“Our daughter Kate was 11yrs old last May and has had a challenging journey through her life to date.  Born at 24 weeks, numerous health issues emerged immediately and she has been tackling them ever since….  

Kate began primary school in a 6-point walking frame and wheelchair for some activities.  She is now fully verbal after years of hard work and can walk independently for short distances. But her balance is strongly compromised,  she has very poor vision in one eye and cognitively is challenged by relatively simple tasks.

Kate's journey with Nasha really is a true testament of the system that Dogs for the Disabled have and how well it works. Upon Kate meeting Nasha for the first time I could see her eyes brighten and her warm engaging hug ready for Nasha as she approached her. Nasha and "US" completed our first week together in Cork in December 2022 and Kate and our lives have been changed for the best in ways I cannot describe adequately. Kate is a very shy timid girl who can be very introverted around her peers or adults in unfamiliar settings.  Kate approached Nasha with a soft gentile rub on her forehead and as Nasha pushed her head upwards to acknowledge the kind affection I could see the bond was already in the making.

Kate and Nasha now walk to school together.  We park 5 mins from the school and walk to the entrance, each day practicing our commands and road safety but also creating time elsewhere wasted in traffic or the nonsense of the modern world.  Independence and bonding time for us all.

Before Nasha, Kate would constantly be holding our hands when walking in publc with many stumbles and moments not for the faint hearted.  Nasha now brings an air of calm, structure, patience and independence when Kate is in public.  Nasha holds her pace, checks on Kate with each stumble and doesnt even flinch when her toes get stepped on by an apologetic Kate.

Nasha has brought people to Kate in school and social settings.  The intrigue and awe of such a beauitful dog and her discipline amazes young and old alike.  But their partnership works so well aided by the odd sneaky reward.  As Kate introduces Nasha to friends and strangers with each conversation, I can see her confidence grow, her voice a little less meek and her smile beaming.  

Nasha has been a wonderful addition for Kate and we try each week to introduce new places and challenges for them both.  Recently Nasha and Kate navigated Dundrum Town Centre a hugely crowded shopping centre where the partnership glided through crowds, lifts and stairs effortlessly as well as cafes and restaurants.

Nasha has not burdened us with extra tasks or work, she has enhanced all our lives, she even helps with bed time.  At bed time Nasha follows Kate and her brother upstairs and stays in her room under her bed until she is asleep and, just like the adults in the house, slips down stairs afterwards for a treat before her own bedtime.  

Nasha has of course two personalities and is well able to express both.  She loves her forest walks but her favourite place is a 4K walk/run along the Wicklow coast line along the beach followed by a fresh water swim.  She has brought smiles, laughter, fun and independence to our home as well as a beautiful calmness.  Nasha is the piece of the family jigsaw we didnt realise was missing but she has fitted in seamlessly as if she was always meant to be here.

We cannot thank enough those who raised her and cared for her from birth right up until she came home with us.  She will always have a home and a space in all our hearts.  She is the buddy and companion Kate needed at the right time in her life and I believe both she and Nasha will grow stronger together as each week goes by.  

 Thank you everyone”

 - Will (Kate’s Dad)