New Recipient Stories
Leanne Pruett and Layla

My name is Leanne Pruett. I am 13 years old [in 2009] and I was born with Spina Bifida. I live with my Mom and my sister Amanda who is 15. I use a manual wheelchair and walk with crutches. I would like to walk more because people see me differently, but walking uses my hands so I can't do things for myself when I walk.

I will be in the eighth grade next year and I want to walk at school. Having a dog to carry things for me would make it so I will be independent just like when I wheel. I am mature and know a dog is a lot of work. I am ready to do whatever I need to get an assistance dog.

NLMAD is training a dog for me to pull my wheelchair, pick up dropped items, get the phone, and be my best friend! The dog chosen is a yellow lab who is very smart.

I love Labs and I was given the opportunity to name the dog chosen for me because she was rescued from a shelter and her name was unknown. I first named her Lola Bell in honor of my grandmother who was an amazing lady! Then when I got to know her better, I changed her name a little bit, because Layla seemed to fit her better.

I need help with fundraising to pay for the rescue and training of Layla. PLEASE send donations to NLMAD. Thank You!

Leanne and Layla were treated to a barbecue cookout party in April 2009. Here's Leanne with Cookie.	Leanne in green chair in left front, Layla on right. Karen, Lindsey, and others in the welcoming party.
	Karen, Leanne, Layla, Mark with JimanI, and Cookie in the bicycle Cookie Box with Dr. Jim Taylor