Since 2001, I have been so lucky and so grateful to have a service dog from Canine Companions by my side. That's 24 years of independence and companionship. These dogs know over 50 commands, know how to behave in public, and are completely dedicted to loving their human.

Canine Companions provides these expertly trained service dogs to adults, children and veterans with disabilities FREE of charge, thanks to many, many volunteers and generous donors. They are celebrating their 50th year this year of breeding their own dogs. Our heroes are the volunteer puppy raisers that take these fuzzy beasts on to teach them the basics, and fill them with love, so the dogs can go on to professional training and maybe be matched with someone llike me.

I was first matched with Sajen, then Shelly, and now with Gabe. Each has been very different, but also so very special to me. My mom says becoming part of the Canine Companions family is the best thing we've ever done. She also says "it puts a positive spin on having a disability." Because of these dogs, she feels assured that I will always have love in my life.

Once a year, Canine Companions reaches out for donations through their annual DogFest. Our Region is holding theirs this coming Saturday (October 4) in Reston. Please donate if you can. Even $10 adds up. I want to help more people with disabilities get their 4 pawed helper and best friend.