In 2012 I was forced to resign from a teaching job that I loved, because of illness called Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome which are multi system diseases that primarily affect my brain and my heart, resulting in mobility challenges.
At times, I faint as a result of abnormal blood flow. In 2020, I got out of bed one day and immediately fainted headfirst into a vertical beam and injured myself pretty badly. My cardiologist suggested I consider getting a service dog, and that’s when I discovered COPE.
Being paired with Lina in November 2023, has already changed my life for the better.
Some of the things Lina helps me with are:
Providing assistance when I have a fainting episode by RETRIEVING my phone so I can call for help when needed.
Laying across my legs, both at home and out in public, providing DEEP PRESSURE THERAPY, to help bring blood to the area before I stand, which significantly lessens my chance of fainting.
BRACING her body for me to rest on when standing in long lineups… And of course, giving me lots of hugs, kisses and snuggles when off duty.
An intangible that I didn’t anticipate, is the confidence I feel when out in public, with her beside me.