The 19th of September 2003 was the best day of my life. It's the day that I met my beloved guide dog Holly for the first time and it’s a day that I will cherish and remember forever. This is when my independence started and I haven't looked back since. 

Being a Guide Dog Owner is the best and proudest feeling ever in the world. When I initially applied for a Guide Dog, it felt extremely daunting, especially being away from home, but the fantastic staff and my Guide Dog Mobility Instructor, Rhea Eswer, made me feel so at ease. The welcoming atmosphere at the Centre in Cork makes it feel like a home away from home.  In the end, I didn’t want to leave.  I actually cried when my training was over and had to head back home. I’d made so many everlasting friends during my training and I still treasure them to this day.

To begin with, I was extremely nervous! I had never walked with a dog before and therefore didn’t feel able to trust a dog’s judgement for safe mobility and guidance. I was used to getting around by relying on someone else as a sighted guide. It was hard for me to feel I could trust a dog to safely guide me around.  Although learning to trust Holly was difficult in the beginning, I knew it was very important that I did if I wanted her to work as well as she could.

One of my biggest fears during training was that I wouldn’t be able to confidently groom her.  But, I'm pleased to say that I mastered it thanks to the fantastic assistance of the Kennel Staff. I get daily compliments on how beautiful Holly looks which is just lovely. I was also afraid that I wouldn’t have the authority in my vocal commands for a Guide Dog to respect and listen to me. The Class is hard work with all the verbal commands to memorise, but they come in time, as does your confidence in giving instructions.  Looking back now, I can see why the Residential Training Class runs for three weeks. Not only do you need time to memorise everything, you also need time to bond with your dog before you conclude your training.

My Class Training days are in fact, some of the best days of my life. Nothing was or is too much for the Staff at Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. They truly are amazing and I cannot praise them enough for the wonderful service, support and assistance they so generously provide to their clients. It’s also very reassuring to know that the Staff are always at the end of a phone with advice and support if assistance is required. I would like to sincerely thank the team at Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind for matching me with this most wonderful dog and for providing me with the best life I’ve ever had.  I’m eternally appreciative - Holly and I are a match made in heaven!

Learning to work with Holly transformed my life. Words can hardly describe what she means to me. She is more than just a fantastic Guide Dog, she is my best friend. She has enabled me to be confidently independent and travel safely. She’s made an incredible impact, enriching my life in ways I cannot even describe. Today, I enjoy my freedom and independence and am unbelievably happy because of it! I never thought it was possible. Not only have I gained a fantastic Guide Dog in Holly, she is also the most wonderful, faithful companion.  I truly love, cherish and value her from the bottom of my heart!