It has been almost over two and a half years since I became very low functioning.

I have been on treatment for about a year roughly.

I feel I am making slow progress. I also am not getting worse.

I received a postcard telling me that they would be contacting me regarding an interview for a service dog within the next 4 weeks.

My concern is what happens when I do get better and if I should accept a service dog during the time I am recovering.

I know none of you can tell me when I will recover.

But, I am interested in hearing your opinion.

I have stopped traveling by train to the doctor's office and other places because 50% of the time it is not good.

I am thinking that I might get some of my independence back if I had a service dog with me.

It doesn't make sense but I think the companionship alone would help.

My hearing seems to have improved. I don't hear from people telling me that they came to my door and no one answered when I was at home now.

And I no longer loose the sound of someone when they are talking and just see their lips moving.

But, I also am not around people everyday. I have really cut my lifestyle way down.

I just started a Bible STudy once a week for an hour. We'll see if I am able to make it every week and how my hearing is during this time.

Vision is still a problem or focusing. But, it has improved. I am not sure what is going on with that.

I think it is more of a processing problem at this point or just so fatigued I can't see straight.

I have the power chair now so I will be able to get the dog out and about even when the walking thing is not working for me.

And I feel I am strong enough I can get the dog fresh water and food each day as long as I don't over do it one day and have to be down for several days after that.

A lot of this is because I do have the in home health care 10 hours a week. That has helped me tremendously.

The house gets vacuumed once a week now instead of twice a year. And I have meals regularly now.

My goal is to get well enough to get back in the classroom and take the dog with me.

He or she can help out at school and also be a reminder to not over do it and pace myself.

Because we have come a long way baby!

What do you all think. Any of you have service dogs? How have they helped you? And how long have you had them?

I have considered just getting a dog as a companion, but I am more interested in having a dog with me when I am out and about.

I need one that is a service dog in order to do this. I have heard that they do help with more independence and the companionship is great.

I'm quite familiar with the Service Dog Organization--Canine Companions for Independance. That organization exists to help people increase their functioning and independance.

These dogs make an incredible difference in people's lives. The fact that you need a service dog now is all that matters. Helping people improve is the whole point.

As you know, it's a long wait on these lists to get a dog. I encouage you to go foward with this. You'll never regret it.