An update from kind, compassionate Gilbert who self-trained SD Solea for his agoraphobia. When we first met, Gilbert would not even leave his house. Solea has changed his life. Gilbert’s diagnoses are Panic Disorder, Agoraphobia, Depression, Extreme Anxiety.

“Hi Laurie, it’s been a long time since i have sent an update. Since last sharing with you, Solea and I have had to endure some tough times with the loss of my uncle and cousin in two brutal murders. We attended the viewing services together. Our bond has grown even stronger since the last time and I only take anxiety medication if I’m going to be out of the house longer than 30 minutes at a time. We have managed over and over again on doing small outings such as a Family Dollar or a corner store. We went recently to a Subway together and were questioned if Solea was a Service Dog. I replied yes and educated an employee who was very interested to learn more. We also have been to the ER together due to dehydration from the stomach flu. We have been to Tractor Supply back to back recently together with no anxiety medicine! We also went to the movie theater recently – our second time there together and my second time in almost 4 years!”

GILBERT – I AM SO, SO VERY SORRY FOR THE HORRIFIC LOSS OF YOUR UNCLE AND COUSIN. I CAN’T IMAGINE HOW DIFFICULT THAT MUST HAVE BEEN FOR YOU. BUT I AM SO PROUD OF THE CONTINUAL PROGRESS YOU ARE MAKING WITH SOLEA – STEP BY STEP GETTING BACK TO A NORMAL LIFE YOU SO DESERVE!!