Christie and Sydney

Teamed Spring, 2004

“What can I say about Sydney? She’s such a joy and treasure! More than that, EVERYONE loves her! She’s a social butterfly and a hard worker for me. Having her with me has made both household chores and meeting people so much fun! Several years ago I was in a motorcycle accident. Though it was a tragedy that left me in a wheelchair, I have always been able to grab life and enjoy it thoroughly. Five years ago a “dream come true” was laid out before me. I was offered a chance to join a prosthetic research program here in San Diego. My employers offered to move both my position and me out here to allow me the potential to walk again. Though it meant leaving an office I loved and friends I cherished, I knew it was time to “go west!” It all seemed so perfect. What little I knew about real life! I had lived in D.C. for nearly 10 years and had always shared a house with a few other women. That living situation was beneficial socially and also for help with many household tasks. I had no idea the full impact this move would have on me in those areas. Living alone is an entirely different ball game. That’s where Sydney has made such a difference. She helps me get my groceries in from the car, she gets the phone for me (and not always for an emergency), and retrieves my chair when it rolls out of reach. What a comfort to know that I’m not alone to take care of these things! Moreover, she’s even opened a few doors (figuratively, in addition to literally) for me to get to know people better, both at work and at play. No one can resist Sydney’s charm, even where I work at the FBI, which shelters some amazingly aloof individuals. Often I need these folks to be open and communicative. It’s amazing how this little girl has softened NOT A FEW grizzly special agents. In many cases, I’m getting much better cooperation since Sydney arrived on the scene. Outside work, I love going out to places to exercise her and show her off! People are so open and free when a sweet dog is around! She has eased my fears about meeting new people and given me new confidence to “get out there” and enjoy life. I know I am a better person for having her and I am so grateful to Paws’itive Teams for affording me this opportunity. I may not always know what tomorrow holds for me but I know the days will be sweeter because Sydney is here to share them with me.” Christie March, 2004