Lexi and Colleen

I am so thankful to the Lord for leading me to Genesis Assistance Dogs, who has provided beautiful Lexi and all the support I could possibly need for us to become successful partners. I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2000, with the primary progressive form that led to a gradual decline in my physical abilities. At this point I use a rollator in the house and a mobility scooter out and about. I am quite busy homeschooling our youngest son and in the community as treasurer of a Broward homeschool support group and director of a high school and middle school educational coop. My energy is limited, and I often “hit the wall” as I endeavor to balance family, health and service.

When we lost our 15 year old family dog a couple years ago, I grieved her loss but knew I could not manage a puppy jumping on me (tiiimmmbbbeerrr!) or running out the door.

I prayed about seeking a service dog, but I didn’t realize how much one could help me with daily tasks until I connected with Charlie and Jen at Genesis Service Dogs. Throughout the process of placing Lexi and I together, they, along with Jeff, Amie, and the rest of the Genesis team, educated, encouraged, and supported me in a very personal way, matching Lexi’s training with my specific needs. Charlie sent more supplies than I could imagine, and Jen coordinated with Amie, Lexi’s most recent puppy raiser, to teach Lexi specific tasks according to my individual needs before I even began training. Once I began training with Lexi, Jen helped me strategize the logistics of being in public spaces with a scooter and a dog. She even ordered a fold up basket for my scooter so that I could walk with Lexi in the grocery store and still have a basket for shopping items.

Lexi came home with us only two weeks ago, but she already helps me open and close doors, brings me anything I drop, and even helps me straighten up our teenager’s floor when needed! She is learning to pull the laundry basket and turn off and on lights, as well. I can’t wait to bring her kayaking once her trust in me grows.

Lexi is a tremendous blessing in our lives, just in time for Christmas! She lights up our home with her sweet and goofy disposition and her warm snuggles when she is off the clock. A disability can be kind of isolating because strangers often feel awkward or don’t know what to say. Lexi is a wonderful companion, and she starts conversations just by her beautiful and serene presence. I am tremendously grateful to the Genesis team for their generosity and dedication which have made this possible.