My Canine Partner
MOTIVATED, INDEPENDENT & HAPPY
25-year-old Paul Phillips and his 2-year-old Golden Retriever Ralph live in Harpenden, Hertfordshire
My life changed in 2012 when a car crash left me paralysed from the neck down and I required 24-hour support from carers. I suffered severe depression. The hospital matron let our family Cockapoo sit on my bed so I could stroke him, and this would brighten my day. Over time, I began to do more activities. One day, at a football match, I saw someone in a wheelchair with an assistance dog. I did some research and came across the Canine Partners charity, which provides assistance dogs for disabled people and 18 months later (in 2016) I met Ralph. As soon as he saw me, he came straight over and licked my face. There was an instant connection and I knew he was the dog for me. He has already made a huge impact on my life. He presses an alarm if I need help. He picks things up, opens and closes doors, and turns lights, heaters and the TV on or off. He can also take my jacket off and remove blankets if I get too hot. Having him by my side has made me more independent, and a lot healthier. I am no longer anxious, or in and out of hospital constantly. I take him out for a long walk on my own every day. Being able to be on my own now is a big thing for me. Ralph is great fun – he makes me laugh a lot and keeps me motivated. I am about to move out of my parents’ house into a specially adapted flat to give me more independence. If I didn’t have Ralph, I would be very nervous to do it, but he gives me the confidence to know that I’ll be fine.”
To donate to Canine Partners, go to CANINEPARTNERS.ORG.UK