Success Stories
Marianne Principe and Journey

Hi, I'm Marianne Principe and I will be the fortunate recipient of Journey, a 2 year old golden, who will help me with my new life.

 In February 2004, at age 52, my old life ended with a viral infection in my right inner ear that substantially damaged the nerve that controls body balance (vestibular neuronitis), leaving me with constant vertigo.

 It is not a visible handicap unless you see me try to walk, and then you can say, "Yes, she really is a dizzy blonde!"

 My assistance dog will be my slow, stabilizing support while walking, and I will feel safer having him sitting by my side when I need to rest and regain my energy. He will be able to carry objects in a dog backpack and help me manage doors. He will assist me up and down inclines, like going to the mailbox at the bottom of our steeply sloping driveway. He can fetch and carry objects around the house to help me conserve energy.

I look forward to regaining my lost independence and again be able to ride Chapel Hill's handicapped van to the library, park, bank, stores, and visit friends and doctors' offices with the help of my dog chosen for me. My husband and friends know how much I long to be independent again. My dog and I will share work, play, and companionship that will make both our live full of purpose and love.

 Part of my responsibility as a recipient is to help raise funds to help pay for my chosen dog's extensive training. Please send a donation and help us become a partnership. Many thanks from both of us!