The End

“It’s something unpredictable, but in the end it’s right. I hope you had the time of your life.” –Green Day, Time of Your Life

Well, this is it, my little brothers all grown up and going to college. I knew it was coming, and to be honest, I’m not nearly as devastated as I thought I’d be. After talking to the people I’ve talked to, that couldn’t live like you and I if they didn’t have this dog, I know why I’m doing it. In the beginning I was a little selfish and just wanted a dog, but now I realize this is for a greater good. Sure, I’m sad to see him go, but not nearly as bad as I thought I’d be.

After I give my service dog spiel to everyone, usually the first question is, “how can you give your dog up? It must be so hard!”. Well first off he’s not really mine, he’s still owned by CCI until he leaves to help someone. Second, if you ever see someone with a service dog, ask them what that dog means to them. It will all make sense right then and there. Knowing this dog will make someone twice as happy as he made me is all that really matters. I think really the most inspirational quote I’ve heard about these dogs comes from the mother of an autistic child who received a service dog. That quote was “This is the first friend my son has ever had”. That really meant a lot to me, and I know that’s the reason I do this. Think about it. Can you imagine what it would be like? Knowing that this dog can make a world of difference to someone is really all that matters. Most people like you and I can get up in the morning, make ourselves a bowl of cereal, shower, get dressed, and get to work or school all by ourselves in the morning. A lot of these people we’re helping can’t. That’s really amazing to know that because of my family simply raising a dog, someone might be able to live independently with little help from others.
There’s just a few messages I want to leave you all with before I end this blog based upon what this has taught me. First, no matter the disability, no matter the issue, people with any sort of disability or handicap are people too. In fact, many of them are very nice people. It’s human nature to judge, and I totally understand. When we see someone with any sort of disability we automatically judge, but I really want that to change. They’re just like us. They’re not some sort of alien or anything. We share the same interests, dreams, goals, and ideas. Second, this was really an inspirational journey for me, and it was an AMAZING experience. If you really want to do something to make a difference in our strange, bizarre world, raising a service dog is a GREAT idea. Or even making a small donation to CCI, or even just raising awareness about CCI.

I really want to thank you all for taking the time to read this. This dog really does mean the world to me and I’m glad I could share it with you! I’ve attached a slide show for Spencer, highlighting pictures and videos of him.
Thanks again everyone. I hope you stay healthy, and stay happy!

This is a link to Spencer's Video that I made.

Spencer Slide Show