I got the call Thursday, telling me that I was getting a service dog. I am ecstatic! I applied for a dog about three years ago with St. Francis of Assisi Service Dog Foundation, which trains and places service dogs with Virginia residents. About three weeks ago, I had an interview with Montana (Monty for short), his trainer, the head trainer, and the director of SF.

What can I say about Monty, except that he is lovable, smart, and incredibly sweet. He is a 2 1/2 year old black Lab. He will be able to assist mostly by helping me keep my balance and getting up from a seated to a standing position. It is a truly helpless feeling when I can't get up off a toilet! If I fall, he can brace me enough that I can get back up. This is an incredible dog. He will enrich our lives so much.

Monday, I begin 30 hours of required training with Monty and his trainer. After that, he will come home to live with us. It will be lots of work, and I can't wait to get started!!