All American Assistance Dogs came into my life after my wife’s friend had attended Race For A Soldier run 2014 and picked up a flyer. She shared it with my wife, and without me knowing, my wife sent email for an application.
I was not doing well very, since my 2005 discharge from the Army. Isolated and hardly going out into the public besides quick runs to the store or for appointments, staying in deep depression and a distance with my family members as I had a hard time enjoying anything or anyone. Working with AAAD has been a blessing as they accepted me, then provided me with tools and services that help me in everyday situations I would normally avoid. I have built good relationships and they are great mentors. Debi is amazing to work with has made it so easy for me to learn as I felt comfortable. I am honored to be working with all of them. (My service dog) has been the biggest asset to my family since she has been in my life. She is a gentle, very loyal and compassionate, she initiates contact with me by a nudge or stare. (My service dog) has helped me with my anxiety & PTSD helping to keep me grounded in uncomfortable environments that I normally would have struggled in or wouldn’t have gone to prior to having her with me. She is aware of my body language whether I am asleep or high anxiety times and she can bring me back to a more normal way of being. My kids have me more in their lives, as I am getting out all the time going into and attending school events and family outings. Having (my service dog) has given me tools for my therapy I am no longer isolated, on less medications, sleep is not as bad as it was for so long, I get along better and longer with others, bad thoughts hardly ever happen. AAAD and (my service dog) have improved mine and my life, giving me hope that things can improve with me doing my part and using the tools they have given with (my service dog) by my side I couldn’t ask for a better companion or Organization. They share so much love and support for myself and my family. Disabled Veteran (name removed for privacy)