We received our first rejection letter from Canine Companions for Independence out of Delaware, Ohio. I was devastated. Claudia was amazing.. she said that we'll see what they say in Georgia (Canine Assistants), and we will.
Last night we were talking together while I was helping her get ready for bed. She loves to dream about what she is going to be when she grows up. Maybe a doctor, a lawyer or a firefighter, she's not quite sure. I was mentioning to her that perhaps she would be a good psychologist because she is so insightful and perceptive. She said that her therapy dog could work well helping people too. Yes, I replied, and that people would be inspired by all of her hard work and perseverance. She wanted to know what inspire meant!
It's you babe! You inspire me every day.
And today was one of those tough days when having a disability just sucks, and I needed inspiration.
We had an average to stinky IEP meeting. Nothing major, just not usually productive or helpful. No one commenting on how wonderful and clever you are.. more of the I can't do that, I'm too busy, we don't have that and that would be too much to ask of the school district.
But the icing on the cake for me was the call that I received an hour later about you being too "sick" to be in school. No fever, no running nose, no bodily fluids, just that "the life is out of your eyes" and that you were not yourself. Apparently you ran into too many chairs in your classroom.
Against my better judgement, I took you home today. Not your choice I know, I heard the cries. I see your frustration, isolation and struggle. I get it.
I know why that dog would be so nice to have by your side. Someone that doesn't pass judgement on you because you use wheels. A dog wouldn't underestimate your abilities or say that you couldn't play. A dog could love you unconditionally and constantly be there for you. Believe me, I get it, I'm on your side. Love you Claudia.
Claudia meeting Emily and her service dog Stryde
(plus the sisters Molly and Eloise)
7 comments:
Love you Beth! You are such an awesome mom. I think you are pretty inspiring too.
Oh, Beth, I get it, too. I wish I were there...I NEED to hug you and Claudia...ok, probably I just need Claudia to hug me. Cause, if she is like my Benjamin, her hugs are simply the best...full of love! Praying a special prayer for you and that sweet girl today!
I love you, Beth and your wonderful family. I think you are a great mom for your children and I'm so proud of you. I will pray for you. A big hug, Elvira
Beth,
What can we do to get Claudia this dog? What are the costs associated with this, Scott and I want to help out? Also, what are the logistics/hoops and can we help with that? We are there for you guys, whatever you need.
Jess
Beth,
As everyone else already said so eloquently, you are an inspiration too! Also, what can we do to help get that doggie into your home? Dogs are the best. In addition to giving unconditional love and acceptance, they also great at receiving one's attention with ten-fold enthusiasm. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing a wagging tail and receiving a slobbery kiss because you earned it with a small gesture.
Good luck!
Thank you Beth for all the lessons you are giving us.
Love,
Sara
Hi Beth, I was just reading the comments to find the better word to express my feeling and the only think I can say is the Sara is totally right and I agree with her.
Thanks for the lessons and for bringing us back to reality...sometimes we need it.
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