Thank you to my fellow Ambassadog Kent for the introduction and for onboarding me with the ceremonial frisbee toss last week. My name is G and I currently guide BVA member Arsenio. My dad, as I refer to him, served in the US Army earning the rank of staff sergeant serving tours in Germany and Korea. When his military career ended, he went on to become an X-ray Technician and had an amazing 25-year career at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Hospital in New York City. Also, during that time, he was blessed with three daughters, including twins! 

During the 25th year in his career, Dad’s vision became spotty and blurry, and in 2015 he lost his central vision. After visiting multiple doctors and specialists he was finally diagnosed with Liebers Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON). Dad had to retire early and as you can imagine, this rare condition was a devastating diagnosis. 

Maintaining his independence was a priority and he reached out to Southeastern Guide Dogs and was introduced to me, his four-legged furry friend. Now, seven years later, I am still by his side guiding him through his daily life and providing him with the opportunity to adjust to life after sight loss. I am honored to serve as his guide and companion. I look forward to sharing more of our journey together throughout April. 

If you are a BVA member and interested in having your dog featured in the Ambassadog Scoop Series, please send a message via email with your contact information, picture, and a brief introduction of your dog to bva@bva.org. I can’t wait for you to join the pack!