of "PEACE". Our small town is actually part of a "tri-town" area; Essex(made up of Ivoryton, Centerbrook, and Essex), Deep River and Chester. For this reason, we have our own elementary schools, but regional junior and senior highs. The school bands, jr. and sr., rotate between the 3 towns for parades. This year was our "off" year. Neither were in our town, however, the Essex Elementary School band did not march either. Therefore, our Memorial Day Parade was tiny. We are fortunate to have several Veterans who march yearly, but the days of the "long" parade seems to be gone. There were definitely plenty of parade goers, just not many doers. I hope next year proves me wrong, and the children of our town can experience the excitement and tears of a great parade....</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The week before, I had an appointment with the neurologist I see for my migraines. After a long discussion, he suggested that I try "Botox" injections. I have too, many, too often, and too severe. When I went to my appt., I had just gotten over a migraine that plagued me for over 4 1/2 weeks. Lights and sounds got to be way too much! Nothing I try as a prophylactic seems to work, and nothing has helped with the pain. I DETEST needles, but my doctor assures me that they are the size of insulin needles, and therefore the pain shouldn't be an issue....I'm used to pain, I JUST HATE NEEDLES!!!! My first "stab" at it is at the end of July...we'll see how it goes!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I've been feeling way more stressed lately, and am easily distracted. It doesn't really happen often that my depression gets in the way of life. Thanks to my shrink and the medication regimen I'm on I'm usually pretty even keeled. I've had more of an issue with dizziness and balance and I think I just need to slow down....take a deep breath....and move forward, one ...step ...in...front ...of ...the...other...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">With that said, this last week got extremely hectic. I think I'm in the process of crashing, but it seems to be creeping up on me. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">On Wednesday, June 6th, my friend Cindy and I traveled to Trenton, New Jersey. I was scheduled to address the New Jersey Assembly Committee on Health and Senior Services regarding their bill on Step Therapy. Their bill has a two step protocol, as opposed to Connecticut's law which requires your insurance company to fill the prescription your doctor writes for a pain medication, with either the name brand, or generic equivalent. The New Jersey bill allows the insurance company to request one attempt and failure before being required to fill the initial rx. Paul Gileno, President/Founder of US Pain Foundation, met me there, along with a lobbyist from Pfizer before heading up to the hearing room. There were 2 oopposed who spoke first, one of which was not only a terrible speaker, but was unprepared to give appropriate answers to questions asked. That "boded" well for us, as we were, clear, articulate, and obviously prepared. We knew our material, and I believe it was obvious that it was not just coming from our head, but from our heart as well. Cindy thought we did well, and I felt much better following than I did going into it having not enjoyed the event in Edison. In any case, Wendy, the Pfizer Lobbyist said that they'd love to have me back in the fall, when it will go before the Assembly and Senate. God I love doing what I do! Looking forward to more work! The trip went well all around, and came at a perfect time as I was stressed beyond where I've been of late and just needed to "Get the hell out of Dodge!"</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I returned Thursday night, from my all too brief respite, to a veterinarians appointment for our cat George on Friday morning. It was supposed to be just a check up and Feline leukemia booster but we knew it would be more than that. He had seemed to be dropping weight daily, and was eating very little.....even if we opened a can of tuna for him. As it turned out, he had lost about 4 lbs of his 10.5 lbs, down to just 6.75#'s! The veterinarian looked sad, and my daughter and I said that we had already discussed that this was more than likely the path we'd take today, and therefore we all felt it was time to give him the gift of PEACE. We called my other daughter so she could be present, and allowed George to move on. What I hadn't expected was Tippy's reaction. I knew that he and George got along exceptionally well, and decided that I wanted him with me when we put George down. Up until the tech took George to put a catheter in, Tippy was laying quietly by my side on the floor. When the tech took him, Tippy immediately picked up his leash in his mouth and started pacing and turning in circles. He would not let me take the leash, but continued to pace at a near frantic level until George was brought back in, wrapped in a blanket. He had been given a mild sedative, in preparation for the final injection into the catheter. Tippy reclaimed his spot next to my leg, and lay very quietly until the vet came in to give the med. My daughter, Bethany, sat in the middle with Em and me flanking her. As the vet began the injection, Tip picked up his chin and rested it on my knee and stayed there until the vet checked George with her stethoscope, and said, "He's gone"........ Tippy took his chin from my knee and rested it on his paws on the floor.....he remained quiet the rest of the day....... He has since occasionally looked for George when we go out, since George followed us EVERYWHERE....down the road on walks, or just out to "potty".....and then he'd follow us in. I guess we are ALL slowly accepting, and getting used to, the fact that George is no longer with us. He had a wonderful life. He lived 13 years as an outside cat, the only one left in the whole neighborhood due to all of the wildlife we have, especially the coyotes....of which there are many! Even several months ago, he was still bringing us the insides of critters. It was kind of creepy, because he would bring the skinned creature....minus the head and fur/feathers....sometimes the entrails were as large as a squirrels! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is a picture of George and Alli, January 16, 2011. As you can see, George was an uncommonly GORGEOUS feline! He will be missed more than words can convey......... </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Good Bye George.......</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">On Saturday night, We attended a benefit comedy show with Lisa Landry, for NEADS Client, Elaine Motta and Service Dog Rudy. My friends daughter and I med Elaine following my graduation ceremony with Tippy. We ate at the Applebees in Leominster, MA, and Elaine was there getting ready to move into NEADS for her 2 weeks of training with Rudy. I feel so blessed and honored when I have the opportunity to meet clients when they are just beginning their NEADS journey. I med Amy Reay while she was fundraising for her Service Dog. And, when she was matched with Service Dog Delancy, I just happened to be up at NEADS one of the days while bringing a bread pudding. To see the excitement and anticipation in the faces of the soon to be "partnered" is so heartwarming. Knowing that they've become a part of the NEADS family is like welcoming a new member into my own family....It's great. Below is a picture of the "CT Contingent", along with John Moon, NEADS,(with S.D. Rainbow), and Ellen Jones, NEADS, and a new friend, NEADS alum, Tanya and S.D. Bess! HELLO</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Last, but certainly not least, Tippy and I would like to thank you for your prayers of healing wishes for our good friend, Karin and her Service Dog, Lucky. Karin has made a miraculous recovery and has been re-united with Lucky. While she tires easily, Karin is doing much better and gets stronger with each new day. We are all better for having Karin in our lives, and so with a much heartfelt Thank You, I say Good Night!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Karin and Lucky!!!</span></span></div>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-37552980434097190932012-06-02T22:39:00.001-04:002012-06-02T22:42:00.257-04:00I Really Need To Slow Down......<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Graduation Day!!!! Em graduated from the University of Rhode Island on May 20th. She received her BFA in Theatre with and Acting concentrate. Anyone who knows her is probably not the least bit surprised by her choice of major. The only thing I can ever remember her wanting "to be", is an actress. She's not interested in tv or movies, just the theatre. She's been singing since she was just 4 years old in the "Cherub Choir" at church, and stayed with it right through high school. **Where she got her voice, I have no idea....most definitely NOT from me!! Em's moving home for a bit to get a good routine going on repaying her student loans. Unfortunately, we were not able to help, so she's got a lot. She's hoping to head out by the first of the year, to an area near her friends and theatre opportunities.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">On Tuesday, May 22, Tippy and I headed over....a 5 minute drive....to the Essex Yacht Club to speak to and profusely THANK the Essex Rotary for helping to make our partnership possible. The Rotary very generously donated $8,500 of the $9,500**($9,500 is the clients' portion of the nearly $25,000 needed to raise the service dog from "puppyhood" through graduation.) The above picture was taken by a member of the Rotary, Dick Levene, during an interview I had in preparation for my presentation. I truly think it is by far my most favorite picture as it shows the love Tippy and I have for each other. I really enjoyed speaking to the club. I love being able to speak with people about my blessing of a Service Dog, and how it has changed my life. Beyond that, the fact that these dogs are able to make such a positive change in the lives of so many with a myriad of disabilities is most definitely a miracle. It's so very interesting to find so many well educated intelligent people who truly do not know the gist of the Americans With Disabilities Act. Of course, most people are unaware of the specifics of the ADA unless they either are covered under it, or come in contact with those who are. It always feels good to leave a group of people knowing that you have provided the service of imparting vital information that every American should be aware of. I enjoy running through a bit of my daily practice sessions with Tippy. I think the club enjoyed seeing where their donation went, and the value of that donation. They don't often have the opportunity to see the "fruits of their labor".</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Once again, it seems that I'm working backward chronologically. I guess it's part of what Mark calls "Wendy Speak". When people start following my train of thought, they're in trouble!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">On Wednesday, the 16th, Tippy and I headed to Edison, New Jersey. I was asked to speak to a group of intervention pain physicians regarding the practice of "Step Therapy". I've mentioned this in earlier posts. Simply put, it's the practice whereby insurance companies require you to try and fail at one or more prescription medications before they will approve the Rx that your doctor initially wrote. Last year, US Pain helped to get the first bill of it's kind in the nation passed, and ultimately signed into law by Gov. Malloy in the state of Connecticut. The trip to New Jersey taught me a valuable lesson......ALWAYS ASK FOR AN AGENDA WHEN ACCEPTING A SPEAKING ENGAGEMENT!!!!! The initial invitation asked for the speaker to speak at the beginning of the meeting for 10 minutes. We(my friend Cindy went with Tippy and me), arrived at the hotel in Edison at round 4pm, checked in, tweaked my "speech" a bit, changed, and realized we were running late.....of course! We made it to the venue at exactly 6:30, rushed inside, found my contact, and readied for a speedy intro....WRONG! I was told, "We've just started our social hour....."!! Ei, yi, yi!! During the "hour", I had occasion to mention, "So, I have 5-10 minutes?" She told me, "Oh no, not even". Okay, so totally throw out my 3 pages of notes. Then, when 7:30 rolled around, my contact was 4th on the agenda, and I followed her. To make matters worse, 2 of the previous members/physicians made reference to the same topics I was going to touch on. I certainly was not about to repeat the importance of the bill to medical doctors. I went the route of the importance of their support not only for the New Jersey bill, but for their patients who would benefit by it's passage. I also explained the importance of the CT law. That it pertains to pain meds only, a good place to start and get footing, and that in CT, when your doctor writes a prescription for a pain med, your insurance company is required to approve that med, or it's generic equivalent. Also, it's important to keep the medical decisions with your own physician, the insurance companies should not, in essence, be "playing doctor".</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Okay, give me a moment to step off my soap box! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Before leaving New Jersey, we were able to stop in to see Eddie. Eddie was in my class at NEADS when I was blessed with Alli.**(More on Alli to come) Eddie was wounded in Afghanistan in 2003 when an IED went off when he was out of his "Hum-V"(sp?) Eddie has probably made more of a difference in my life than most. When we arrived at NEADS, Eddie had the room next to me, we shared a common wall. During our first 3 nights at training Eddie had flashbacks, yelled and bumped the wall due to his PTSD. However, once the dogs stayed with us beginning on the 4th night, I did not hear another sound during the night for the remaining week and a half. And, this was before NEADS started their "Trauma Alert" program. **(The teams in the new "TA" program learn to recognize the onset of a PTSD episode, and help each other through.....I don't want to say more as I am not familiar enough, and don't want to make a mistake.) Eddie has gone through so much, and is a remarkable person. In any case, I met with Eddie in NJ to talk with him about possibly becoming involved with the US Pain Foundation, and possibly speaking. He has done wonderful work while involved with the Wounded Warrior Project. </span></span><br />
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<br />wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-81003819176423551722012-05-13T22:05:00.000-04:002012-06-02T22:37:22.419-04:00PHEW!!!!!! TIPPY READ THE WHOLE EYE CHART!!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I think this picture says it all!! Dr. Federica Maggio, DVM, a Veterinary Ophthalmologist, administered the exam and was so happy to be able to give the good news! She examined Alli last year and was so very compassionate that I never even considered going to another doctor.The entire Tufts VETS(Veterinary Emergency Treatment and Specialties) staff is so warm and caring. The exam is so comprehensive....very similar to what a "human" ophthalmologist might do. Perhaps even a bit more so! Dr. Maggio truly loves these animals, I think she was just as happy to give the good news, as I was to receive it! My friend Cindy was with me, as she was when we took Alli, and she was a great support.....EXCEPT.....I saw Dr. Maggio give a slight smile, and thought I heard her say, "That looks good" while giving the exam. I looked over at Cindy and she had a very serious look on her face and her lip was quivering. For a moment I thought that maybe I had heard the doctor wrong. Nevertheless, the end result was great, and both Tippy and I are blessed to be able to be a team for years to come! Dr. Maggio loved how happy we were, and of course Tippy had won everyone over, so she asked if she could take a couple pictures. Of course I said yes. She sent me the 3 pics, and I absolutely love this one. Tippy and I do "hugs" often and I believe he knows that it's comforting to me......I wonder what emotion it stirs in him......</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">When we left Tufts in Walpole, MA, we headed over to NEADS to share the good news! I had made a large bread pudding to celebrate the results of the test with the staff there. I'm not sure what I would have called it had the news not been good. Sherrie Forest and Kathy Foreman were there when we arrived and I reported immediately the positive outcome. They both said that Tippy looks great. I think so too, but it's always good to hear it from those who are "in the know" about such things. I am very diligent when it comes to meals, treats, training and exercise with him so there really shouldn't be a problem. Everyone also said that he looks bigger than when we left. It's entirely possible since he is now 19 months though he should be nearly done growing. His weight remains about the same, 82.2 lbs. While we were at NEADS, we learned that there was one new puppy in the Early Learning Center(aka the "Puppy House"). Cindy and I wanted very much to visit, but Tippy isn't allowed. Partly because the pups have not had all of their "shots" and could "catch" something from the older dogs, and partly for the reverse....... Sherrie said that Tip could stay in John Moon's office since he was on vacation. I put Tippy in a "Down/Stay", Sherrie put up the gate across the door, and I told Tippy to stay one more time. I mentioned that I fully expected him to be in the same place when I returned, then we went up to see the puppy. The Puppy House is at the top of the driveway, in a house next door. We met radar, said hello to those who work and volunteer there, chatted a bit and returned to the main building about 20-25 minutes later. Sherrie was standing near John's office speaking with Paula and for a moment I thought that Tippy had been moving around. But, true to his nature, Tippy was in the exact same spot, with his head on his front paws looking at the door! Sherrie said I could exercise Tippy up in the training room, as I was waiting to possibly speak with Brian concerning Tippy's timid response to playing with other dogs. Brian had taken a puppy to it's prison destination, but when he returned he was in a bit of a hurry to leave and I didn't want to delay him. I'm quite sure he didn't know, at the time, that I was there. I left quietly before him and Cindy and I headed off for lunch. Lunch was at a "99" restaurant, was quite good, and quite relaxing. Tippy was awesome, as always!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">On Wednesday Tippy, Cindy, and I are headed to New Jersey to speak to the New Jersey Society of Interventional Pain Physicians about "Step Therapy/Fail First" legislation and the importance of their support of their patients as we work toward eliminating the practice. *(Sorry for the run-on sentence!) I surprise myself in that I'm truly looking forward to doing this, and more of it.....Service Dogs have not only allowed me to regain some of my lost independence, I feel that they have afforded me a new avenue to follow in life, pretty cool, huh? I am hoping to connect with Eddie, and his service dog, Houdini, while in New Jersey. Eddie was in my NEADS class in November of 2009. Paul suggested that I check with Eddie about possibly being involved with US Pain issues. I'm so looking forward to seeing him again. I think it's been since the Fall of 2010.....too long!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Finally.....Please send healing prayers to my good friend and fellow classmate, Karin(she received "Lucky" when I received Alli). She is having serious medical complications and is in the ICU. She has had to deal with so much and, while she is an extremely strong and courageous woman, she has had enough for the time being.....please hold her in your prayers........</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Wendy and Tippy </span></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-1627666040202112712012-05-08T15:38:00.002-04:002012-05-08T15:38:42.818-04:00Tippy, Tippy, Prayers for Friends.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Once again, Tippy was the "Cute Puppy" of the day on the NEADS site. He must have been pretty new at NEADS since the picture is dated 12/10 and his birthday is early October, 2010. I love these pictures! That's the only part of receiving the dogs that I miss! When you choose your pet as a puppy or kitten, whether from a shelter(as we always did) or a breeder, you have the thrill of seeing them as adorable babies. I have the "puppy" album I received from Alli's inmate trainer and still love to look at it from time to time. Now, I have these "Cute Puppy" pics of Tippy! So far, there are just the two, but I cherish them nonetheless. This one looks so like him even now. His eye contact is amazing. When he looks at you, it's like he's looking into you. I know it's a bit corny, but it's like he's looking into your soul, and seems to always find comfort there as well as instilling the same. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This past weekend we attended the Trans Siberian Orchestra performance of Beethoven at Mohegan Sun. Tippy has been wonderful at the URI Theatre performances, and has been downright amazing accompanying me to the CT, and RI capitols. I wasn't sure, however, how he'd do at a concert performance. He is always so calm, when not playing, that I wondered how he would react to the </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> crowds</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">, loud music, strobe lights, and rapid movement on the stage. He, himself, performed exquisitely! I used to love watching Alli as she watched the first half of any performance from under the seat in front before falling asleep for the 2nd half. Tippy somehow managed to sleep through the first half, wake shortly looking for a reward, then fell fast asleep for the remainder of the show. He was also game when we got Ben and Jerry's afterward, savoring the banana I purchased for him, and happily walked with us to order a small pizza to go before heading back to our room. My friend and I chuckled as Tip went back and forth from my bed to hers with his toy waiting to see who would opt for the chance to play. He loved the carrot slices he received while practicing high 5, catch me low(low 5), prayers, time for bed, etc. Tippy never seemed to take notice of the late, or early, hour until I settled down and out he went...down for the count!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">On Saturday....I guess I'm working backward....Tippy and I went with my good friend Debbie and her granddaughter Olivia to Bishop's Orchard for the Donkey and Mule Festival. I think Tippy found it all quite curious. We started with a small pen with a few llamas. A larger enclosure had both llamas and a few goats. I'm not sure who was more interested, Tippy as he studied these beasts behind the wire fence, or the "beasts"....llamas and goats....who approached the fence looking at Tippy as though he was an alien! In fact, to them I guess he was an alien. It was so obvious that he interested them. Their stare caught him as he neared the fence, and they moved closer, cautiously sizing him up. We watched the donkeys as their riders made their way through an obstacle course....soooooo much more slowly than with a horse. Tippy really wasn't interested, and when Debbie and Liv returned from the "Moon Bounce",(Olivia calls them "Boom Bounces"!) he was only too happy to retreat to other areas. Unfortunately for him, the next area was no better. We went on a tractor ride through the orchard. With each bump and creak, Tippy looked like he wanted to shout, "Stop the ride, I want to get off"!!!! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Thursday is a big day for Tippy, and I guess for me. He has an appointment at Tufts VETS(Veterinary Emergency Treatment and Specialties) for his free Service Dog eye exam. His appointment is with Dr. Federica Maggio, DVM. She is a Veterinary Ophthalmologist. I took Alli to see her last May and received the news of her impending blindness. These exams are so vitally important. Sight should never be underestimated. Without this appointment, we would have continued to believe that Al's difficulties were related to behavior issues and would not have realized it was her sight for probably some time. Animal have an amazing ability to adapt well to a lost sense. Dr. Maggio told us that if Alli was a pet, and not a service dog who was constantly out and away from home, it's possible that we would not have known until she was completely blind. Whether a service animal or not, an annual eye exam is so important for the animal's health. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Next Wednesday we are heading to New Jersey to speak to the "New Jersey Society of Interventional Pain Physicians. I was asked by Paul 2 weeks ago if I would travel to New Jersey to speak to a group about "Step Therapy"/Fail First legislation. "Step Therapy" is the practice of insurance companies to require a patient to first fail at one or more alternative medications before filling the initial prescription the doctor wrote. Having addressed the issue in CT,(where we were successful), MA, and RI, I am more than interested in continuing the "push". After finding out last week that the group was a physician's organization I immediately felt intimidated. While my first instinct was to decline, I told Paul that I was still willing and interested to go. He was glad and said that they, "are people like us and need to get involved to help patients". The bottom line is that I believe very strongly in this legislation and feel that I can convey that belief and it's importance through the facts and how they relate to all individuals. I am now looking forward to the event and consider it as more experience in an area that I am finding purposeful and thrilling. You don't always get a second chance at a direction for your life....and one that has the ability to promote positive change for others.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Finally, I ask for your prayers for several friends of mine. Karin, who graduated with Alli and me with her Service Dog Lucky, has had a recurrence of a past cancer. After receiving radiation treatment it was shown that it had no effect and would need to undergo surgery to remove any growths they were able to. Please send your healing prayers her way for her May 15th surgery. She says that Lucky has been her strength, her rock. Let's hope that they can remain partners for years to come.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Lastly to the family of my good friend Cindy. On April 30th, she lost her husband of more than 40 years to cancer. Bob was a strong role model for his wife, son, and grandchildren. He was always ready, willing and able to help with the needs of the church accomplishing a great deal on both Outreach and House and Grounds committees. Bob's infectious, positive attitude and personality will surely be greatly missed. While the Marshalls have a great yellow Lab, Hunter, Bob loved seeing Alli and she was able to visit him in the hospital last year....which put a smile on his face. Tippy had the great opportunity to visit with him at their home several times and I know it brought him great pleasure to watch Hunter get "hyped" while "toying" with him! Bob had always wanted a party before his death to say "Thank You", and "Goodbye" to his friends and family but was not up to it this past year. Instead, the family is having a picnic for all to share their stories and memories of Bob now that he's passed. "CHEERS to you Bob!" Your prayers will do so much in the healing process for Bob's family.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </span></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-24197098476215610292012-04-22T10:01:00.001-04:002012-04-22T10:11:39.103-04:00TIP<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I'm adding the usual picture, this time a video, below because I have to apologize for all the , "Are you ready?", and "Good Boy!" comments first. Tippy loves to play, loves the soccer ball, loves the tennis ball, but is so laid back that he likes a lot of encouragement. He likes to know that he's doing a good job, that he's not doing anything wrong. He takes his job very seriously, and his play just as much so. This is also one of the last times that I stood up while playing with him....my hand was already broken....I decided soon after not to take any more chances! Tippy normally plays harder and the balls, whether soccer or tennis, go farther when I'm not trying to brace with the crutch, kick or throw the ball, </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">and hold the camera, </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">all at the same time! I guess that explains the broken hand...! **(Oh, and ignore the "awesome" lawn and landscape, enough said)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Tomorrow we meet with a woman from the Essex Rotary. They donated quite a bit to go toward Tippy. She wants to get together so she can meet me and Tippy and learn a bit about "Service Dogs" and all they can do. She'll also have a gentleman from the club to take some pictures. The Rotary would like this done so they can submit it to the local papers and TV stations to see if anyone wants to "pick it up" for a story. This publicity is a small price to pay for what the Rotary has done with their donation. I have to remember to wash Tippy's "equipment" tonight so he'll look great for the pictures. Who am I kidding? He always looks great. I know I said it with Alli, but it's like having my children young again. I feel so proud when people take notice about the great job Tippy does and how handsome he is. They especially take note about his shiny coat......salmon oil. I know some people use fish oil and/or those fish oil gel tabs, and they seem to work great, too. But, I used salmon oil for Alli before I knew that and loved the effect. I get it at the pet store. Labs are known for having dry skin, the reason I started the oil with Alli, and using the salmon oil seems to take care of any dry skin along with providing a gorgeous coat. The other day someone made the comment that his coat was so shiny in the sun it had the look of a deep blue, like a seal.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I think I need to stop for today. Tippy started out on the bed with me, with his chin resting on the edge of my laptop. He then moved so that his whole head was on the keyboard and just his eyes were looking at me. I tried scratching his belly with my foot as I often do while typing but apparently that doesn't cut it today because he's jumped off and is sitting by my bedside with his chin on my leg.....again with the puppy dog eyes looking up at me.... He definitely wins this time....I gladly cry "Uncle"!!!!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQEgVrfzB6GX2X0QR5ZJPK_S-Yg3UF6X1h_nAoXcC4fE8q92uv2xFb639BTnX5gQKN-MXcJCRlMmdoRPGj8QBD1-qHQX1pI6Mx-hUIbqraWDexfN9oglHJ8w36zL25riwhiMS_EqdeBrq1/s1600/IMG_0402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQEgVrfzB6GX2X0QR5ZJPK_S-Yg3UF6X1h_nAoXcC4fE8q92uv2xFb639BTnX5gQKN-MXcJCRlMmdoRPGj8QBD1-qHQX1pI6Mx-hUIbqraWDexfN9oglHJ8w36zL25riwhiMS_EqdeBrq1/s320/IMG_0402.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-64487470485000871262012-04-18T16:16:00.005-04:002012-04-19T07:53:09.314-04:00"PHEW.......!!"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbrYpyR0bfpCWfm8TD6gfZdBWFONaoAMUvPNb2O8_4N0Mmzb2Pvw8RqQF82YqJCGzyxWoB1kkp57Jot-LxS9j-Wzh7oRaUXYdVJ09pFc24rPovm3nPc-p9YrgMy8LnnLXLmS3BlxL3tAbu/s1600/IMGP2089-1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbrYpyR0bfpCWfm8TD6gfZdBWFONaoAMUvPNb2O8_4N0Mmzb2Pvw8RqQF82YqJCGzyxWoB1kkp57Jot-LxS9j-Wzh7oRaUXYdVJ09pFc24rPovm3nPc-p9YrgMy8LnnLXLmS3BlxL3tAbu/s320/IMGP2089-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730491696809611970" border="0" /></a><br />Well, I started this post the day before Easter after our visit with the Easter Bunny. This picture shows the "ever curious, always problem solver", Tippy, looking for the Bunny's eggs. Once again, as with Santa on the Christmas train, the "character" phoned in his duty. Whatever happened to all the "Edmund Gwenns"(The 1947 version of "Miracle on 34th Street"/black&white.....it can't be beat!) Santas and Bunnies were always so animated! Now many of them sit and just bide their time! If I hadn't seen his lackluster performance with the children before Tip's turn, I would have thought he was just afraid of dogs.....or flat out doesn't like them. But the children would sit next to him, he didn't move or tip his head or even wave, the picture was taken and the children would be led away by their adoring parents. And, what makes it even worse, the least expensive package of pics was $22. What happened to being able to buy just the one 5x7 for $10? There wasn't even an option for a single. Enough ranting.<br /><br />I got as far as uploading this picture (taken with my own camera!) and had to stop due to the pain in my hand. I broke it playing with Tippy on the day following my last post. I have to explain at the start that it wasn't his fault. When your trainer tells you to sit when playing with your dog because your balance is so bad.......SIT!!!!! This was the second time I've fallen while we exercised/played, and hopefully the last! This time, when I went to the dog park I decided to capitalize on the early spring and take Tippy down to the swimming area. At this point, no people swim, and there's no one to make sure the dogs don't use it. Because Tippy hasn't been with me for very long, I had his flat collar attached to a 50' lead. 20/20 hindsight is a B*%#H! Instead of just letting the lead lie along the sand, I had the brilliant idea to hold the end. I just didn't want to take a chance on him running, and the highway is just up a big hill from the beach. I went to throw the ball, began to lose my balance, and ended up throwing it too far. Tippy naturally went after it and I realized immediately that I needed to let go of the lead. Wouldn't you know, the lead "handle" got caught up on my thumb and my fate was sealed. As I was already off balance, down I went! The weird thing is that I fell onto my right side yet it's my left hand that's broken. It happened so fast, I guess I could have put my left hand back to brace for the fall or it just got caught under me....either way, I don't know. Later that night I vomited, then most of the next day as well. I guess I might have hit my head and got a mild concussion.....that explains why I had sand in my hair and I guess the left hand as well. When I fell, I tried to get up but couldn't. I called "Tippy, Tippy", but he had gotten the ball and was doing what we call the "Rabbit Run" around and around me with wild eyes....he was definitely "in the moment". I then decided to use the "Level II Recall", and said, in a very authoritative voice...."TIPPY, COME!!!" He turned on a dime and came right over to me, sat, scooched a bit closer and put his chin on my shoulder! I started to cry! I don't know if it was from the pain, or the fact that he remembered something I had been teaching him and used it at an appropriate time. I taught him to HUG!!!!! He stayed there until I said, "I love you.....good boy"! Then he stood in front of me and braced himself while I leaned on him to get up. It took awhile, and he didn't budge the whole time....GOD, I LOVE MY BOY!!!!!! The "kicker" is that one of the reasons I took Tippy to the beach was to celebrate his "half birthday"! He turned 18 mos on the 4th. My son's birthday is in January, so when he was young we celebrated his "1/2 birthday" in July. No cake or party, just a trip to the book store for his choice of a couple books.<br /><br />The following Monday, the 9th, we went up to Middletown to see the new office for US Pain Foundation and meet with Paul (Gileno, President, Founder). I'm very excited to put in a day or two each week, when able, to work on issues, support groups, research. It really made this whole thing I've been working on seem so real. It's always been real, but I now realize that what I say does matter, and I have the ability to reach out to others and help them to see how they can help themselves. In essence, I've not only found my "voice" but am learning how I can use it to be a positive influence for those with chronic pain and illness. I'm also getting used to learning about the issues that effect our health care system, and testifying to help improve the lives of so many. NEVER would I have guessed that I would be doing this, let alone enjoying it. In June, US Pain has received a grant to bring the INvisible Project to St. Louis, MO, and Paul has asked me and fellow advocate and INvisible Project subject....and friend Ellen Smith to accompany him and speak before the group attending. Mark, and Ellen's husband Stu will of course make the trip with us as we are not able to make the trip w/out their assistance. Of course.....Tippy and Ellen's service dog Maggie will also be with us.<br /><br />I know this is long, but it's been 2 weeks and I promised myself that I would post at least once a week. I've got a couple more topics to cover.....please bear with me......? On the 11th, (Ellen's birthday!) I actually got some wonderful news. Currently, my immune system is holding it's own!!! I actually don't need the IVIG at this point in time. My immunologist said that perhaps the new doctors I'm seeing in September, Neuro-Immunologists, may see the benefit of the IV, but at this point I will not receive it. The same IVIG that I was receiving is often used for persons with MS and other neuromuscular disorders. Not having it for the last year could explain why my balance and muscle strength have declined more than in previous years. Along with this topic is the interview I did with NBC 30, in Connecticut, pertaining to the bill which I gave testimony for that would restrict the out-of-pocket expense for Specialty Tiers. At the time I gave testimony and was interviewed I had not had my blood work, and was still fighting for my IVIG. I will continue to push forward for others who desperately need there Specialty Tier meds and cannot afford the increasing co-pays. The bill was "killed", so the interview was tabled. I'm not sure why, but the station decided to run the story this past Monday as part of their "Troubleshooters" segment. I had contacted my "media" person Jen, about the change in my status. We hashed it out a bit and decided that my immune system is a small part of my disorder and that since I was on it and remained infection free for the duration, I would still opt to have it if available and a physician agreed. Also, she felt that since it's possible that I reaped the benefits with regards to my neuromuscular disorder the story was still valid. Neither one of us was notified that the story was running, but everything is good!<br /><br />Last, but not least, is the spaghetti dinner Tippy and I attended on the13th....a Friday no less! It was a bit ironic that Tip was there as it was a benefit dinner for an area cat shelter, Catales. We were told there might be cats there, but they would be in crates. I didn't see any cats, but the big black dog slept through pretty much the whole thing!<br /><br />I have decided that Tippy is "Wise Beyond His Year(s)" and wanted to leave you with a picture of what I am blessed to see each and every day...... <br /><br />Peace,<br />Wendy <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.neads.org">www.neads.org</a><br /> <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbpugXCHi8BXeJPBMNy4LXFmmz23OgupN0z6-9Fk2u4XvCkee_laR4SHYJefxfb2WTJ47CVZF5T8mBle0znfJ0-1uZlSAyJryAAfA6rxpaOeYST_Mr3AWNnuH-LXAEMceBHfSNOSIm59aR/s1600/IMG_0361.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbpugXCHi8BXeJPBMNy4LXFmmz23OgupN0z6-9Fk2u4XvCkee_laR4SHYJefxfb2WTJ47CVZF5T8mBle0znfJ0-1uZlSAyJryAAfA6rxpaOeYST_Mr3AWNnuH-LXAEMceBHfSNOSIm59aR/s320/IMG_0361.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5732846121736089282" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-86146821643969887952012-04-03T15:02:00.004-04:002012-04-03T18:31:59.222-04:00"......Like a Hamster on a Wheel........"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVHgcLeLv51ZjMOXJFHV7pb_ACXnyYxPctlwSZQs_P87479Y1pafNMtBk0SpR2bUDVysvBT-muluU5IGUmFJNzvZIyHGqFA0HaUoZKGADnCtsachWTeidnVwPygwXGt5Nlc82waRzXH5Tr/s1600/IMG_0332.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVHgcLeLv51ZjMOXJFHV7pb_ACXnyYxPctlwSZQs_P87479Y1pafNMtBk0SpR2bUDVysvBT-muluU5IGUmFJNzvZIyHGqFA0HaUoZKGADnCtsachWTeidnVwPygwXGt5Nlc82waRzXH5Tr/s320/IMG_0332.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727253842311733922" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">I really need to slow down....but it's so hard when I know what I'm doing can help so many....and the fact that I love it just keeps me going!<br /><br />This is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Tippy</span> doing his Oscar Nominated performance of "Dead Dog"! Our dog park...or "Paw Park" as it's called....opened on Sunday. You can always walk down from the lot up above, but on April 1st the gate opens allowing one to drive down to the area. I can't walk far enough to make it when the gate's closed so I'm thrilled it's open! Today was our 3rd day. I still exercise Tip at home every day, but it's great for him to have the social experience of playing with other dogs. I'm sure you remember me referring to Alli as a "Pushy Broad", but <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Tippy</span> is the complete opposite. When we get to the park and other dogs are already there, "yipping" and "play" growling to let <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tippy</span> know they were there first, he already begins to cower a bit. Then, he gets anxious to play and begins to get a bit hyper. I make him sit in the transitional area while I remove his Gentle Leader and vest. Sometimes it takes a minute or two to get him settled and watching me before I open the gate and say "Free Play"! Then, the fun begins! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Tippy</span> charges out of the gate, but as soon as the other dogs descend on him, he cowers, runs behind me, and watches for a chance at "freedom". When he spies his opening, he dashes out looking oh so confident....until the other dogs start barking or running, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Tippy</span> turns on a dime and comes "running back to Mama"!! It's really quite comical. He kind of hits and runs. Dash out, dash in, dash out, dash in....you get the idea! I guess it's true, the bigger they are, the harder they fall!<br /><br />We have been very busy, a good busy, but very busy. On March 22, I got an e-mail from Paul <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Gileno</span>(US Pain) asking if I would attend a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">CHAF</span> (CT Health Advocacy Forum) as a Rep. for US Pain on Wednesday the 28<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">th</span>. I said I'd be happy to, I'm one of those people who love attending meetings that help me understand different areas of our lives. So I put that on my calendar and planned for it. Then, on Monday the 26<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">th</span>, I received another e-mail from Paul late in the day, that he forwarded from one of our media group contacts asking if I would be available to testify once again in Providence. This time it was before a House committee on Insurance and Finance regarding coupon and/or discount programs as they relate to prescription drugs. The hearing was to take place the next day! Tiffany, from The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Cullari</span> Group, asked that if I could make it to the House on Tuesday, and Paul to the Senate on Wednesday she thought we'd have good coverage. She also sent a couple pages of "talking points" which included a chart and the key points to be included in my testimony. These always help. I can't possibly be aware of, or know the gist of, every bill coming up for discussion. Especially in another state. Needless to say, we went to Providence. I learned a lesson. I had printed up my testimony and was pleased that I had incorporated all the key "points" and included the chart with explanation. There were probably 6-7 opposed to the bill(US Pain, for one), and one in favor. The chairman, he looked like a cross between JFK and Sen. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Blumenthal</span>, decided to sandwich the Blue Cross gentlemen(of course the only one "for") between the opposed. When my turn came up.....right after the BC guy, I asked if I could remain seated as there was not a podium and it's difficult for me to stand for any length of time. The chairman said yes as long as I spoke loud enough as the hearing was being recorded. I chuckled and said that I've never been accused of speaking too quietly. I began my testimony. Several of the speakers before me had mentioned that the coupon/discount program helps those with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">meds</span> attached to high co-pays. When I got to an appropriate point I mentioned that while I was not a Rhode Island resident, and my med did not "fit" the bill, I just wanted to point out to those present who may not be aware of the high cost of prescription medication that one of mine which I cannot afford carries a co-pay of $1,000/4 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">wks</span>. Again, I mentioned that I was merely showing that there are indeed high costs associated with prescription medication. I then continued on with my written testimony and finished. The next to testify was called and began their testimony. Well, with the speed that the committee's "council" rose and came to speak with me you would have thought that I was wanted for a felony! While the testimony continued he asked me if there was a generic form of my med. I told him I wasn't sure but that I know there are other formulations but my doctor wanted me on this specific drug. He told me that if there was no generic it didn't apply to the bill. I reminded him that I had prefaced that when I made my comment, and also since I'm not a resident of RI it really was a moot point. He gave a heavy sigh and looked at me with slight disdain, then went to speak with the author of the bill, and then to the "gentleman" from BC. I thought the council was supposed to be neutral....right?!? It was certainly evident how he felt. So, for now on, I'll stick to the script, my script.<br /><br />Have you ever needed to speak in front of a group, and your friends/colleagues tell you that they know you'll do a good job, or that they are sure you did do a good job? I've been told that many times. And, although I feel fairly confident about my experiences, I'm never really sure if it's factual, or are they saying this to be kind and not wanting to hurt my feelings. When the testimony for my bill concluded, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Tippy</span> and I rose and left the room with the others who had testified. A woman came up to me and asked if I would mind an unsolicited comment. I assumed, as always, that it was going to be something about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Tippy</span>. WRONG!! She told me that she just wanted to say that I had spoken so well with pertinent information. She said that she could tell that I was comfortable giving testimony and that always had a positive effect on committee members. WOW! I had noticed this woman when she entered the room shortly before the hearing began. I'm not sure if she is a lobbyist or a member of the legislature in RI, but she was greeted by most of the persons in the room and they all seemed pleased to chat with her. In any case, she appeared to be a staple at the capitol and she seemed to really understand the system. I suppose that it could just be wishful thinking on my part, but if so, I liken it to when Hermione thinks that Harry put a serum in Ron's drink to make him feel more confident. He didn't actually do it, but since Ron believed Harry did, Ron performed almost flawlessly. Like the "Self Fulfilling Prophecy". If I believe that what the woman said was true, I will act on that belief. Then at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">CHAF</span> meeting on Wednesday, I received more validation. I approached the Chairwoman, Sue, at the end of the meeting to request she send the minutes to me as well, she said that she had meant to thank me. When I inquired why, she said that she had been at the Capitol in Hartford when I gave testimony regarding the "Specialty Tier" issue. I heard her speak that day on a different bill, before me and thought she did a great job. She wanted to let me know that I had done a great job and felt that Sen. Crisco(Co-Chair of the committee) had responded positively. So, here again was a positive reaction. The next day, Paul forwarded another e-mail to me. This one was from Sue requesting my e-mail address from Paul. I think the reason that he forwarded it to me was a comment she ended her letter with. She wanted to let him know what a "fabulous" job I did presenting on "Specialty Tiers" in Hartford. Okay, I'm sure you're thinking that I'm "full" of myself. Actually, I'm not. My dad always said that we shouldn't pat ourselves on the back. He didn't think it was appropriate. I loved my dad deeply, but I do think that that is one reason I've never had much self-confidence, and my self-esteem leaves a bit to be desired. But I'm learning! It feels good that I am actually helping others while helping myself grow at the same time! I really enjoy doing this work with US Pain Foundation, and am constantly surprised that I am capable of doing it at all!<br /><br />I guess I had a lot to get out......thanks for hanging in there!<br />Peace,<br />Wendy<br /><br />***I have tried to adjust the time code on this blog, but nothing I try works. It says it's 12:0something, but it's really 6:36 pm on Tuesday the 3rd of April, 2012.<br /></span></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-62076595968898300222012-03-23T16:42:00.004-04:002012-03-23T18:38:21.309-04:00Kennel "Naps" and "Soap Boxes"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdu62MQlMdI8Ck_d7FPF_kihYepR8e0ggVUt-wQqOXPHzJLOo-UIJPeoEM3fcemtv_zmmgao4eAO1Ey4zfAQJ6AhEsYifykKrEOHIC7pUdiBYk5WDYpAIw02uGs5YWG7E42ci7EqylVuWH/s1600/IMG_0307.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdu62MQlMdI8Ck_d7FPF_kihYepR8e0ggVUt-wQqOXPHzJLOo-UIJPeoEM3fcemtv_zmmgao4eAO1Ey4zfAQJ6AhEsYifykKrEOHIC7pUdiBYk5WDYpAIw02uGs5YWG7E42ci7EqylVuWH/s320/IMG_0307.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5723196311415491666" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">What a week we've had! Gorgeous days and peaceful nights..... <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Tippy</span> and I have been doing our practicing every day. Some of the behaviors I occasionally choose a couple and save some for the next day. Recall Level 1&2 I do every day along with fetch, walking "Right", up, jump, off, down/sit w/ stay. I only practice "kennel" a few times a week, because <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Tippy</span>....in all of his excitability....usually falls asleep within just a couple of minutes. He has NO problem staying in the kennel. </span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">As you can see, I've interrupted his nap by finishing his time sooner than he'd like! </span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">I usually follow it with play time. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tippy</span> loves his play time! He especially loves the Kong Frisbee that I had gotten for Alli, but she really didn't enjoy retrieving, aka "get it". She would chase something, sometimes she'd bring it back, but most of the time she made it look good by going full steam after it and then running on by to wherever she wanted to go! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Tippy</span> will chase anything. Sometimes I'll start with a tennis ball, but I almost always finish with the Frisbee. I tried a regular plastic one, but he would bite it while bringing it to me and cause it to crack. When I found the Kong one, you would think that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Tippy</span> was going after a steak! He's just about perfected "Fridge", which I consider quite a feat! While working on "Fetch Phone", I decided that I would get him to fetch my cell phone, too. I didn't let Alli because when she fetched items, they usually got slobbered on....With <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Tippy</span>, not so much. I also feel that since my balance is not so hot, and I usually have my cell phone near by, teaching him to fetch my cell would almost certainly assure me that when I fall I'll be able to get help.<br /><br />I never got around to mentioning our trip to testify in Hartford on the 15<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">th</span>. I went as a Connecticut resident, US Pain Foundation representative but, in this case, I was there primarily as a patient currently struggling with an issue directly related to the bill before the Insurance and Real Estate Committee. Due to my Primary Immune Deficiency, I received an IV every 4 weeks from November of '06-March(or April) '11. The IV was necessary to help to keep me from getting sick. While we don't know what the major disorder is that I have, it does seem that when I am ill, primarily upper respiratory infections, I tend to weaken more quickly. When I recover I don't always recover to the level I was at. In any case, prior to starting the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">IVIG</span>(<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">immunoglobulin</span> G, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">IGg</span>) I averaged 7-10 sinus infections along with various colds and viruses. From Nov. '06-March '11, I had just 3. That was 3 total, not an average, just 3. Since having to stop the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">IVIG</span>, I have had 9 sinus infections, but have suffered from various other respiratory infections continuously. Now, here's the reason I had to stop, and what <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">HB</span> 5486 would mean for me and many, many others who require "Upper Tier" medications. An "Upper Tier" drug is usually <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">injectable</span>, or a higher tier drug which one requires to either maintain their health status or it's actually life-saving as in the case of drugs required by hemophiliacs and others with chronic illnesses. On my private insurance it went from being covered to a co-pay of $350. Along with my other medications, that was more than I could afford every 4 weeks, with some months having a fifth week, and then it would be $700. Due to rising drug costs, I am switching to Medicare for my health care, probably taking Anthem under the Advantage Plan. In their drug "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Formulary</span>" the drug for my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">IVIG</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Gamunex</span>, is listed as a "Tier 6" drug. Tiers 5 & 6 carry a 33% co-pay. As each "dose" runs approximately $2,500-$3,500(depending on the infusion method/administrators), my co-pay would be somewhere between $800 and $1,100. Way out of my "league". Under <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">HB</span> 5486, an insured would only be responsible for $1,000 "out of pocket" per calendar year. That means that I would pay $1,000 towards my first "dose", and not have to interrupt my treatment due to the inability to afford the medication. It may not do away with the tier system, but it certainly does take a major step in the right way. That is Section I of the bill. The remainder of the bill deals with improving testing and screening for breast cancer, and helping to make it more accessible and affordable. I have not been privy to conversations relating to the breast cancer section so I really can't speak to the specifics. However, if it helps to locate and treat the cancer sooner, than I'm certainly in favor of those aspects. If passed, it would take effect January 1, 2013........<br /><br />I have been on my "soap box" long enough, my best to you all, and I appreciate the time you take to read it.<br /><br />Peace,<br />Wendy<br /></span></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-77919777292192518932012-03-20T19:43:00.005-04:002012-03-21T13:29:54.136-04:00Last Day of Winter......?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLhHMqcEbOihcBRsR7rD9aFo7hziEGqIlyADup-9bz9wFEYx3OTmD2D3JrSnlmtLM7kmumtejdSuyYwNJL3ygvM2RDB0ix5txaIdntRG-K32PkoQ-I-FzngIuUpH2hkdW90VM5QnZyiddf/s1600/IMG_0284.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLhHMqcEbOihcBRsR7rD9aFo7hziEGqIlyADup-9bz9wFEYx3OTmD2D3JrSnlmtLM7kmumtejdSuyYwNJL3ygvM2RDB0ix5txaIdntRG-K32PkoQ-I-FzngIuUpH2hkdW90VM5QnZyiddf/s320/IMG_0284.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722129660167334418" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Monday was the last "official" day of winter. It seemed, instead, that we were ushering in the first day of summer! Tippy and I spent a lot of time by the water, just relaxing. We started with my "sanity cruise" along the shore in Old Saybrook. My mom and I actually started doing this way back in the mid nineties. We usually "cruised" in the evening, letting the stress of the day melt away among the serenity of the sand and surf. After a bit, my friend Deb and I would make the drive once or twice a week as well. Then, once my mom passed away in 2007, it became a regular part of my day....at least most days. I usually made the drive with someone, whether it was Deb or one of my children. It was Emmy a lot of the time since she was the youngest and I only taught part time. Since receiving my first service dog I try to start my day with the drive to set me up for a good day. <span style="font-family:georgia;">I pick up a soda at Burger King, and begin by following Rte. 154 along past Great Hammock Beach, Saybrook Town Beach, Cornfield Point, Knollwood, Fenwood and Fenwick(exclusive/private). The causeway is next and I always enjoy seeing the water on the 2 sides. The side that flows under the causeway into a small inlet is usually calm, almost mirror like. Occasionally ripples from a landing swan or Canada Geese interrupt the tranquil scene. </span>As the water from the river approaches the causeway it seems to have minute waves and in windy conditions it gets quite choppy. The contrast between the 2 sides is in itself settling for some reason. Since the weather was so accommodating, we were able to sit on one of the benches at Saybrook Point. It's right at the mouth of the river, and while sitting, looking across the water is Old Lyme. If you look up river, you see the railroad trestle spanning the width, and beyond there's the Baldwin Bridge. No, it's best to look across or down toward the sound. Peace...........<br /><br />From there we drove the 10 minutes heading home and taking the turn to go down into the center of Essex. I love to park alongside the green(behind the post office) and walk down to Steamboat Dock. It used to take me maybe 10 minutes to walk down the street to the dock <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">and </span>all the way back past the green to the head of main street and back to the green again. Now, it takes me at least 30-40 minutes.....with many stops along the way.....just to get down to the dock. Once there, I sit for a bit....a lonnnnng bit....before heading back to the green. No farther! The picture above is Tippy laying on the sand by the dock with ducks and geese beyond. He's so big, that I tend to forget that he's just 17 months. But this picture makes him look like a "little" puppy. He just looks so sweet, he really is so sweet. I honestly don't think that I've had any difficulty with him yet. I really think he did very well for his first time. Why, you might ask, would that be an issue? What you can't see, or hear, is the argument 2 geese were having. Tippy was being sooooo good! He would glance toward the commotion, steal a peek, then whip his head around to look at me and cock his head as if to say, "okay, I'm leaving it, I'm leaving it"! THEN.....he looks at my hip, waiting for my hand to head in that direction to retrieve a piece of gold(or orange!) from its' depths.....a CARROT!!!!! Oh how wonderful it would be if our children....or spouses could be sated by a mere carrot!!!! Any way, the argument turned into a battle, the battle got carried away and seemed to scare even the ducks in attendance. They took flight, dove into the water, quarreled some more, and then as quickly as it began it ended! Tippy wasn't sure whether he loved it, hated it, or should be afraid of it.....we left. We finished up on the green at the gazebo. It was a great day for checking out the sights, sounds, and even the smells of the shoreline. Isn't it interesting that everywhere we went just happened to be near a popular area eatery? I wonder, can one lose weight by smelling good food and not eating? Hmmmm? I just may have to check it out. This next picture is not clear, but you can get a sense of the calm I feel when I finish at the gazebo. Again, depending on which way you face you can get what you want. I choose to look toward the cove and relax in the breeze and view. In a few weeks, the tourists will begin to descend on the town, and if you face the street you see the many attire faux pas! The plaids, stripes, polka-dots.....sometimes all together on the same person.....are enough to drive the locals out of town! But, alas, it's good for our local economy. Just men, PLEASE, stay away from the pink and green plaid pants with the pink sweater over your shoulders! UGH!<br /><br /><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhF-8-GUA_xdMCNRBz3n02q3Xgy5uYY4q999bgzG6isznmT9hrc6g9svqUWjcp2Bm1pK_douvfM9JtIiPAJU6814vKN1BaET9pTQLOScvD25xpI235vnQgriWV2MkkPGOgfLwgtPtvdQPH/s1600/IMG_0305.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhF-8-GUA_xdMCNRBz3n02q3Xgy5uYY4q999bgzG6isznmT9hrc6g9svqUWjcp2Bm1pK_douvfM9JtIiPAJU6814vKN1BaET9pTQLOScvD25xpI235vnQgriWV2MkkPGOgfLwgtPtvdQPH/s320/IMG_0305.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722393654354266082" border="0" /></a></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">One last thing. Remember how I occasionally introduced Alli as a "Pushy Broad"? Well Tippy is the opposite! We went to our local dog park, aka "Paw Park", and there were 3 dogs already there. A husky, and 2 rescued mixes that looked like they could be part Flat Coat Retriever and part Lab. When we arrived at the transition gate, we entered the first set and closed them behind us. I had Tippy in a "Sit/Stay". I began removing his "gear" and he remained sitting. The 2 mixes were yelping and mildly growling...but you could tell it wasn't really aggressive. They were just letting Tippy know they were there first. Their owner held them back so Tippy could calmly enter as it was his first time there. Tippy went in and the owner let the dogs sniff Tippy. It went well, so we let the dogs go to play. The 2 mixes began running by tippy and growled and nipped a few times, not anywhere near him, but he cowered just the same. Then he came and ran behind me. ***(This is what Lucky and Maggie did the first time we took the 3 dogs,including Alli, to Karin's dog park in MA. Alli had just barged ahead and had a good run.) After a minute, Tippy took off to play and everything went well the remainder of the time. I love seeing the different personalities these dogs have and how they maneuver through life's challenges with us. And, how they accept those challenges and thrive along with us.<br /><br />Below is an amazing story of what our canine partners are capable of doing to help us lead normal, productive lives, all while loving us unconditionally.....<br /><br /><a href="http://dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2114840/How-Mr-Gibbs-dog-keeps-keeps-Alida-Knobloch-3-alive-strapping-oxygen-tank-back.html">http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2114840/How-Mr-Gibbs-dog-keeps-keeps-Alida-Knobloch-3-alive-strapping-oxygen-tank-back.html<br /></a><br /><br /><br /></span></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-21647661849061504812012-03-19T13:44:00.004-04:002012-03-20T09:29:14.897-04:00Where Do I Begin?!?!?!?!?!!!<span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="font-size:130%;">I think it's necessary for me to jump around, and not </span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiocD6WHs0KJKuUm5amX67V_SLwL_OZyIe9VbX4lLqDvTY5N8X8KizUnch0Pa41vasUWl_e5005qS7hizVXRkeicoYrvo6d5l5EqvNtWn-eRBINv2B8_CXcGSYd3fv0AQoI2cUmHKyJN9Hc/s1600/IMG_0269.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiocD6WHs0KJKuUm5amX67V_SLwL_OZyIe9VbX4lLqDvTY5N8X8KizUnch0Pa41vasUWl_e5005qS7hizVXRkeicoYrvo6d5l5EqvNtWn-eRBINv2B8_CXcGSYd3fv0AQoI2cUmHKyJN9Hc/s320/IMG_0269.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721666043427247010" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">follow any specific, chronological order....I think you'll see why.<br /><br />I <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">have</span> to start with GRADUATION!!! It was, as always, a most emotional experience. Since graduating with Alli 2 years ago this month, I have only missed one ceremony. Each time whether it is your own graduation, that of someone you know, or not knowing any of the graduates personally, it feels like your first time in attendance. This graduation was both exhilarating and emotional for me. When I traveled with Brian and Andy to the Concord Farm Prison, during our training in February, we were unable to meet the trainers/inmates that had trained "Richie" and "Tippy". They had been paroled. While this is great for them, Brian was very sorry to see them leave because he considered them among the best he had. I was told that Tippy's trainer, Dave, was planning on attending graduation. I honestly can't explain how hopeful I was that he would make it. Tippy is such an amazing Service Dog, as well as an absolutely awesome companion and friend that I was disappointed that I could not meet Dave the day we went to Concord so he could see how his amazing patient, firm, and caring ways had transformed this dog into what he is today. To be honest, I can't remember who, if anybody, brought him over </span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">to me and introduced us. </span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">As soon as they started speaking, I knew just who this young man was! Oh, My, God!!!! How blessed was I to meet Tippy's trainer and have him see Tippy helping me.....in the real world. I don't know how many times I hugged him, with a bit of talking in between, before we were actually able to talk a little. Tippy was thrilled to see Dave, and you could see in Dave's eyes, and in his touch with Tippy that the feeling was mutual and what each had meant to the other. I remember hugging him some more......sorry Dave,(insert hysterical woman warning here!!!) and telling him that the service he provided has meant the world to me! He introduced me to his dad and step-mom, and I mentioned that she had a very special young man for a step-son and they should be so proud of him. She said they were and that Dave is doing a good job trying to get his life in order and making good decisions. His dad and step-mom seemed almost as thrilled to see Tippy as Dave! There's a lot of love there..... I know I had some tears in there somewhere, okay, maybe a few more than some and a few more hugs before the program began....I'm sure Dave was glad to get away from the clutches of the madwoman he had just met. But, come on, what the inmates do in the time they do it, is nothing short of, well, kind of a miracle.....I'm not sure how I feel about miracles, though I believe very strongly in fate....I'm confident that fate most definitely fits in here somewhere. In any case, the picture is of Tippy and me with Dave. I guess you can't really tell how happy I was to see/meet him but I think that's because I was trying to hold the tears back! In hindsight, I wish we had taken a picture of just Dave and Tippy....oh, well, hindsight is 20/20!<br /><br />My graduation, in itself, was rather anti-climatic. I had 2 or 3 short stories or quips but instead I spoke very briefly....at least for me....on how all the dogs should be considered social dogs like the children's, since they allow us to do things we might never have attempted, and speak to persons we might never have had the courage for without our devoted partner and their unconditional love that is palpable and carries us from one day into the next....... OF COURSE I forgot to tell about seeing the puppy picture of Tippy way back in October,(one of NEADS' daily "Cute Puppy" pictures) and joked with my good friend Cindy about wouldn't it be funny if I were to get a dog with a name like "Tippy" to help me with my balance!!! Lisa Brown, from NEADS, made me promise to tell about it. That's what I get for not having anything written down. I had told John Moon, again from NEADS, that this time I wouldn't give an "Oscar Acceptance" speech.....I'd keep it brief. **Note to self: Always try to have at least topic titles written to guide me. Oh, well, I won't need another one for at least 10-12 years....I've really got a keeper in Tippy! The picture below is during my "serious" bit on stage. There's another one with me smiling but I like this one as it shows Tippy looking at me like he almost always does. Tippy's WPR, </span></span><span style="font-size:130%;">Anne Marie, was also at Graduation, as was Tippy's other WPR, Angela. Ellen and Stu were there with Maggie, Karin and her dad were there with Lucky, Deb and her granddaughter Olivia, Becky, Sheryl Serviss and her daughter Christine, who like Ellen suffers from Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, and my son Aaron were all there! Amy Reay and her hearing dog, Delancy also graduated and were there along with a BUNCH of her friends! I also saw others I have met through NEADS, Alexis Courneen, her service dog Sooner,and Alexis' family, WPR Bee Lincoln and her current pup in training, Grafton, the trainers, and let's just say everyone! Afterward, Amy and her friends, and my friends and me all went to the local Applebee's. We were in 2 groups due to the number of us. At Applebee's, I met Elaine. She was on her way to the NEADS campus to begin her 2 weeks of training with her new dog....again, I can't remember the dog's name!!!!! Isn't that just the way it should work? Here a bunch of us were celebrating the culmination of our journey that brought us to our dog, and then there's Elaine, beginning her own journey........ It's actually a journey that never ends, NEADS NATION just keeps enlarging, one class at a time, one dog at a time, one life at a time.........</span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBf7SFaapVn-N1ipLO6wZpkLpj1V8oa5Uip6JTsFKbQaWN-85Jdhyn5rMtOd4F3hv2OolImG4Ex0qCMCnU4pyoXrx910xV-yO9w79NU0Y2aen6J-CujzCllBrpi9UTg0cLqbdPMD7TxCC7/s1600/IMG_0271.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBf7SFaapVn-N1ipLO6wZpkLpj1V8oa5Uip6JTsFKbQaWN-85Jdhyn5rMtOd4F3hv2OolImG4Ex0qCMCnU4pyoXrx910xV-yO9w79NU0Y2aen6J-CujzCllBrpi9UTg0cLqbdPMD7TxCC7/s320/IMG_0271.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5721679848978954386" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:130%;"> I had also traveled up to NEADS the previous day, the 17th. It was a "Day of Learning". It ran from about 11 am 'til 2:30 pm. The program was divided into 3 topics. The first consisted of seeing a brief video which has several NEADS clients, including Alli and me, explaining what NEADS means to us, and how the dogs have helped us live enhanced, more independent lives, improving the quality of our lives. It was neat to see Alli in the piece, but it's always difficult to watch the end as it has the picture of Alli kissing Olivia(Deb's granddaughter), and Livy bending in her car seat to kiss Alli. The video was followed by information </span><span style="font-size:130%;">from John and Sherrie Forest on volunteer opportunities at NEADS, and the upcoming "Unleash the Possibilities-Walk for NEADS" on June 2nd. If anyone reading this would like to either be on my team, "Team</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> Paws", or would like to make a donation to "NEADS" through me and my team, let me know. NEADS operates solely on donations and grants and is a non-profit organization. The goal for each team is to raise $1,000. I figure if I can get at least 10 members on my team, and they each secure donations totaling $100, it would be a great start!!! This organization is such an awesome "family" of many people with a variety of skills who turn out 50-70 "Teams" every year(A team consists of a human partner and one of the following canine partners: service, hearing, social, ministry, school assist, or trauma alert(PTSD).</span> <span style="font-size:130%;">The next portion was what I had really driven the nearly 2 hours for. Kathy Foreman showed us how to massage our dogs. There are specific strokes, depending on what part of the dog you're working on. It was very interesting, and well worth the drive. I had let Tippy play before the drive, so he was a bit tired and I could tell he wasn't into it. Kathy said that if they didn't want you to do it, don't force it. I was happy to learn that the massage I gave Alli every night(almost every night!) was not too far off from what Kathy showed us. I think the important aspect for me was that you need to apply "adequate" pressure. She told us to put the fingers of our right hand together with our thumb behind them and apply pressure to our closed eyes. At the point where it starts to hurt our eye, that's the amount of pressure that we should apply when massaging our dog. I know I never used this kind of pressure. The third part of the day was an interesting discussion with Dr. Trish Dettlinger, DVM. She began with slides about the "4 P's". To be honest, I can only remember the first one, Prevention. How bad is that!? She discussed the "Health and Longevity" of our dogs. She answered questions about dental care, knowing and trusting your veterinarian, joint care, supplements, .......etc! She works with the husband of Alli's ophthalmologist, Federica Maggio, DVM, in a clinic in Sterling....I think. She was very nice. It was also great to see Tippy's WPR, Anne Marie. She had just picked up a new pup, Mason, the night before. He's a 9 mos old yellow Lab. She doesn't know if she'll have him longer than this weekend.<br /><br />Today I took a bunch of pictures of Tippy at Saybrook Point, Steamboat Dock in Essex, and on the Essex green in the Gazebo. I was going to file another post today, but to be honest, I'm exhausted! I fought a migraine for the last 2 days, and, while I was able to avoid the extreme outcome, it still took a lot out of me. It took 3 rounds of my heating pad last night to calm my back so I could lay down without wincing too much. (Due in part, I'm sure, from driving about 400+/- miles in 2 days!) It took another 3 rounds this morning before my legs could move enough to get me going. Tippy is looking like he's dying to play so I think I'll have a little more fun before I'm down for the count today. I always have to choose whether activities I have planned are worth the probably outcome....they almost always are.<br /><br />Hopefully, my next post will include information about our trip up to Hartford to testify last Thursday, and the interview with NBC 30 following. I can't tell you how good it is to have the kind of confidence I alway wished I had when I was younger. I so enjoy speaking up/out for those who may not be able to do so themselves, and knowing that it's true.....one person can make a difference.....and when we work together so much is possible!<br /></span></div> </div><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><br /><br /></span></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-81248552150085696732012-03-13T21:19:00.004-04:002012-03-13T22:57:20.718-04:00Getting Experience? Check!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHysPPw0dc-G-w57B-ygyvQ9SY8ZpnKD5bxt_IfbDpvnPdIkvIUBm7GAu9tJEJFeh1z2FhGxfT9aVgHWryFQvbDPX7bIDQMrOsipkShFUeD9V3FrnCmdVLTSK3csdHRzUOhsmXEktCW8jZ/s1600/IMG_0249.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHysPPw0dc-G-w57B-ygyvQ9SY8ZpnKD5bxt_IfbDpvnPdIkvIUBm7GAu9tJEJFeh1z2FhGxfT9aVgHWryFQvbDPX7bIDQMrOsipkShFUeD9V3FrnCmdVLTSK3csdHRzUOhsmXEktCW8jZ/s320/IMG_0249.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719558348396813682" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Last week I told you about Tippy making himself comfortable in church....on the pew! On Monday we went to church and spent 40 minutes practicing, "Through", followed by "Back". It took several tries to even get close to backing into the pew. No matter how perfectly I had him positioned to back into the pew, it seems he's got one of those rear cameras installed so that as he neared the opening, he would "swish" his rump to the side and look up at me quite innocently.**</span><span style="font-family:times new roman;">(the camera is obviously faulty because he avoids the open space and goes for solid wood...go figure!)</span><span style="font-family:times new roman;"> Now, you can't see the camera, but it must be there because he certainly doesn't have eyes in the back of his head! He finally got it</span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"> right when I let him see his special treat before he started back. But, come Sunday, he required 3 attempts before getting it right. Oh, My, God! It reminds me of my first few driving lessons with my dad and practicing those wretched "K" turns....not to worry, I made sure my kids were blessed with that same glorious experience! We made it in, and he spent almost the entire hour leaning his head against the edge of the pew pad from his "Down/Stay" staring at me. You know that feeling you get sometimes when you're sure someone is watching you and the hair on the back of your neck gets "bristly" feeling? Well it's even worse when you're staring right back at them! Each time I looked, I had to stare back until he looked away. It's necessary so they continue to see you as the "Pack Leader". I did A LOT of staring at him, even when singing hymns! It's a good thing I sit throughout the service, I'm not able to stand for very long, but I'm sure it seemed that I was in an alternate universe to the other parishioners. I also continued the tradition that began with Alli by giving communion to Tippy. My former Associate Minister, Mitzi Eilts, started it when Alli and I attended her service for the residents at our local health center. She automatically included Alli when she offered communion to the residents. From that point on, I have always taken an extra piece of bread from the plate. When we partake of ours, I hold on to Tippy's until I receive my mini shot glass of juice. I dip Tippy's bread into the juice first before I drink, and offer the soaked bread to him. When he's taken it, I drink my portion. It has always felt right to me, so I continue to do this. Tippy was great during the entire service. We briefly attended coffee hour before heading to the Lenten book series in the Cove View Room. We are reading "Speaking Christian", by Marcus Borg. Definitely a good read as well as thought provoking.<br /><br />I must go back to last Monday.....I jumped ahead to this past Sunday....I guess that explains how my brain has been working! Last Monday Tippy had his first "well" visit to the veterinarian. Some people have told me that my "Mr. Slow Mo'" will get more peppy as he gets used to his new forever home. The vet said that he had a nice, slow, heart rate, to go with his personality.....so I guess he's going to remain a "chill" pup. I also found out that Tippy has lost about 1.5 lbs since coming home. He was 82.6 on the 20th of February, 82.1 at home on the 24th at the vet's, and at his well check on the 5th of March he was just 81.2 lbs. I had my follow-up check in with Brian yesterday and said that for the time being we should keep everything as it is. Sometimes the dogs may lose a pound or two when they first come home. He did say, however, to let him know if he lost much more. I imagine in that case we may end up increasing the amount of food he gets each day. The vet, Dr. Cheryl Brienza, DVM, had already planned on checking Tippy's eyes in a darkened room as she was Alli's general vet and is aware of her disorder. His eyes, thank God, seem to be okay to her. She doesn't have the correct lens that the specialist has, but this is enough to get me to Tippy's free eye exam in May. I had mentioned to Dr. Brienza that Tippy has goopy eyes like Alli and I was wiping them quite a bit. She said that his tear ducts might be blocked....they were. Dr. Brienza felt that Tippy was so calm that she thought she could probably flush his tear ducts without anesthesia. So she did. HE IS SOOOOOO CHILL!!!!! I LOVE IT!!!!! <br /><br />On Wednesday Mark and I had consecutive eye appointment with the ophthalmologist. Mark went first so he could head back to work. Tippy was calm all during Mark's appt., and through most of mine. He did, however, get up from his "Down/Stay" when the tech used the large "do-hickey" to check the pressure in my eyes. He actually came up to the tech and licked his elbow! He was calm, and just stood there watching after the "lick" until I was able to give him a correction. Interesting....Tippy just letting the tech know to take care of his "mom"?<br /><br />Later that same day I had another appointment with my immunologist. Since I have not been able to receive my IVIG, for my Primary Immune Deficiency, for just about a year, we discussed alternatives.**(Tippy and I are going to testify before the committee on Insurance and Real Estate on Thursday for a bill which includes addressing "Specialty Tiers" on insurance companies' drug formularies. My IV med is a "Tier 6" drug, subject to a 33% co-pay!) Once again, Tippy was great throughout the 1.5 hour wait for the appt., the 40 min. actual appointment, and during the blood draw to check my levels within my immune system. My immunologist talked about how animals/dogs are undervalued when it comes to the benefits they provide to their human partners. SO TRUE!!! <br /><br />On Thursday Tippy met Alli's former classmates and friends, Lucky and Maggie.....the canine partners of Karin and Ellen. They got on famously!!! Tippy is such a puppy! He's crazy when he plays, and when he runs he sometimes has that loping puppy run! They romped and played after we had lunch. The only "rift" is that Ellen's new rescued dog, Lily(about 3?) seems to have an issue with Tippy when we are indoors. It's most likely due to the fact that they have had her just a week or so, so she's still adjusting. She had no problem with him when we were outside, running around with the others. It's almost comical because they're are good sized dogs and she's a terrier mix. She's absolutely adorable!! I'm sure with time Tippy and Lily will get along just fine.<br /><br />I've run on long enough, some more big days are on the horizon,<br />Good Night,<br />Peace,<br />Wendy<br /><br /></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-19227485155277727192012-03-04T15:25:00.017-05:002012-03-04T16:51:17.939-05:00SUCCESS!!!!!!!!! (aka I Love Swiss Cheese!)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EuMLCdc4YoJR7T0OHlOaWOR_vimgOs9t1dkC1cil1EMM4A_OpYQZCuRmgyDhVGXjzhTJZO9vtX31F_wwLJPb9uao7uLvZQvj6UC872AR-sqxhG3MQPjY86y5bDhyphenhyphendoPeEBcKb_vt2ZSV/s1600/IMG_0208.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9EuMLCdc4YoJR7T0OHlOaWOR_vimgOs9t1dkC1cil1EMM4A_OpYQZCuRmgyDhVGXjzhTJZO9vtX31F_wwLJPb9uao7uLvZQvj6UC872AR-sqxhG3MQPjY86y5bDhyphenhyphendoPeEBcKb_vt2ZSV/s320/IMG_0208.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716145782328907746" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq9NJ52MMksnkGU4Tv1G94B2vcRPGxAiIIZoub71mcEdyGOgRw7GvZIyUaDmyh4CpLbdbcT1Zpx-GtJQ0KwKyvLLAa6r_rm_v8_gzyOU798MnqF9BJN8xhtWXboNc2mS6d7TIj5GJNW2tX/s1600/IMG_0200.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq9NJ52MMksnkGU4Tv1G94B2vcRPGxAiIIZoub71mcEdyGOgRw7GvZIyUaDmyh4CpLbdbcT1Zpx-GtJQ0KwKyvLLAa6r_rm_v8_gzyOU798MnqF9BJN8xhtWXboNc2mS6d7TIj5GJNW2tX/s320/IMG_0200.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716145643192334034" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhyEwH_LO2xK0ZVJD29Mne8vc8cPsl3dFSKSEpTFAo-4h4SIkVWSaU3a81fIKbVWLXdswe75L0zAxEAg64jflDTqNjMXtcbuzGV1Lpj4Eiaf_2L9p1pFubcx7i6o3IYa9l6rHcZG6s8b7/s1600/IMG_0205.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDhyEwH_LO2xK0ZVJD29Mne8vc8cPsl3dFSKSEpTFAo-4h4SIkVWSaU3a81fIKbVWLXdswe75L0zAxEAg64jflDTqNjMXtcbuzGV1Lpj4Eiaf_2L9p1pFubcx7i6o3IYa9l6rHcZG6s8b7/s320/IMG_0205.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716145432657142434" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivOeg4k6RugCOpp9APNLRwjc7MBRvwHbkBA2a37FFOOBqpn_ytNxtB1i1CA1z1gJpRjTl7jzBnt22wskWfNXWdJk8hDY1rYRgyMJAh6dBkHUQpMai03axQnX5NcxbXEoEUGYjvsWxiU3tl/s1600/IMG_0206.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivOeg4k6RugCOpp9APNLRwjc7MBRvwHbkBA2a37FFOOBqpn_ytNxtB1i1CA1z1gJpRjTl7jzBnt22wskWfNXWdJk8hDY1rYRgyMJAh6dBkHUQpMai03axQnX5NcxbXEoEUGYjvsWxiU3tl/s320/IMG_0206.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716145274249519090" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQSHbt69e9qIHQP4gcavzTnVhSKvkvCwgqBRuM-u5g_E0kKPH-wkKcCNrV6SNmnEruwvyciBiBtEF-RCztPnrLxFhhU-zrLOutIZZwZssRkKoOMYBRF0Mpjww4GOcaivybKpwrHiBBqeE/s1600/IMG_0207.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggQSHbt69e9qIHQP4gcavzTnVhSKvkvCwgqBRuM-u5g_E0kKPH-wkKcCNrV6SNmnEruwvyciBiBtEF-RCztPnrLxFhhU-zrLOutIZZwZssRkKoOMYBRF0Mpjww4GOcaivybKpwrHiBBqeE/s320/IMG_0207.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716145138430968690" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">We did it!!!! Isn't Swiss cheese WONDERFUL!!!!! Tippy will do almost anything if the payout is worth it!!!! SWISS CHEESE!!!! I tried it at NEADS during training since that was the only <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">special treat </span></span>I had available when I needed it. Tippy thought it was amazing and was able to perform "Recall Level I & II" as long as he knew that there was this amazing, stupendous, delicious, scrumptious treat when he got it right!<br /><br />When we were doing "Fridge", Tippy, as I've said before, would back out of the fridge if the door appeared to be closing in on him. For this reason, I needed to voice each step of the ultimate "fetch" procedure. 1) Fridge (after a very excited "are you ready, are you ready?) 2) Fetch 3) Hold 4) Nudge 5) Hold 6) Closer(if necessary....rarely is it necessary) 7) Give Richie was very quick as he's very much a "go-getter" and appeared to be "racing" for a better time when just given the command, "Fridge". Today, we hit the "Jackpot"!!!!!! After the last few days of step-by-step commands, Tippy started the day with just the "Fridge" and "Nudge" commands! I took a break for a couple of hours, and sure enough, all I needed to say was, "Fridge"! He did look at me as he switched to each behavior, but just that one command was all that was necessary! I know that once they do it right we're supposed to stop, but Tippy honestly looked so pleased with himself I had to do it again so that he could be rewarded a second time!!!! YAAAAAAAAAY!!!! Besides the cheese, he got a million "Good Boy" and side pats.....this, he also loves!!!! **I think it's also important to point out that I have a "French door fridge with the freezer drawer below......so, he had to add an extra step, "Up" to be able to reach the dumbbell. KUDOS TO TIPPY!!!! I will try to get it filmed as he becomes more confident, but right now he needs to be able to see my look of approval as he completes his "mission". **(If someone from NEADS reads this, please tell Brian....he's not calling until Friday!!!!) <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Mr. Slow-Mo has "Go-Go"!!</span>(at least for today!)<br /><br />Considering that he's learned that "Necessity is the mother of invention", it's a darn good thing he performed so admirably today! Tippy has been getting along with George(our 13 yr old tiger cat) better than I had expected. I didn't think there would be any real problem, however, since Alli had always done her bouncing play bow around and around George I guess I kind of expected the same type of behavior. Tippy has a different tactic! "Kill him with kindness!" He licks and licks George all over and I thought George was having enough. I had just told Tippy to "be nice", when I realized that despite his licking knocking George over with each "lap", George was purring and stretching his neck out for more! So I've been letting Tippy have free range of the first floor....my bedroom is on the first floor....because I don't have to worry about any dog vs cat <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">cat</span>astrophe:) I have George's food pushed way in the corner under the center island with the bucket of cat food on one side, the basket with the pouches of moist cat food on the other, and my stool wedged in the middle. George can fit in, but I made sure Tippy can't. Or so I thought!!! Yesterday morning Mark yelled from the family room that my dog was in the cat food! I couldn't figure out how so I went to investigate.....OMG.....it's that analytical "thing" again!!! Tippy had carefully pulled the basket out from it's wedged in position w/out knocking it over, and he had his head about 2" from the cat's bowl. He knew he had been caught red handed because his head pulled out, his ears lay flat, he looked at me w/ out picking up his head, and then he "skulked" back to my room! So, now when he has a "yen" for a feline feast, he has learned to "tip toe" out of the room....I guess this is payback for not having the terrible twos with any of my children(I did, however, have the "formidable fours"!). I watched Tippy tip toe to my door, and very nonchalantly, look back before continuing on. I know when he's going for the cat food, because neither his feet nor his "tags" make any noise. When I catch him and he comes back, you can hear both.....you also hear them any other time he's moving about without interest in the cat food!<br /><br />The last 2 Sundays, Tippy has done "through" to sit facing me as I stand facing the pew in church. I then say "back" repeatedly until he's in far enough and I tell him "down". Today he just wouldn't back in and I was forced to have him lead me in and then tell him "turn". **(I guess I'll be stopping by church this week to practice a few times!) When Alli used to come to church, she always led the way, put her forepaws on the pew, turned her body and put her paws back on the floor and would lay down. I <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">assumed </span></span>Tippy would do the same....WRONG!!!! He led the way, I told him to "turn" and he automatically put his forepaws on the pew. At this point, I figured I had it under control and began to sit.....HE JUMPED TOTALLY ONTO THE PEW AND STARTED TO LAY DOWN!!!! I told him "OFF" in no uncertain terms and he honestly looked indignant!!! How dare I ask him to lay on the floor when I had the comfy pew pad to sit on....all 1" of padding!!!!! Needless to say he got off, lay down, and the only sounds I heard were his snoring and some groaning.....oh well. He did perk up a bit when I had communion for him as well. I took 2 little chunks of bread when the plate came by, and when directed I ate mine. When the "juice" came by I just took 1 tiny glass cup. When directed to drink, I dipped the 2nd piece of bread into the juice, fed that piece to Tippy and consumed the remaining juice. He was licking his "lips"(?) for at least a minute or two....I'd tell him it was only juice and not wine, but why ruin the experience for him!!!!<br /><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-33202064074889404102012-03-03T09:08:00.004-05:002012-03-03T10:22:01.340-05:00Busy 1st Week!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmUh94MgjASdSJxQGP7ZFyP09XdP-DfEPL1lyUj8mi3YqMMaxtrdl5Po7-BgYftEp99bMj0EDOZ7fJPtIW_s8T7g5mlTTkEUzr_9qW2IKdpogIAraEfHClDJE10AeHu4p0WOu9fRaIJV3/s1600/IMG_0191.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFmUh94MgjASdSJxQGP7ZFyP09XdP-DfEPL1lyUj8mi3YqMMaxtrdl5Po7-BgYftEp99bMj0EDOZ7fJPtIW_s8T7g5mlTTkEUzr_9qW2IKdpogIAraEfHClDJE10AeHu4p0WOu9fRaIJV3/s320/IMG_0191.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715672688125657986" border="0" /></a><span style="font-family:times new roman;"><span style="font-size:130%;">We had a very busy 1st week home. I guess you could almost say "trial by fire"! We arrived home from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">NEADS</span> on Friday the 24<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> of February. We didn't come directly home, though. I decided to stop at URI for my daughter to meet <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tippy</span>, but more so that we could walk <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Tippy</span> through one of the theaters. Emmy is in the production of "Tartuffe"("The <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Impostor</span>") by the URI theater department. We had tickets for Saturday night, and since we were just coming home, I thought it would be a good idea for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Tippy</span> to at least have some familiarity with the theater. As it turned out, the doors were locked so I had <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Tippy</span> sniffing around both entrances. He looked a bit like a "bomb sniffing" dog. It was almost comical. When we arrived back at URI on Saturday night, I realized that I don't go in either of the entrances.....Michael(the theater manager) takes me down via the elevator. Oh, well, at least <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Tippy</span> had a mild introduction ahead of time! Em had reserved seats for 5 of us. I sat in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">nd</span> row on the floor with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Tippy</span> and my friend Cindy. We had the first two seats in from the isle. I have found through experience with Alli that the isle seat allows for plenty of ventilation.....and a good view from under the seats! Mark, Aaron and Pat(Mark's mom) sat behind us. I had forgotten the "set up) of the story by Moliere.</span></span> "J" Studio, where we were, is small, very dark(all the walls are black), and everything is very up close and personal. When the play began, the participants came running from all angles and were VERY loud! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Tippy</span> was laying at my feet on his side. I knew we were "home free" when <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Tippy's</span> reaction to the din was to merely stretch his neck so that he could see the action!<br /><br />On Monday we went to the Essex Town Hall to get <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Tippy's</span> license. That's the picture above. I told him he needed to take it very seriously because he was about to become a Connecticut resident. As you can see, he did! This was just after receiving his "tag".<br /><br />Tuesday, late afternoon or evening, I received an e-mail from Paul(US Pain Foundation) which he had forwarded to me. It told of a bill coming before the Health and Human Services committee in RI the next day. It was similar to the CT bill that I had helped with last year pertaining to "Step Therapy", aka "Fail First" as it relates to prescription medication. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">RI's</span> is different in that it is not as narrowly defined as the CT bill. It encompasses all <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">rx's</span>, not just pain <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">meds</span>. as in CT. I asked Paul if he'd like me to attend, and he thought it would be a good idea, along with my <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">NEADS</span> classmate(from Alli's class), Ellen Smith, a Rhode Island resident and advocate for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Ehlers</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Danlos</span>, American Pain Foundation and RI Arthritis Assoc. As I'm sure most of you are aware that Wednesday was a terrible day for winter weather in New England. I typed up a few notes and, wouldn't you know, I was in such a hurry to get ahead of the weather I left the notes home. I actually drove to Ellen's home and then rode with them to Providence. As the hearing was scheduled for 4:30 pm, I did not want to drive through Providence traffic at rush hour in the snow/sleet/rain. Ellen and I both testified, after which we felt somewhat positive. It was difficult to judge the direction the bill will take. Of course, BC/BS, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">CVS</span>, etc., were present to speak against the bill. We left after our testimony, but by the questions we were asked by the senators on the committee, it seems that it may move forward with an amendment or two. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Tippy</span> was amazing! I have such eye contact with him, that at times it's really almost eerie. One of the senators, before asking her questions of me, commented on how <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Tippy</span> hadn't stopped staring at me the whole time.....she did notice that at times he was very close to the "treat pouch" with the sliced carrots I wear at my side! The picture below is of my testimony, with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">Tippy</span> visible on the far side. I asked one of the pages to take a picture of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">Tippy</span> with me "up" there, but it didn't dawn on me to put him on my opposite side. Once you begin to testify, that's not something that you have on your mind. Especially since I was working without any notes! About the only thing I get from this picture is that I need to lose weight. I know some people look in the mirror and see themselves as much heavier than they are.....I, however, have apparently been thinking I'm smaller than I am!!! I don't suppose a still camera adds 10.....or even 20.....pounds to the individual like a television camera.....I didn't think so!!!!! :( I have 2 weeks until our <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">NEADS</span> graduation and I think I'm going to try to lose a little.....right after my late breakfast with Deb this morning!<br /><br />Until next time,<br />Wendy & <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Tippy</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggadkHS4HYJEGeLbtNDfjMQ7WdZFGylotlCCUhYszZ3Qcc0t_NLzYO3gaOw6y1JjDIvFpircVVm-e01ni8GKUaaidCg0hkvUpgKOziouTLzVYxolJdCFzGgeWlb5m9BWZdISGYCI1W3Z9S/s1600/IMG_0198.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggadkHS4HYJEGeLbtNDfjMQ7WdZFGylotlCCUhYszZ3Qcc0t_NLzYO3gaOw6y1JjDIvFpircVVm-e01ni8GKUaaidCg0hkvUpgKOziouTLzVYxolJdCFzGgeWlb5m9BWZdISGYCI1W3Z9S/s320/IMG_0198.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715690232813527922" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><br /></div>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-76309334643404767432012-02-27T15:08:00.002-05:002012-02-27T23:18:21.547-05:00A Trip Home, Kind Of.......<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQaqKxmqSTxeY8E-7nYvK44DhVp7gI7wWeG-MdlyYSxqM8VXxxAJ5mGVe5DCVRHIHJpJ9S95tn6wC98GmHCaIGLKY5qBChIg8UK-RQzS9maZpVblIIPtQwiDXtOjESpBcPfi62Px1O6utm/s1600/IMG_0157.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQaqKxmqSTxeY8E-7nYvK44DhVp7gI7wWeG-MdlyYSxqM8VXxxAJ5mGVe5DCVRHIHJpJ9S95tn6wC98GmHCaIGLKY5qBChIg8UK-RQzS9maZpVblIIPtQwiDXtOjESpBcPfi62Px1O6utm/s320/IMG_0157.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713912447784156370" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:courier new;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Here are Richie(left), and Tippy. This was in the van following an awesome trip to Concord Farm, the prison where they were trained....amazingly well</span></span><span style="font-family:arial;">....for their job as service dogs.<br /><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">I have to say, I was very impressed. When we arrived, we signed in, and the men and their dogs were there waiting to walk with Brian, Andy and myself to the gymnasium. We arrived, and the men sat in chairs in a semi-circle with Andy and I in front. They began by introducing themselves and their dogs. I could already see that this was indeed a group who were immensely proud of their dogs. Each one of them smiled or smirked as they said the dog's name. What a wonderful program to match man with "man's best friend". Andy and I then introduced ourselves, told a little bit about our disability and how the dog would help us. We each also mentioned how much we appreciated the work being done by this group, how much it means to us to receive one of these very special dogs, and how the dogs would be helping each of us. Brian made a point of telling the men that we were why they do what they do. To keep in mind that the dogs they are training are for the disabled. They need to keep that in mind, that while they may be able to find a way for a dog to complete a task in a different manner for them, the dogs are being trained for those who cannot complete these tasks by themselves, or without much difficulty. The men then had time to ask very poignant questions. We also heard some anecdotal things about the dogs which made us all chuckle. I think this program, and these visits in particular, are necessary for both inmate, and client....and I think it's also good for the dogs. The inmates need to know that those they've cared for have become a good partner for someone who cares and will benefit from their unique abilities and companionship. The clients also need to know that their new partner was raised and trained by those who loved and cared for the dog. And, believe it or not, I think it can't hurt for the dog to visit one last time the place that helped to shape who they are today. I realize I've taken a lot of time just to say how much I appreciate all the love, care and training the dogs have had and that there is no way I could ever take it for granted. I have been blessed and trusted for the second time with a most amazing gift and partner. How awesome is this. How amazing that this is occurring in 13 correctional facilities in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.....it's really a rhetorical question.....it's obviously both awesome and amazing and many words I can't think of at the moment....WOW!!!!<br /><br />I had originally planned to pack Wednesday night, following the Meet and Greet, and<br />head out Thursday after the visit to Concord. "The best laid plans...."! I was extremely sore by Tuesday, and more so Wednesday. Brian had said that it was probably a good thing that we finished early as I might not have been able to finish all of the training. I would, however, been able to finish. I would have finished and then probably been down for 2-3 days as always. I can just about always do complete any task or adventure knowing full well that I'll pay later. I always say that when faced with a decision of whether to do something or not, I look ahead and think if it's worth it. As I've always said....it usually is....with it's price. But why miss out? In any case, I ended up having to pack just a little after the visit and finish Friday morning and leave shortly thereafter.<br /><br />The paperwork I received with my match letter included the guidelines for the dress code when visiting the correctional facility. It, of course, said no jewelry. Now, I don't where a lot of jewelry, a ring on each finger, my watch, 4 bracelets(each with sentimental value....and quite narrow), and earrings. The only thing that changes day to day are my earrings. I obliged with the rules, with just my rings remaining on. When I returned from the prison, I put them all on. I was on my way out of the house to bring Tippy's file to Dan at the kennel, and remembered that I had forgotten to put my earrings on. I put Tippy on "Sit/Stay" and went into my room to retrieve them off the shelf. "Vanity, thy name is Woman"..... Okay, so when I reached for the earrings they started to fall. I reached for them....WRONG MOVE!! As I reached, they slipped off the shelf, and when I went to grab them, I went down. Ay-yi-yi!(sp?) I called Tippy. Now, usually, because he doesn't want to make a mistake, he takes a second or two to think before following a command. Not this time! He came running! I almost didn't believe it. He came right to me, I positioned him on my right side, and using Tippy on the right, and the chair on the left I was able to get up. I went to put the earrings back on the shelf to "get my bearings" and knocked my pill box off the shelf!!! REALLY!! Once again, as I reached for the falling case I went down again! Thank God Tippy was still there....and he obligingly stood firm. Ask me how foolish I felt....don't bother, I really feel mega foolish....<br /><br />Thursday night I sat back for a bit to have a little dinner, watch even less television, and try to relax a bit. Do you know what happens when you have a fall where you tried to stop yourself from going down? You strain muscles all over. And, do you know what happens to those strained muscles when you sit for a while without moving? They become even more sore so that even the slightest movement causes great pain.....guess what I did? Yup, I sat too long! I just can't win....except with Tippy. He's certainly a "keeper"!<br /><br />Our departure went without a hitch, with the exception that I didn't get a chance to say good-bye to Andy and Richie. Andy went to the training room to exercise Richie while I was still packing and loading. He then had a meeting with the woman who is working with the Veterans and their dogs concerning their PTSD. I planned to stop into the main office on my way out and thought that it would be around the time that Andy would be done. When I arrived I said my good-byes but Andy was still in his meeting. I'm really sorry the timing wasn't better. He is such a good person, with a good heart and soul. You don't meet too many young men his age these days who are truly gentlemen. He is one. I'm hoping to connect with him on FB, and eventually through e-mail.<br /><br />Saturday involved a few errands, and then it was "trial by fire" for Tippy. Friday night we attended a performance of "Tartuffe" at the University of Rhode Island. My daughter is a senior Theatre major in the Fine Arts department. She has the part of "Mariane". It's a loud, boisterous farce, and Tippy weathered it just about perfectly. We were in the 2nd row on the floor, and Tippy's head was at the end of the aisle, at my feet. The play began with a lot of shouting, stamping of feet, and crazy running from off stage through the audience and onto the stage. Tippy just slid his head backward so as to have a better view. He did great.....YAY!!!! Oh, and Emily was AMAZING!!!! She was so sweet and cute....yeah, a great actress!!!! Just kidding, Em!! The show was superb! URI has a wonderful Theatre program.... I'm so glad Tippy did so well, I love the theatre, ballet, movies, and concerts.....he's certainly going to get a good cultural experience!<br /><br />Sunday went very well also. Tippy slept during church with the occasional moan or groan in conjunction with finding a comfortable position. Alli snored, and Tippy moans....I wonder which is worse if you're the minister?!? Following the service, we(the Membership Committee) hosted coffee hour since it was "New Member" Sunday. Although I can usually be counted on to bake, I wasn't able to this time since I had just returned from my 2 week training period. It was a nice opportunity to speak with a few of the new members. But, after coffee hour the morning was still not done. During Lent we have a "Lenten Series" using the book, "Speaking Christian" written by Marcus Borg. I really enjoy these opportunities to discuss in an open setting how we each view our own feelings of religion and/or Christianity. Once again, Tippy simply "hung out" biding his time until we would leave on our next "adventure"!<br /><br />Today consisted of a series of errands and time to cuddle. We also fit in our daily practice, exercise and conversations to keep each other company.<br /><br />I will forever be amazed at how our service dog/partner always seems to know what we're thinking, and how we're feeling. It has been just 4 1/2 mos. without a partner, and I've missed that constant connection and feeling of belonging in the world. I feel so blessed to have that in my life once again.......<br /><br />I don't know about you, but I'm more than ready to say good-night......Good Night!<br />Wendy & Tippy!<br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /></span></span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:arial;"></span></span></div>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-55009351631973766962012-02-22T16:15:00.000-05:002012-02-22T17:03:15.500-05:00Have Faith, People, Have Faith.......<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZLGj9Jsy3PfSjNPLdrVq7kXtSQbUkn3gRCDztm10XsF-f8jOLrbDt40cxF1H6kQ-2TCS8l3jviYgFwhzfP4wcvZACTccDoYCWWVlUPCu7ompkMYgv2G7i-7nbOQTj6il078UHUja5yko/s1600/IMGP2045.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZLGj9Jsy3PfSjNPLdrVq7kXtSQbUkn3gRCDztm10XsF-f8jOLrbDt40cxF1H6kQ-2TCS8l3jviYgFwhzfP4wcvZACTccDoYCWWVlUPCu7ompkMYgv2G7i-7nbOQTj6il078UHUja5yko/s320/IMGP2045.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712072487495924114" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">I thought that after I'd made such a big deal about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Tippy's</span> size and speed, or lack there of, it would be only fair to include a picture of The Great <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Tippy</span> On The Trail! Actually, it's obviously taken at the same time and place as last night's, but he's using the "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">shnozz</span>" I spoke of. That's something to see! He may take his time following a command in order to do it just right, but I'm willing to bet he'd be a great tracking dog, even without the usually necessary drive! Once again today, while exercising in the training room, he found every last morsel of "treats" that</span> <span style="font-size:130%;">was left behind.....I'm sure of it!!! He'll chase after the ball or rope, and on his way back he'll spy the bit and after delivering the toy, he turns, goes right to the spot, checks out the area so as not to miss anything scrumptious, then comes back to have a chase again! Sometimes he'll stop mid-run, put the toy down, devour the tidbit, pick up the toy and come bounding back. Today I watched him figure out that if the ball is rolling and he puts his foot on it, it stays put. And, when he takes his paw off and nudges the ball it will roll again so he can once again put his paw on it to stop it! It really was hilarious!</span> <span style="font-size:130%;">With his massive paw on the tennis ball, he would bend down and check out all around the ball, before releasing it and repeating the steps. It really is funny how you can really tell the dogs personality and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">temperament</span> by watching closely! When Brian said he was analytical with a very low prey drive, he meant it......but, I would add, unless he catches a really good scent! Yesterday when the ball rolled under some of the wheel chairs in the room which are next to the Big Wheel I told you about, I watched him slowly move from one side to the other seemingly studying each of the possibilities before choosing the best option and proudly carrying it back. **(The proudly part didn't really happen, he just brought the ball back, but it sounds better with the addition!)<br /><br />We had our ADI test today, testing us on the skills we have learned in tandem with the dog. We both did great......except for one BLARING error on my part. Mr. Slow Mo was with us today(<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Tippy</span>, for those who haven't been reading daily) and at one point a little girl asked if she could pet the dog. I remembered what Brian said to do, and told <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Tippy</span>, aka <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">MSM</span>, down. So, I thought he was just going down <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">veeeeerrrrry</span> slowly again and then realized that he had stopped. I got flustered and corrected <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Tippy</span>(with Brian telling me to do so.....) by tugging down on the lead. I then remembered I'm supposed to give the lead a quick "pop" up, and then a good tug down as a correction. Well, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Tippy</span> did eventually go down, and all turned out well, but, as Brian has told us it's better to have the dog in a down stay when children want to pet them because it puts them in a more submissive position and they are not able to reach their paw out for more attention,,,as <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Tippy</span> sometimes does....and scratch the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">child's</span> face. Chalk it up to "Lesson 5,349, learned"....at least I hope so!<br /><br />Tonight is our "Meet and Greet". This is when we meet the dog's "Weekend Puppy Raiser" and any one else we may have put on the list. I don't expect many, if any, of the people on my list since they are now doing it on a weekday evening and most of my "people" live near me, 2 hours away, or further. But, I am looking forward to meeting the puppy raiser. In any case, it should be interesting!<br /><br />Now......today is Alli's birthday. She is turning 4. I bought a card yesterday with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Tippy's</span> help. I just told him it was for the other woman......he was fine with that. I was sitting in the main lobby at the end of a delicious lunch when Sherrie Forest walked up to me and said, "Today is Alli's birthday". I said I knew and told her about the card. She then said to me, "Do you know why I know?" and I said no. Sherrie told me that Elizabeth, Alli's new "mom", had called and made a donation in my and Alli's name in honer or Al's birthday. Okay, Okay, I cried...... Does the kindness and compassion of this couple never end? I cannot tell you how awesome I felt. I just continue to be thankful that Elizabeth and Andy were in Alli's life and could love her as much as I do.....and not forget that! Truly faith in our fellow man must be possible when you are blessed to know and have a connection with individuals like Elizabeth and Andy. Alli is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">soooo</span> special, and definitely deserves to be in a home such as theirs surrounded by their love........ OH, MY, GOD, TRULY SPECIAL PEOPLE!<br /><br />There is nothing more to be said.........<br /></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-15594789928428514562012-02-21T20:25:00.000-05:002012-02-21T21:42:44.794-05:00What A Day!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYC-FfkQHnAW0FjXSGCoLeAKK5AfgKXCNItZhyphenhyphengvRe2sIxF7f0l4TL1kAJEHEilXvhTPChwZPNA6O975m_yqB2fd2NP4ToGVWXxQTcJXVNSH-E2tDklnTJIdAPYa0bomAn4oyFVmrq6dbk/s1600/IMGP2047-1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYC-FfkQHnAW0FjXSGCoLeAKK5AfgKXCNItZhyphenhyphengvRe2sIxF7f0l4TL1kAJEHEilXvhTPChwZPNA6O975m_yqB2fd2NP4ToGVWXxQTcJXVNSH-E2tDklnTJIdAPYa0bomAn4oyFVmrq6dbk/s320/IMGP2047-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711765345219886050" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Once again I have been entrusted with a "stunner"! He's handsome, has a wonderful heart, and shows you just what unconditional love is.......</span> <span style="font-size:130%;">How blessed am I to have received two amazing, awesome gifts...... I felt my life change the first time, change for the better. Not that there was anything wrong before, just beginning to feel my freedom slip away a bit, not comfortable being out and about on my own. Alli changed all that, and I've missed that sense of strength she gave me. Now, with Tippy, I realize just how much that means to me. I'm not saying I took Alli for granted, quite the contrary. I probably told her hourly how special she was, and how lucky I was to have her in my life. I don't even think I understood the depth of that strength until I began to feel uplifted once again. I again feel like I can speak up for myself, and if necessary, for others.<br /><br />Enough of the melancholy, we had a busy day today. We reviewed some of the skills from the past few days. "Fetch", "Fetch phone", "Find phone", and the one that has driven me crazy, "Fridge". Since kind of "bombing" yesterday I ran it over and over in my head. I know I needed to set Tippy up for success. I mean really, if I'm not giving him the opportunity to perform the behavior correctly then whose fault is it. MINE!! And, when you have a dog that really wants to perform well, and do everything "right", then you have to help him achieve it so when you're out and about he has the confidence to "go for it". So, when it came to our turn....I chimed right in on this one and wanted to go first.....to get it over with.....and because I also needed to perform correctly for MY confidence. Wouldn't you know, the first time the door wasn't open far enough so Tippy backed out before getting hit.....so would I! But, here's the difference between Tippy and Richie. Tippy thinks to himself, "something's coming at me I better get out of the way". Richie thinks, "go ahead, make my day", (sorry Clint, I couldn't resist!), in other words Richie wouldn't worry about the door, just the job at hand. Tippy was so concerned about getting it right that as soon as the door opened, he released the rope and went for the dumbbell on the fridge shelf. Here comes the door! And, wouldn't you also know, the next couple times the rope came off the door because Tippy grabs it so high that it comes unhooked. I'm sure you've heard of "Third time's a charm", well, Tippy thought it was "Fourth time's a charm"!! Needless to say we did it just about perfect, so he was rewarded with a "special" treat and we ended on a positive note.<br /><br />Fetching the phone went off pretty much without a hitch, and finding the phone was even better. When "finding" the phone Brian put the black phone on the black seat of a Big Wheel. We stood with our back to the big wheel and the dogs in front of us and told them to "Find the phone". Tippy is constantly lifting his nose to the air and catching some sort of scent, as well as being able to find every piece of dropped kibble on the floor of the training room. In other words, he's got a great "shnozz"(?)! I really wasn't surprised that Tippy had no trouble finding the phone. He also did well with "nudge door". When the door was wide open, he took the chance to stick his nose behind it to begin nudging it closed. Brian said that is said a lot for how Tippy trusts me that he was willing to take a chance. <br /><br />Brian told us that we have gone so quickly through the material, and the dogs have done so well that he'll be letting us go after lunch on Thursday! I think it's a testament to how quickly Andy has caught on to the routine, and working with a dog as your partner. It's really been fun working with him.....we've had ample time to sit and talk here at the house. I'll say it again, he's a very nice young man, and truly a gentleman. We had nearly 1.5 hours for lunch before heading out to Stop and Shop again.<br /><br />When we got to S&S, Brian said that he just had to watch for a few things on our part, having to do with how we worked with the dog, and we could pretty much go anywhere in the store, but it would be better to observe if we went together. The dogs did "under" at one of the bakery tables, something they both do quite well. Then Andy said he needed to get some juice so we meandered over to that isle. While all this is going on, we should be talking to the dogs, praising and encouraging them along the way. I joke that my problem is that I probably talk too much to the dog, but I'm not sure there is a "too" much. Anyone who knows me knows that I've never had a problem when it comes to talking! My dad used to joke that that's why my children spoke clear words and short sentences at such a young age. After the juice, I wanted to head down the card isle. Tomorrow is Alli's 4th birthday and, yes, I wanted to get a card I could send to her(aka Elizabeth). Jack and Barbara were back again today to take more "action" shots, as well as our class photo. Right, our BIG class of two! They followed us through S&S taking pics here and there.<br /><br />We returned back to NEADS and we were done for the day. Andy and I decided to let the dogs play together again and we were not disappointed! How laughter makes the world a brighter place! While we were there, I got a call from the President of my local Rotary,(Essex, CT). I was stunned to hear that it was voted on and approved that they would donate $8,500.00 for Tippy! Now, I was told that although the funds would be needed for Tippy, I was not responsible for doing any fundraising personall. Any monies that came in in our name would go toward Tippy, and other donations as well could also help to defray the cost. NEADS usually asks the client to help raise $9,500 toward their dog. I know that a donation came in from someone who also donated for Alli, but now this is just AMAZING!!!! He asked that I help with some publicity for the club and it's donation, in the form of a story in our newspaper, and also that they might like to have Tippy and me come speak to them as a group. I absolutely said certainly!! How kind and generous of them to help me with Tippy! Something I will always be greatful for.<br /><br />THEN.....I got a call from a gal with a media group who has spoken with me before, and arranged for Alli and me to meet with a reporter for a CT tv station concerning a bill to ban "STEP THERAPY" in CT. This time she asked if I would be willing to speak with another reporter who is doing a story on "tiers" with regards to insurance companies and how they classify drugs. <br /><br />I will speak more on this tomorrow.....I'm in an awful lot of pain tonight and we have our ADI (Assistance Dogs International) test tomorrow. Wish us luck, although I think Andy is a "shoe-in" to succeed! I'm pretty confident that Tippy and I will perform well, too.......but I need to be able to get my words out, and not get mixed up. I think that this pain will still be around tomorrow, so we'll see if I can shut it out until we're done..... I hope......<br /><br />Peace,<br />Wendy<br /></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-8364736829989939602012-02-20T20:23:00.000-05:002012-02-20T21:28:21.654-05:00I HAVE A HORSE FOR A SERVICE DOG!!!<span style="font-size:130%;">I'll get to that eventually........!! No picture tonight. Once again, it would be of a sleeping <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Tippy</span>. So this morning the photographers were there to take our pics for our ID cards, and also for some "action" shots. Now I know some of you are not familiar with the comings and goings of a service dog. You hear "action" and picture some rollicking and frolicking.....WRONG!!!! Especially if your service dog is named <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">TIPPY</span>! I think the better phrase would be shots of service dogs working. Now I make comments about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Tippy</span> being slow and deliberate. That's not a bad thing, not by any stretch of the imagination! It's the perfect pace for me now. I relish the thought he puts into every motion, every moment. I adore the look he gives me as he follows the command...."am I doing it right, huh, huh?". I just get a kick out of it. Sometimes it's really hard not to chuckle, especially when he's told, "down". I LOVE IT, I LOVE HIM!!!!!<br /><br />Today we worked on "Fridge". Ideally and eventually that one command will be the culmination of a series of commands. We need to keep practicing it since Brian said it will be one of the first commands they forget if not used/practiced. It begins with the command "fridge" at which point the dog grabs the rope hanging from the refrigerator door and tugs. Next, when the door is open far enough the command "fetch" is given.<br />The dog lets go of the rope and goes to the fridge shelf to retrieve the item which is always in the same place. For the sake of practice, an orange "dumbbell" was used. The dog picks of the item with their mouth and you tell them "hold". Next you tell the dog "nudge" and they go to the outside of the door and nudge it until it is closed all the way. You can tell them to "hold" again and they bring the item to you at which point you say "give" when you have a hold on it. As soon as you take the dumbbell you say "yes!" to let them know they have done it correctly and a "special" treat is used as the reward. I'm sure that if I was better at setting it up for success we would not have had to repeat it as many times as we did! I needed to have my self positioned properly so that when <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Tippy</span> tugged on the rope the fridge would open up enough to give him the chance to "fetch" before the door began to close on him..... I'm also having a little trouble with my word retrieval. I'm sure it is in part due to my age, alas yes, but also due to my "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">neuro</span>-whatever"! I actually drew a blank on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Tippy's</span> name the other day in training! YIKES!!<br /><br />After we were done with the "fridge" debacle.....Brian gave us a break and then we headed off to the mall. We needed to get some lunch at the food court so that we could demonstrate that we could have the dog's "under" or beside and they would wait patiently while we ate. No problem. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">YAY</span>! Next we walked a little bit in the mall before Brian had us go into a store to walk around. Now, both Andy and I have large dogs so you can imagine what went through my head as I looked into the small shop crowded with racks of clothes and shelves with trinkets! Both <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Tippy</span> and Richie, however, maneuvered the maze just fine and we were out without any mishaps..... especially from the "tail zone". One wag of the tail in the wrong direction in the wrong store can spell certain embarrassment, and financial ruin. Thankfully they neither wagged in the wrong direction, nor was it the wrong store....interject HEAVY SIGH here!!!<br /><br />We next took turns going into a children's play area with our dogs and had them in a "sit/stay". Richie did great, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Tippy</span> also did very well but I need to remember to use "watch me" more instead of "leave it". <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Tippy</span> was just a little unsure of the children moving around and by saying "leave it" at times, I was reinforcing the idea that it was something undesirable. Other than that, it was an extremely positive experience for both handler and dog.<br /><br />Okay.....now to the "horse" thing. This afternoon we had went through our dog's health file/record. Dan talked to us about their immunizations, Date of birth, microchip information and weight. What to look for when checking out how your dog looks regarding his weight. <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">***Just an aside, Andy found out that Richie was born the day before he was "blown up" in Afghanistan. Fate? I think so. I think Richie was meant for Andy all along. I think in the grand scheme of things they are destined to do "good" for others. They certainly belong with each other.......their bond is almost palpable. It's kind of interesting, don't you think????</span> When Brian called to tell me about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Tippy</span> he said that her was about 78 lbs. We were talking yesterday and he said that he could see <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Tippy</span> at as much as 81-83 lbs., but mentioned that he had gotten up to 85 at one point and it was obvious that he was overweight. Brian also mentioned that he could tell that both dogs had lost weight while they were at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">NEADS</span>, before and during our training, Richie a bit more than <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Tippy</span>. Andy said that he was told that Richie was about 70 lbs. when he came for training. He weighed in today at, I think, 67.6 lbs. He was in the kennel longer than <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Tippy</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Tippy</span> being here just 11 days prior to training. (they were in the prison prior to that) <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Tippy</span> was weighed today, and, he weighed in at...........82.6 lbs!! Oh my gosh!!!!! I really didn't think there would be that much of a difference. Richie does look a bit leaner, with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Tippy</span> looking quite solid. But, they are pretty close to the same height so I figured maybe an 8-10 lb. difference. Wow! Put that together with the idea that Brian told us both dogs like to check out the garbage, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Tippy</span> more so, and that means very careful monitoring of what goes in. I've been very good in the past, switching to carrots when Alli proved that she could pack on the pounds. I think it's all, as Andy said, pretty much common sense. There's no need for the dogs to have "people" food other than some veggies and maybe some fruit here or there. They are supposed to have 1/8 of a cup of veggies every day anyway.<br /><br />I guess it's time to put the horse in the stable for the night and I'll be turning out the light in the bunkhouse as well......<br /><br />Peace,<br />Wendy <br /></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1317983201092229831.post-56402746057892529902012-02-19T19:41:00.000-05:002012-02-19T20:11:36.719-05:00Amazing Grace......<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqvIMI1GDpqSS1dCKj3oW6rLn23cJvslnOl6QLYYhIS42TAjGuJkt7O7wcbxes8sPOSdi-IfyQCPDMtzuVdYlukyyCDTUvv8J2IBCGim4wnsbtOj_YoSAxe_lnuTHZ-qzJ_VKBUcw0SyC0/s1600/IMG_0147.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqvIMI1GDpqSS1dCKj3oW6rLn23cJvslnOl6QLYYhIS42TAjGuJkt7O7wcbxes8sPOSdi-IfyQCPDMtzuVdYlukyyCDTUvv8J2IBCGim4wnsbtOj_YoSAxe_lnuTHZ-qzJ_VKBUcw0SyC0/s320/IMG_0147.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711011575059733570" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">Tonight will be just a brief post. The internet connection keeps going. That's why NEADS is in the running to win a technical make-over. Hopefully I can get through this quick note. Eventually I'll get a good picture of him NOT sleeping.....but right now I don't think of the camera until I'm going to bed and have time to get my wits about me! The way it is, this is from my cell and obviously doesn't do Tippy justice!<br /><br />Today Tippy came to church. I spoke to the congregation last week to remind them that this is just like when Alli came home. For the time being I'm not releasing Tippy with "Say Hello" when someone asks to pet him. Sometimes I say that he's working, and other times I have him in a sit/stay and he watches me while someone pets him.<br />He did quite well, and while he doesn't snore as loud as Alli does, he tends to moan and groan in his sleep I'm not sure which is worse....! Needless to say he did a great job when I told him "through". That's when he goes ahead of me, turns around, and sits in front of me looking up at me for the next command. After I had him sitting in front of me,(I had positioned myself so that when he came around he would be sitting with his back towards the entry into the pew. Next I told him "back". He stood, took one step back, and sat. I repeated this until he was far enough into the pew that there was enough room for me to come sit next to him and still have room if anyone else wanted to sit there. He lay there quietly....he was quiet because he was out cold sleeping....until the end of the service. He then looked up at me and waited while I got myself together and was then ready to leave. He really did quite well considering this was his first time to church with me! I feel like a proud "Mama", collecting the comments of praise for my "little one"....okay, my BIG one!<br /><br />Tomorrow's a new day, and a new week! It's hard to believe that in just 5 short days we will be leaving NEADS as an official team. Today felt like we'd been together forever.....Tippy fell right into step with me, noticing when my pace changed and changing his right along with me......<br /><br />I SOOOOOOO LOVE THIS PUP! I think we're going to make a great team. I can't wait for him to meet Alli! Maybe this spring or summer. Tippy will be meeting Lucky and Maggie on Friday. Ellen is about halfway between NEADS and my house so it will be a nice break from the driving, and I'm sure a great visit!!!<br /><br />The internet is still connecting and disconnecting so the very next time it says it's clear, I'm hitting "Publish Post"!!!! I'm not even checking for any typos or spelling errors.....SORRY!!!!<br /><br />Peace,<br />Wendy and Tippy<br /></span>wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01727010819632306601noreply@blogger.com1