As our second anniversary approaches, I have been reflecting on just how much my “Princess Pants” has changed my life. I decided to write her a letter and tell her…

Dear Willow,

Who knew that skinny girl up on the hill would save my life? You did. From the moment I walked in your pen and you locked on my eyes with “that look”, you knew. I’d heard the stories of your HOD, how you’d fought and rallied and survived. I knew you were an incredibly special girl but, I had no idea how special. From our first training outings to the time you first came home you showed such incredible love and patience with me. Let’s be honest, I was not an easy choice. I was still struggling with so many things. Yet you, stood rock steady at my side ready to take on the world with me.

During these two years you have taught me so very much. You’ve taught me to listen to you. For you know better than I when I’m having a bad day. You’ve taught me patience. To be patient with myself when I’m having a hard time and you gently remind me or steadfastly brace for me. Always with a kiss and a tail wag if I’m getting up from a fall as if to say “it’s okay, we’ll move on now”. You’ve taught me to embrace my life again. You are so very skilled and brilliant yet so funny at just the right times.

With you by my side my dear Willow, I am safe. I can walk without the fear of falling. If I do fall, you are there to help me up. You are a partner like no other. You chose to devote your life to me and you work by my side each day always happy to do so. You endure so many things and yet, you still wag your tail each time I ask you to “get dressed” to put on your working harness. When I open my eyes at night and see you looking back at me, I realize how truly blessed I am.  I’ll never fully be able to express the depth of gratitude, admiration and love I have for you. I can only try each day to continue to tell you, love you and provide you with the best possible “creature comforts” and care. Please know sweet Willow, without you my life would not be as it is. I always say, “My life will never be same as before MS but, because of Willow in some ways it’s actually better”. That, my precious Monkey Pants, says it all.

Love You To The Moon And Back,

Mom