Sponsored Dog Walk |
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Sonya J. Miller-Smith |
On Sunday 8th May, approximately 60 people and 35 dogs joined the practice staff in a sponsored dog walk, to raise funds for Giles. Giles, a 2 year old black labrador, was adopted by the practice in November 2004, with the aim of raising the £5,000 needed by Dogs for the Disabled, to train and pair him with a disabled person.
We set off from Jail Lane, at 2 o'clock in bright sunshine, and despite the all-too-frequent stiles, everyone really enjoyed the 7 mile walk through Downe and Cudham. A pit-stop at The Lodge Kennels for choc-ices and lollies for the 2-legged participants, and water, treats and a rossette for our 4-legged friends, was a welcome break from the heat........ but......... sadly, we had spoken too soon,...as the last 3/4 mile brought sudden and unexpected torrential rain and hail stones. However, everyone who had started the walk made it back, undeterred, and to them, I would like to offer my sincere thanks.
Photos of the walk can be seen by clicking here.
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Prior to the walk, we had raised nearly £2,200 from the collection tin in reception and a slave auction, held at the Blacksmith's Arms, Cudham in March. We had hoped to raise a further £1,000 from the walk, and so were amazed and delighted when the total from the day came to £3,310.05. This impressive sum meant that not only had we raised sufficient for Giles to complete his training, but with the additional £500 we were able to purchase a second puppy for Dogs for the Disabled. Our new dog is Scout, a rather handsome, 5 month old Golden Retriever, who should complete his training in late 2006. As all of the 2- and 4-legged participants enjoyed the walk so much, we are hoping to repeat it in Spring '06, and welcome all interest. |
STOP PRESS NEWS!
Giles completed his training this summer and we are proud to say that he passed his final exams with flying colours. In June, he was partnered with Sandra, and has gone to live with her in Dorset. Sandra was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 8 years ago, at the age of 39, and has been in a wheelchair permanently for the past 4 years. Sandra said, "I was married to an incredibly supportive husband who was also a vicar and my full time carer. Sadly he was killed last year in a motorcycle accident and my three grown up children suggested I apply to Dogs for the Disabled, because we have always had our own dogs. Our German Shepherd and Staffie both died a few months before my husband, Jim, did. They were concerned that with all three of them going on to lead their own lives I would be very much alone. I wrote to Dogs for the Disabled and they replied saying I was on the waiting list. That was in June 2004. After moving house, I had a phone call from Jo at Dogs for the Disabled, asking if she could come and assess me for a dog."
"Jo came out to visit me with Giles and I was then apparently labeled a priority! Then, on my birthday, I had a phone call from Jo saying the match that had been planned for Giles hadn't worked out, and would I like to have him! Well, you can imagine my delight - it was the best birthday present in the world!"
"Giles and I then began our partnership. It has been one of learning and patience on both sides, but most of all lots of fun! He helps me in lots of ways, but I think the way he immediately picks up ANYTHING I drop is by far the most useful, as bending down in my wheelchair is not easy as my balance is so bad".
Giles is very eager to please and obviously loves his games. He has a green rubber toy that he adores, that is extra special because it floats! As you can imagine he loves swimming and frequently makes friends in the river. The last friend was a giant schnauzer who he shared his toy with. He seems to have a wonderful sense of humour and delights in making me laugh!"
Further Information
Dogs for the Disabled
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