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Accomplishments
TTOH is known for its program to match community members, as well as double and single amputee veterans returning from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, with Assistance Animals. Please read below on the most recent teams made possible by TTOH and our partners. |
Fall, 2007
Joe Keck and Service Dog "Nolls" sponsored by The Tower of Hope and BrightHeart Veterinary Centers
Veteran Joseph Keck lost his left arm in a vehicle accident in Afghanistan in July, 2006 while serving in the Army as an E-4 Specialist. Joe, age 23, is currently stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Joe intends to take Nolls with him to college, where the two will work together, regaining Joe’s independence. Nolls will assist Joe by picking up any number of articles he might drop from keys to coins to portable telephones, open doors, press automatic key pads, help pulling off clothing, and barking on command should he need assistance. And of course, the 24-hour companionship and unconditional love Nolls will provide -- well, it's hard to even put a price on that.
Pictured Above, (from left to right) Nolls and Joe Keck together with The Tower of Hope Board member, J. Stuart Jensen.
Elaine Laffan and Service Dog "Luna" sponsored by The Tower of Hope
In 2007, TTOH was able to provide multiple sclerosis patient, Elaine Laffan, of New Jersey, with a service dog after finding out that her dedicated service dog had recently passed away. This has allowed her life to continue to be full and independent.
Pictured Above, The Tower of Hope Founder and President, Cathy Carilli and The Tower of Hope Board member, Mark Filipkowski spend time with Elaine Laffan and Luna.
Sue Downes and Service Dog "Lila" sponsored by The Tower of Hope and Liz Ann Sonders
Sue, age 27, lost both of her legs below the knee, in Afghanistan on November 28, 2006, while on the front lines. She survived an IED attack on her Humvee. The explosion killed two fellow American Soldiers from her Military Police Unit. She had been in Afghanistan for 10 months at the time of the accident. Sue is married to Gabe and they have two children, six-year old Austin and eight-year old Alexis, and a Chihuahua named “Cookie.” Sue is teamed with Assistance Dog “Lila,” a yellow Lab who will serve as a walker/balance dog. Lila will provide balance for Sue when she walks, goes up and down stairs, or gets up from a sitting or fallen position. Lila will assist Sue when she removes her prosthetics and transfers to and from her wheelchair. Lila is trained to pick up dropped items, retrieve items from high places, and turn lights on and off.
Click here to read articles on Sue and Lila.
Pictured Above, Sue Downes and Lila.
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