Meet Team Pepa

The decision to apply for a Service Dog was a difficult one and one that took me many, many years of careful consideration to finally arrive at. I worried about not being “disabled enough” (whatever that means), and I worried that I would be denied because I tend to be extremely independent.

Now that I have PADS Pepa, I can’t imagine life being any other way. She has enriched my life in so many significant ways. One of the things that is very important to me is my independence.

Over the past couple of years, I’ve had a change in my health and my needs. Having Pepa has meant that I can maintain my health and independence with a lot more ease. Without her, I don’t know how well I’d be doing with that. She is kind and smart and attentive, and such a goofy, sweet girl who loves to go with me wherever I go and whatever I do.

She’s also extremely intelligent. She does things for me that help me conserve my energy and make sure that I’m not putting unnecessary strain on my body. I remember the first time she helped me counterbalance at work. It was the first time in a very, very long time that I wasn’t in pain from bending over and then sitting up. I absolutely cannot express how significant that was. She’s a lifesaver.

Because of her, I can participate in life in new, fun, and exciting ways. I want to say thank you to every single person who has had a hand in her journey. She is exceptional! All of you will always have a special place in our hearts.

I will forever be grateful for the impact she has had and will continue to have on my life. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Thank you! – Stephanie, PADS Client