Editor: It is with great sadness and a broken heart that I report I had my beloved friend Kuma, my dog guide, put to sleep on June 8. She was just shy of her 13th birthday.
Kuma was the first guide dog to reside in the Bow Valley and in the last 11 years, since starting the Purina Walk for Dog Guides, we have had four other valley residents get teamed up with a dog guide – two seizure response dogs, one guide dog, one special skills dog for a person with disabilities and a dog for a child with autism.
Kuma has been my shadow for the last 11 years. I had no idea how much of an impact she would have on me and how much my life would change for the better. She gave me confidence to face a world which has not always been a kind place for me.
When I received Kuma, my health improved dramatically; the longer I had her, the better I became. She gave me a life I never thought possible. She has not only touched my life, but everybody who was fortunate to meet her, which was most of Canmore.
Kuma had that amazing ability to bring a smile to people’s faces and totally make their day. She was a clown and brought much laughter into my life.
I’m not sure how long it takes to grieve a loved one, but I do know she will forever be my angel.
I know that home for Kuma was wherever I was – by my side. She enjoyed the travelling and all the adventures that came with it as much as I did. We were a solid team.
I am the perfect example of how much a dog guide can change a person’s life. I became a whole person again, not scared to venture out anymore with my loyal gentle friend at my side.
Kuma had a very full, adventurous life and I always said if and when that time comes, I would never let her suffer. I stayed true to my promise and it was by far the hardest, selfless decision I’ve ever made.
I am going to scatter Kuma’s ashes at Quarry Lake on July 2 at 1 p.m., which would have been her 13th birthday. We are going to have a celebration of her life and if anybody that knew Kuma would like to come, you are welcome.
I figure we could have one big potluck (as Kuma will not be around to steal food). I will have a donation box for dog guides if anybody would like to make a donation to Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides.
As many of you know, I have organized the Purina Walk for Dog Guides along with Sandy and many wonderful volunteers. Now, more than ever, it is so important we carry on, as I will need another guide dog in the not so distant future.
Although we are not charged when we receive a dog guide, it costs $25,000 to raise and train each and every one.
This program has no government funding and relies on voluntary contributions, with the biggest fundraiser the Walk for Dog Guides, held in May.
Along with the normal day of the dog walk, I am looking for sponsors to support us. The Lions Club has been wonderful, but we need more help. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, or making a donation, email [email protected]. For more information, visit dogguides.com.
Wendy Everett,
Canmore
