There are stories galore about people who rescue dogs. But few are told of canines that liberate humans from their lives of hopelessness and depression.
However, Kay Ralston's tale of how Jack, her 5-year-old standard poodle, transformed her existence into a life filled with purpose and joy is one such story.
"Before I got Jack, I wouldn't leave the house. I wouldn't do anything, because I was very depressed and suicidal," said Ralston, 47, a Navy veteran who was diagnosed with severe post-traumatic stress syndrome.
Thanks to Pam and Mike Halley, a couple who train service dogs for veterans with invisible disabilities, that bleak period in her life is now a memory. Ralston was paired with Jack through the couple's nonprofit program, K-9s for Veterans a little more than a year ago.
Although they may receive financial help from the Department of Veterans Affairs, Mike said he and his wife "just know we need money to keep this thing going,"
For information, call (813) 503-8861 or visit www.mikehalley.com.
Joyce McKenzie
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