Dogs of Oz: Southport student’s life transformed by service dog
A SOUTHPORT student’s golden retriever has helped her achieve dreams she never thought possible after being diagnosed with a debilitating disease at just 14-years-old. Read all about their heartwarming story.
Gold Coast
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ERIN Condrin and her furry companion Lacey are “more than just friends”.
The 20-year-old and her assistance dog met in 2015 and together have graduated high school, completed a bachelors degree and now studying a Master of Speech Pathology at Griffith University.
“She has been right by my side and gone to every class with me,” Ms Condrin said.
“Lacey has done a lot of study but is also very helpful with everyday tasks.
“For example, she picks things up for me, opens and closes doors, takes off my socks, unloads a front loader washer and dryer, puts clothes in a basket, and passes me the pegs when I am hanging up the washing.”
Ms Condrin was diagnosed with classical type Ehler Danlos Syndrome at the age of 14, which means she now requires a wheelchair.
The Southport student said her diagnosis was a “big adjustment” but the eight-year-old Golden Retriever cross Labrador helped her achieve her dreams, which many people thought would be impossible.
“She has given me a lot of independence, confidence and is helping me to become a paediatric speech pathologist in the future,” she said.
“Lacey has been a great physical help but also has provided great emotional support.
“I just want other young people to have this opportunity too.”
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Brisbane-based charity Canine Helpers has gifted more than 250 assistance and service dogs to Queenslanders in need.
The dogs, who are often former show dogs or rescues, are trained by the organisation to help detect seizures, changes in blood glucose levels or provide physical aid to the disabled.
Head trainer Andrew Holmes said they originally found Lacey for sale on Gumtree and after some intensive training was the “perfect match” for Erin.
“We are so glad they have found each other and I bet now they will be friends for life,” he said.
“But to continue our work we are in desperate need of donations.”
Originally published as Dogs of Oz: Southport student’s life transformed by service dog
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