TIP

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, and hold the camera, all at the same time!  I guess that explains the broken hand...!  **(Oh, and ignore the "awesome" lawn and landscape, enough said)

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.

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"!!!!

"PHEW.......!!"

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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......

Peace,
Wendy www.neads.org

"......Like a Hamster on a Wheel........"

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!

This is Tippy 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 Tippy is the complete opposite. When we get to the park and other dogs are already there, "yipping" and "play" growling to let Tippy 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! Tippy 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 Tippy 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!

We have been very busy, a good busy, but very busy. On March 22, I got an e-mail from Paul Gileno(US Pain) asking if I would attend a CHAF (CT Health Advocacy Forum) as a Rep. for US Pain on Wednesday the 28th. 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 26th, 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 Cullari 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. Blumenthal, 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 meds 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 wks. 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.

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, Tippy 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 Tippy. 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 CHAF 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!

I guess I had a lot to get out......thanks for hanging in there!
Peace,
Wendy

***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.

Kennel "Naps" and "Soap Boxes"

What a week we've had! Gorgeous days and peaceful nights..... Tippy 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 Tippy....in all of his excitability....usually falls asleep within just a couple of minutes. He has NO problem staying in the kennel. As you can see, I've interrupted his nap by finishing his time sooner than he'd like! I usually follow it with play time. Tippy 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! Tippy 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 Tippy 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 Tippy, 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.

I never got around to mentioning our trip to testify in Hartford on the 15th. 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 IVIG(immunoglobulin G, IGg) 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 IVIG, 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 HB 5486 would mean for me and many, many others who require "Upper Tier" medications. An "Upper Tier" drug is usually injectable, 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 "Formulary" the drug for my IVIG, Gamunex, 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 HB 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........

I have been on my "soap box" long enough, my best to you all, and I appreciate the time you take to read it.

Peace,
Wendy

Last Day of Winter......?

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. 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. 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...........

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 and 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!

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.

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.....

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2114840/How-Mr-Gibbs-dog-keeps-keeps-Alida-Knobloch-3-alive-strapping-oxygen-tank-back.html

Where Do I Begin?!?!?!?!?!!!

I think it's necessary for me to jump around, and not
follow any specific, chronological order....I think you'll see why.

I have 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 to me and introduced us. 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!

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, 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.........

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 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 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). 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.

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.

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!

Getting Experience? Check!!!

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.**(the camera is obviously faulty because he avoids the open space and goes for solid wood...go figure!) 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 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.

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!!!!!

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"?

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!!!

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.

I've run on long enough, some more big days are on the horizon,
Good Night,
Peace,
Wendy