Next Step Graduation

Next Step Graduation

From Wayne’s Journal

This was the big week — the all-important test at Hamilton Place Mall. I had been looking forward to it and I honestly felt like Charlie would do it flawlessly. We met up in front of Barnes & Noble, giving the dogs a last-minute potty break before getting our final instructions for the test.

Once everyone arrived, Julie made an unexpected announcement: we would  surrender our treat pouches. Our companions had to complete the test without the usual crutch of treats. I’ll admit, I was caught off guard, and I’m sure some of the other handlers were, too. The treat pouch had been a big part of our training, helping Charlie  comply, especially when he was distracted.

A little panic set in. I thought to myself, How is this going to go without the treats? But, we had to trust in the training and our companions.

As we entered the mall, the first obstacle was the food court, and it was packed — really packed. Charlie hesitated a bit, and I could feel my anxiety creeping in, but I focused on him. We weaved through the crowd, and I just kept talking to him, reassuring him as we made our way into the main hallway near the elevators.

Charlie stayed close, grounding me as we waited our turn to go up in the elevator. Once we were on the elevator, everything went smoothly, and I was amazed at how calm Charlie was throughout the whole thing. He was truly the rock I needed.

On the second floor, we had our dogs sit and then lie down, followed by walking away from them to see if they would stay. Charlie nailed each task without hesitation. He provedhow much he had learned and how far we’d come. After that, we worked on the “drop leash” and “return,” followed by a short walk down the stairs back to the food court.

At this point, we sat in the food court, which felt like an eternity. It was overwhelming, the noise, the people, the smells — all of it. But Charlie layby my side, helping me stay grounded and distracting  me from the chaos around us. He kept me calm, and for that, I am incredibly grateful.

When Julie finally announced that we were done, I honestly felt like I could have run out of there, but instead, Charlie and I walked out together. We had passed.

I couldn’t be prouder of him. Charlie has truly proven to be a fantastic companion, and this experience has opened up so many possibilities for my family and me. It’s hard to put into words just how much this has meant to me.

This week, we’ve been taking it easy, especially with all the traveling back and forth to Greensboro, NC. It’s been tiring, but I wouldn’t trade this journey with Charlie for anything.

Thank you again to everyone at Warrior Freedom Dogs for making all of this possible. It’s been an incredible journey, and I know this is just the beginning.

Next Step Graduation

From Wayne’s Journal

The big day has finally arrived — graduation day! It’s hard to believe that after all the weeks of training, we’ve reached this milestone. Before I dive into the details of the ceremony, I want to take a moment to reflect on the responsibility we now have. While our service companions have proven their skills and are worthy of being Service Dogs, the work doesn’t stop here. We have a duty to continue working with them, ensuring those skills remain sharp and that they can always provide the support we need.

The Graduation Ceremony and dinner were nothing short of fantastic. I had no idea what to expect, but the evening exceeded every expectation. One of the most touching moments was when Quilts of Valor presented each of us with a quilt. It was unexpected, and the quilts were absolutely beautiful — an incredibly special gift. Along with the quilts, we were presented with our certificates and given a medical binder that details everything about our service companions.

Now, here’s the funny part: when I looked at the certificate and medical binder, I realized something that had me laughing at myself. I had been misspelling Charlie’s name for the past 10 weeks. It’s Charlie, not Charley! I couldn’t help but chuckle at myself for that one.

This journey has been life-changing for Charlie and me, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing team behind WFSD. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every  staff member, the kennel crew, the administration specialists, and especially the volunteers — particularly those foster families who opened their hearts and homes to help raise and train the puppies. You’ve given me a companion who has not only dramatically improved my quality of life but also impacted my family in ways words can’t fully capture.

I’m still working through the effects of my TBI and PTS, but having Charlie by my side has forever changed my world. He loves me unconditionally and knows when I’m struggling, often before I even realize it myself. That bond is something I’ll treasure forever.

As we look to the future, I know this is just the beginning. The training continues, and so does the journey. But with Charlie by my side, I’m ready for whatever comes next.

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey. It’s not just my victory — it’s ours.