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Independence Mobility Companionship
#two
2019
R25.00
Proudly sponsored by
Celebrating
30 years
Official Publication of South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind
South African Guide-Dogs Association for the blind
IN THIS ISSUE
Independence Mobility Companionship
#two
2019
R25.00
In this issue
Proudly sponsored by
Celebrate
Celebrating
10 Celebrating 30 years of inspirational stories!
Graduates
30 years
12 Meet our latest graduates
Inspiration
16 Independence regained
18 A dream realised
22 My Service Dog, my protector
27 With my Guide Dog by my side, I can take on the world!
Tips
21 Social etiquette when interacting with a person with visual
impairment
Heroes page
24 Celebrating the life of Malcolm Driver
Insight
Cover picture: Celebrating 30 years
Official Publication of South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind 30 From Puppy Raiser to Learner Service Dog Mobility Instructor
34 No longer my guide, forever in my heart
38 Overcoming fear of the unknown
4 Ed’s note Health
40 Glaucoma – silent thief of sight
Highlights
6 What’s on at Guide-Dogs Meet our pack
42 Meet our sponsored dog: Bella
Director’s note
8 News from our Top Dog Remembering friends
9 Achievements 46 A tribute to our friends who are no longer with us
Publisher: Panorama Media Corp / Animaltalk South African Guide-Dogs Association Head Office and Training Centre:
Editor: Michelle Immink 126 Wroxham Road, Rietfontein, 2IR, Sandton, P O Box 67585, Bryanston, 2021
Tel: 011 705 3512 Fax: 086 506 3364 Email: info@guidedog.org.za
Managing Editor: Mientjie Kleinhans
Website: www.guidedog.org.za
Designer: Perpetua Chigumira-Wenda
SA Guide-Dogs
Sub-editors: Claire Rencken ˚ Vanessa Koekemoer
@SAGuide_Dogs
Advertising: 011 468 2090, advertising@panorama.co.za sa_guide_dogs
Cape Town Office: P O Box 2674, Clareinch, 7740 Tel: 021 674 7395
KwaZulu-Natal Office: P O Box 20120, Durban North, 4016 Tel: 082 875 6244
2019 ISSUE 2 Friend in Harness is produced and sponsored by FRIEND IN HARNESS | 3
ED’S NOTE
Ed's Note
MAKE THE FINAL
countdown count!
T
he saying goes that time waits for no man. It seems
that time doesn’t discriminate based on gender!
This year has – once again – rushed right past me, without
granting me the opportunity to blink an eye. The last stretch
of a year always leaves me reflecting on the months that have
passed.
Friend in Harness turns a whopping 30 years old this year!
As we look back on its growth, our hearts fill with pride and
gratitude. The magazine has undergone big changes – we have
Going green campaign included more inspirational stories about our clients, and we
Help us become environmentally have added more content about our Orientation and Mobility
friendly and request to receive services. We have also included a section for the youngsters,
your Friend in Harness which we hope will serve as an educational platform to teach the
magazine and communications youth about people who are differently-abled and the dogs who
electronically. Not only will this assist them.
help us save costs, but it will also As we slow down approaching the holidays, I hope that you
avoid the returned and undelivered will shift your gaze towards the prize of what is yet to come.
mail that we receive back. There are still so many possibilities and achievements to strive
We are also on a mission to towards. Let’s make the final countdown count, and ensure that
update our database. Please 2019 ends on a positive high!
ensure that all your information is I will be reminding myself of these words by D.F Uchtdorf: “So
up to date. often we become so focused on the finish line, that we fail to
You can contact us at info@ enjoy the journey.”
guidedog.org.za or on 011 705 My hope is that you enjoy every last minute of this year’s
3512 to update your details or to journey.
request electronic copies of our
communication going forward.
We would love to hear from you! Michelle Immink
Please help us to continue our
communications with you.
4 | FRIEND IN HARNESS 2019 ISSUE 2
You can make a difference
o nate Here’s another way
d
We DA on you can support
to G behalf Guide-Dogs – subscribe
r
you to Animaltalk.
Subscribe online at
Cool Mags .com
or call us on 011 468 2090
For every subscription
received by February
2020, Animaltalk will
donate R30 to GDA.
DONATION VOUCHER
This voucher entitles you to a ‘meaningful’ Animaltalk subscription
for a 12- or 24-month period. Go to www.coolmags.co.za, and at the
checkout fill in the code GDAsub. The R30 donation will be flagged
and sent to GDA directly. Then sit back and relax, your favourite
magazine is on its way to you.
VOUCHER VALID UNTIL END FEBRUARY 2020
HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights
Gauteng Garden of
Discovery 947 Cycle Challenge
Peddle for our paws and make a difference.
This year’s event promises to be even
Pretoria Golf Day
Back by popular demand!
The beautiful city of
bigger and better! There are prizes up for Jacarandas will once again
St Christopher
grabs for the cyclist who raises the most play host to a golf day in aid
Spring Open funds for Team Guide-Dogs. of Guide-Dogs.
Garden with Date: 17 November To book your spot or for
S A Guide-Dogs Venue: Riversands Commercial Park, more information, contact
Johannesburg Yolande van Rooyen at
Come and enjoy delicious coffee and Entry: R1,000 per cyclist YolandeV@guidedog.org.za
drinks in the breathtaking gardens of To join our team, contact Yolande van or on 011 705 3512.
St Christopher. Don’t miss out on this Rooyen at YolandeV@guidedog.org.za or
prestigious event – tickets are selling on 011 705 3512. You can also sign up for
out fast! our Ability Club to receive information about
Date: 20 October our sporting events. Visit our website at
Time: 10h00 – 16h00 www.guidedog.org.za to find out more.
Tickets: R150 (includes entry and
refreshments)
Numbers are strictly limited and tickets
must be pre-booked.
Wh a
For more information and to keep up
with the progress of the events, please
follow us on Facebook. To be added to
the mailing list, please contact
admin@gardenofstchristopher.com or
on
011 447 1563.
National
Annual Gala Dinner
Join us for a spectacular evening filled
with glitz and glamour! Get your hands on
G uide
PAWsome auction items and dance the
night away for a good cause. See page 47
for more information.
Date: 12 October
Venue: Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg, and
Kelvin Grove, Cape Town
Time: 18h30 for 19h00
To book a table at our Johannesburg event,
contact Nadia Sands on 011 705 3512 or at
NadiaV@guidedog.org.za.
To book a table at our Cape Town event,
contact Jackie Quail on 021 647 7395 or at
JackieQ@guidedog.org.za.
Annual Car Raffle Competition
Our annual Car Raffle Competition ends 31 December and
you can stand a chance to win a brand new Suzuki Swift
worth more than R180,000!
Date: Competition ends 31 December
Ticket price: R30 per entry
To enter the competition, visit our webshop at
www.guidedog.org.za, complete the insert in this issue of our
magazine or visit the Guide-Dogs stand at one of our events.
6 | FRIEND IN HARNESS 2019 ISSUE 2
HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights
Cape Town Dogs Unite Dog Walk
Celebrate your hero dog by
participating in this 5km dog walk.
Cape Town Golf Day Each dog gets to walk the route in
Join us for a day out on the course with our their own superhero cape provided
gorgeous working dogs to cheer you on. There are on the day. This will be an easy
awesome prizes to be won and a competition for walk for the whole family to enjoy.
the golfer wearing the most creative golf trousers. Date: 1 February
Date: 29 November To participate or for more
Venue: Royal Cape Golf Club information, contact Jackie Quail
Cost: R2,500 for a four-ball, R1,000 for a hole at JackieQ@guidedog.org.za or on
sponsorship, R3,000 for a combo deal (four-ball 021 674 7395.
and hole sponsorship)
To book your spot or for more information, contact
Jackie Quail at JackieQ@guidedog.org.za or on
021 674 7395.
at ’s KwaZulu-Natal
at
Dogs Unite Dog Walk
Take to the pathways between the greens and enjoy a brisk
walk with Guide Dog owners and their Guide Dogs. Prizes to
be won for best dressed in blue.
Date: 5 October
g s
Venue: Windsor Country Club
- D o
Time: 08h00
e
Cost: R50 per dog
To participate or for more information, contact Ané Roux at
AneR@guidedog.org.za or on 082 875 6244.
Ladies Golf Day
Join the ladies of Northern KZN as
they raise funds for a KZN puppy
to be trained as a working dog.
Date: 26 September
Venue: Umhlali Country Club
Cost: R350 per person
To book your spot or for more
information, contact Ané Roux at
AneR@guidedog.org.za or on
082 875 6244.
Shongweni Christmas Market
Visit the vibrant market in Hillcrest and say
hello to the Guide Dogs!
Date: 14 December
Venue: Shongweni Farm, Hillcrest
For more information, contact Ané Roux at
AneR@guidedog.org.za or on 082 875 6244.
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 7
DIRECTOR’S NOTE
Director’s note
New s f r o m o u r
Top Dog
W
ith the year already well into its takes full responsibility for the Service and
second half, I would like to take Autism Support Dog Training department.
this opportunity to reflect on the • Elizabeth Louw, Head of our College of
happenings at our Association thus far Orientation and Mobility (COM), identified seven
this year. students to sponsor. These students have
embarked on a two-year training course with
In our tough economic climate, we are all our Association. The objective is to employ them
feeling the financial pinch. Our dedicated on a full-time basis once they have qualified, so
investors have, however, continued to support that they can join and strengthen the already
S A Guide-Dogs Association’s call. Thanks highly successful COM team.
to them, we have been able to increase the • The Marketing department, under
number of differently-abled people trained the leadership of Nadia Sands, has been
through our Orientation and Mobility, Guide, strengthened in Johannesburg, Cape Town and
Service and Autism Support Dog divisions. Durban. This team is responsible for generating
The Association has gone through some revenue to meet our growing demands.
structural changes, which allow us to better • Claudia Sanne has joined us, taking on
assist those we serve: the responsibility of looking after our Puppy
• Puppy Raiser Supervisors and Guide Dog Raisers. Claudia qualified as a medical
Trainers were combined under one umbrella, doctor in Germany in 1984 and practised as
reporting to Gail Glover. a physician before moving to SA in 1990,
• Maxine Geddie was promoted, and now where she continued to work as a Registrar
8 | FRIEND IN HARNESS 2019 ISSUE 2
ANNUAL STATISTICS
Annual statistics
Your support has made it possible for us to reach new
at the Baragwanath Hospital until heights! In the past financial year, your investment has
1992. Raising a family of three kids, enabled us to accomplish the following:
she considered a career change,
and pursued her interest in dogs.
Since 1999, Claudia has been
working closely with dog trainers
96
Puppies born.
8,760
and behaviourists in China, Moscow Number of
and SA. hours of care
provided to
I’d like to take a moment to
acknowledge our hard-working 58
Number of children who completed
pups and
moms in
Puppy Raisers. These special Puppy Block.
volunteers open their hearts and their school community service
homes, and dedicate many hours hours volunteering at Puppy Block.
of their time, to raising our puppies.
When I see the tears flow as they
hand back the puppies to commence
33 Guide Dogs trained.
45
with formal training, it is evident that Working dogs
loving bonds between Raiser and pup
have been forged over the months.
9 Service Dogs trained. trained in total.
Without the unwavering support of
our Puppy Raisers, we would never
be able to achieve our mission, which
359 3 Autism Support
Dogs trained.
is “to enhance the lives of visually
and physically impaired people and Visually We presented visual
children with Autism”. Thank you, impaired impairment awareness
Puppy Raisers! Orientation workshops to
and Mobility
293
Our strategy for next year is to start
developing the cornerstones for our clients
growth strategy, which will be made assisted.
people.
public in due course. Two of the
pillars that will require assistance are
Donor Investments and increasing our
number of suitable Puppy Raisers.
We are currently training nine
Orientation and Mobility Practitioners on
In closing, I would like to wish our two-year diploma course.
everyone a successful and healthy
final quarter of 2019. The festive
season is not that far away, and the
time leading up to it can be stressful.
Take special care over this period,
and if travelling, do so safely. May
your year end on a high note, and we We provided basic Orientation and Mobility skills training to
17
look forward to exciting things around
the 2020 corner!
ophthalmologic nurses.
Vernon Tutton
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 9
n g
CELEBRATE
e l e b r a t i
Celebrate
C
30 years
of inspirational stories!
T
his year we celebrate 30 years of
Friend in Harness Magazine. What was
originally planned to be a yearly
publication has since grown into a much-
loved bi-annual publication, which is
distributed to 18,000 people nationally.
As with almost every aspect of our Association,
its founder, Gladys Evans, played a vital role in the
history of our magazine. Gladys was intimately
involved in all aspects of S A Guide-Dogs and
it therefore comes as no surprise that she was
greatly vested in each issue of the magazine. From
conception to design, Gladys kept her finger on the
pulse at all times.
The magazine was named ‘Friend in Harness’
to illustrate the Association’s services while
taking care not to imitate the magazines of
similar worldwide associations. Friend in Harness
has since grown into its own brand – one that we
are extremely proud of.
Throughout its 30-year existence, Friend in
Harness has undergone some big changes.
Although the magazine was originally printed
in black and white, it has kept up with the
times and is currently printed in full colour. It is
important that the magazine reflects the trends
of the time in terms of layout and design, and
as advances in technology improved, so did
our magazine. To ensure that our magazine is
widely accessible, it is made available on our
website. Our clients who are visually impaired
Friend in Harness has showcased many
milestones throughout its lifetime. receive their copy electronically in a format
that is compatible with assistive programs
10 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2such as JAWS. This version of the magazine is environmental footprint and we have therefore Top left:
also designed in a colour-contrasting font and launched our ‘Going green’ campaign. Our The second
issue of
background, which improves its legibility for our hope is to shift from a predominantly printed Friend in
clients with poor vision. magazine to an electronic one. Harness,
Our magazine has not only undergone We would like to take the opportunity to thank published in
physical changes throughout its life, but it has everyone who has played a part in ensuring 1989.
also adapted in terms of content. The focus of the success of the magazine throughout Right: GDA
the magazine has changed from a reporting its existence. Thank you to our clients, who founder,
Gladys
structure, to that of a magazine showcasing continue to inspire us every day. Thank you to Evans,
stories from our inspirational clients and their our Puppy Raisers and volunteers for dedicating played a vital
working dogs. We have used the magazine your energy, time and passion to our cause. role in the
to communicate our services, news and Your stories continue to be a big part of our magazine’s
happenings at the Association, and to promote magazine’s success. Thank you to our loyal history.
and give thanks to our investors. Great care has and dedicated employees, who ensure that our
been taken to give the magazine a more relaxed clients are always centre stage in all that we
and fun feel while retaining its integrity. do. Thank you to our supporters, sponsors and
S A Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind has investors who enable us to continue with the
always placed high importance on family values work we do. Without your support, we wouldn’t
and inclusion. As we continue to grow the have stories to tell. Thank you to all who read
magazine, we will continue to hold these values our magazine; we hope that our stories have
dear. We plan to feature even more articles touched your hearts.
about our clients, and our focus has widened We are optimistic and excited about the
to include more articles from our College of magazine’s future and the lives it will touch in
Orientation and Mobility. We have also identified the years to come. We invite you to undertake
the need to appeal to and educate the youth the journey with us. Get involved in the growth
about people who are differently-abled, and we and success of our magazine.
have therefore included a section specifically
for youngsters. We are equally conscious of our Michelle Immink
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 11GRADUATES
Graduates
graduates
Meet our
latest
G
raduation day is the highlight of an
intensive and emotional two-week
training course. This ceremony
commemorates the accomplishments of
our students and their new companions.
Furthermore, graduation day
acknowledges and celebrates the hard
work, passion and dedication of our
investors, Puppy Raisers, Instructors and
most importantly, our inspirational
clients and their dogs. It serves as a
symbol of empowerment; the graduating
partnerships have gained the skills and
confidence to live their lives
independently. This is a remarkable feat.
Puppy Raisers are invited to the graduation
ceremony to celebrate the life-changing
partnerships they helped create. On the day, we
also offer tours of our facilities and we provide
more insight into the process involved in training
our working dogs.
We would like to thank the many links
involved in the chain that ultimately results
in a successful graduating partnership.
Without your contribution and passion for our
Association, none of this would be possible.
We salute you!
Congratulations to our graduates and their
working dogs. You have earned this grand
accomplishment and we wish you all the best Top (left to right): Christo Zeelie with Guide Dog Ben; Colette Roos with
in your future endeavours. Welcome to the Guide Dog Ophelia; Cornelia Liebenberg with Guide Dog Athena; Middle:
Guide-Dogs family! Carole Cross with Service Dog Shiloh; Gail Cillie with Guide Dog Bessie;
Cornelle Leach with Guide Dog Vogue; Bottom: Frans van der Water with
Guide Dog Luke; Frankford Williams with Guide Dog Pickles; Deon van
Michelle Immink Huyssteen with Guide Dog Victor.
12 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2Top (left to right): Hector Loftus with Guide Dog
Milan; Hester van Deventer with Guide Dog
Usko; John Davidtz with Guide Dog Vega; Hanif
Kruger with Guide Dog Brooke.
2nd row: Julia Pitt with Service Dog Trevor; Kim
Lewis with Guide Dog Jessie; Mark Colegate
with Guide Dog AB; Retha Stassen with Guide
Dog Viola.
3rd row: Shevon van den Berg with Service Dog
Serina; Susan Webber with Guide Dog Wexsi;
Theo Louis with Guide Dog Ultra.
Bottom: Wilhelm van Deventer with Guide Dog
Webster; Tanya Venter with Guide Dog Nova.
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 13Who let the
dogs in?
We did.
Service and Guide Dogs always
welcome at Nando’s.
Ts & Cs apply
For queries, call customer care on 0860 113 332INSPIRATION Inspiration 16 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2
e p e n
Indregained d e n c e
M
ark Davis is a 63-year-old man
residing in Boksburg, Gauteng.
Although he has been visually
impaired for more than 20 years, he had
never received any Orientation and
Left: Mark
Mobility training before I got the using a
opportunity to work with him. money
identifier to
Mark lost his sight as a result of a rare disease, distinguish
which also impaired his hearing. Because of between
different
his hearing loss, he uses a hearing aid. Mark’s
bank notes.
wife, Theresa, was a crucial part of his training, Mark how to walk with the assistance of a long Right:
because the hearing aid was unable to pick cane, it became clear to me that he would Mark was
up the deeper tone of my voice. I therefore require more stability, so we provided him with provided
had to rely heavily on Theresa to convey my a walking stick. The walking stick assisted with a
instructions. Mark in maintaining his balance while using his liquid level
indicator
cane skills to ensure that he doesn’t bump into
device,
Life challenges obstacles whilst walking. which makes
One of the challenges Mark faced, was Another skill that Mark has acquired during a beeping
identifying money when making purchases. Not training, is to pour liquids using a liquid level sound to
knowing how much money is in your wallet can indicator. This is a device that attaches to a indicate
be quite distressing. I decided that this would mug, cup or glass and makes an audible sound that an
appropriate
be my first task – teaching Mark how to identify when the liquid reaches the bottom probe of the
liquid level
coins and banknotes. Once he had learned this device. This is a useful tool to ensure that our has been
valuable skill, he gained confidence in knowing clients don’t burn their fingers when pouring reached.
that, although he was differently-abled, there hot liquids and it also assists in minimising the
were many ways in which he could remain chances of over-filling a container.
independent. Seeing the joy it brought Mark Although Mark has not yet completed his
to be able to identify money using a money training with me, the changes I have witnessed
template, was very touching. already have been phenomenal. Mark is now
able to walk without Theresa’s assistance and
Staying active he can safely navigate his way to a nearby
Prior to losing his eyesight, Mark enjoyed fuel station. He can also make purchases on
keeping fit by playing football and jogging. One his own. The improvements in Mark’s mobility,
of his greatest desires was to be able to walk independence and self-esteem have been so
around the village where he lives. This was a rewarding and I look forward to teaching him
daunting task, because he had suffered several many more skills that he will use daily.
injuries due to his sight loss. He also struggled
to keep his balance. When I started teaching Meggie Banda
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 17INSPIRATION
Inspiration
am
aredalised
re
18 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2Clockwise: Nape provided Enoch with a rigid cane confidence to keep my head up and to keep my eye on
and taught him how to use it effectively; Nape the end goal; to change the lives of others.
underwent extensive training to enable him to
I completed my Diploma in Orientation and Mobility in
understand the challenges his clients face; Nape
during training with one of his clients, Juan. 2016. Looking back to where I began, I can honestly say
that I have grown and learned a lot. I have gained more
insight into the challenges faced by people with visual
impairments, and I have become increasingly grateful
for what I have. I have learned many skills, which include
B
efore I became a part of the S A Guide-Dogs how to approach and interact with people who are visually
Association for the Blind (GDA) family, I impaired, and how to teach them skills that enable them
worked at a retail company. Although I to remain independent. I have learned that although we
enjoyed working with people, I yearned to make a are all different, it is what we share that unites us; we all
meaningful impact in the lives of others. want to be included and accepted.
My dream was realised in 2017 when I was employed
I came across an advertisement promoting the Diploma as a full-time Orientation and Mobility Practitioner at COM.
in Orientation and Mobility offered by the College of I thoroughly enjoy my role, where I get to provide our
Orientation and Mobility (COM) at GDA. I knew that this services to people in need. The skills and knowledge that
was an opportunity not to be missed and I immediately I have acquired during my studies are put to good use on
applied to enrol at COM. I had always wanted to attend a daily basis, as I am able to assist our clients in reaching
school, but we didn’t have the funds because my father their goals.
was unemployed because of his health. The opportunity to The Association has provided me with an education and
gain an education from COM was heaven-sent and I just a career in the visual impairment sector, and for this, I will
had to seize it! be eternally grateful. I feel extremely lucky to witness the
changes in our clients, when they are taught skills that
New beginnings make their lives easier. My hope is that South Africa will
My first day at the Association was quite overwhelming. continue to strive towards the employment and inclusion
I had very little knowledge about the work of COM, but of people who are differently-abled, and I look forward to
I was excited about the opportunity and eager to learn being a part of this journey for many years to come.
more. I knew that I wanted to be part of an Association
that would grant me the opportunity to make a Nape Mashiane
difference, and that was ample motivation for me.
DID YOU KNOW?
After I was accepted at the College, we visited Prinshof
School for the visually impaired, to gain a deeper
understanding of what it entails to be an Orientation and
Mobility Practitioner. I vividly recall seeing children with An eyesight simulator simulates
visual impairments walking and playing with each other,
the vision of someone who is
and I was deeply touched. At that moment, I knew that
this was what I was meant to do. visually impaired. Different
simulators are used to simulate
New concepts
what the world looks like to
During the first few months as a Student Orientation and
Mobility Practitioner, I found it challenging to understand people with cataracts, tunnel
the concepts that I was being taught during lectures. vision or Stargardt’s disease, for
What I was being taught at the College was very different
example.
from anything that I had learned before. The comradeship
amongst the students in my class, however, gave me the
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 19INSIGHT
Social etiquette
Insight
when interacting with a person with
visual impairment
Softly touch the
Introduce yourself by
person’s arm or
name if the person
If the conversation shoulder to get their
does not know your
is over and you are attention, as they
voice very well.
leaving, say goodbye, may not know that
as just walking away you are there.
could leave the other
person talking to
themselves.
Ask whether
If the person owns
guidance or
a Guide Dog, ask
support are
permission to touch
required – the
or pet the dog.
person may be
fully capable of
helping him- or
herself.
Speak in a
normal voice;
there is no need
Use specific to raise the
language when volume of your
giving directions. voice.
Say ‘the door is
on your right’,
instead of a vague
description, such as Speak to the
‘over there’. person directly –
not through a third
person.
Use verbal responses;
avoid nodding and
shaking your head.
Look at the person
when speaking
No need to avoid using In a group setup, to them; good
phrases such as ‘look’ or introduce the other manners apply in all
‘see you later’ – these are people who are conversations.
not considered offensive. present.
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 21My
my
Service Dog,
protector
Photography: Linda Jansen van Rensburg, Jvr Photo-Art
I
am a 35-year-old retired heating, It was devastating waking up the following day,
ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) not being able to do the things that most of us
Technician/Engineer. The past nine take for granted every day. I have very little hand
years have been quite a rollercoaster. I function, and find it difficult to pick up or hold
was involved in a motor vehicle objects in my hands. Being a very independent
accident, in which the car that I was person, I found it frustrating and humiliating
travelling in, aquaplaned and rolled. The having to rely on others for assistance. This often
accident left me a quadriplegic, with left me feeling like a burden to those around me,
very limited hand function. and my self-confidence took a knock.
22 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2INSPIRATION
INSPIRATION
I found out about S A Guide-Dogs Association
for the Blind in 2012. I had never heard of the
Association before that, and I was excited about
the fact that it trains Service Dogs for people with
physical disabilities. Although I wanted to apply for
a Service Dog, I couldn’t muster up the courage
to do so at the time, and it took me another seven
challenging years to finally apply for a working dog.
When I was informed that the Association had
the perfect Service Dog for me and my specific
needs, I was delighted! Not all Service Dogs are
created equal, and each dog is taught a set of
skills that are specific to the needs of the client to
whom they have been matched.
I counted the days and couldn’t wait to meet
my new companion, Sanjo, who was to arrive in
Port Elizabeth all the way from Gauteng. I was
so excited and anxious as I awaited his arrival.
When we finally met, all my fears and doubts
disappeared, and I knew that this was the best
decision that I had ever made.
The first few weeks of training were quite
overwhelming. Although I wasn’t sure how I
was ever going to remember everything that the
instructor was teaching me, I was determined
to succeed. As time passed, working with Sanjo
became second nature and we had lots of fun and
laughs. Sanjo was eager to work and we quickly
formed an inseparable bond.
Having a Service Dog has dramatically improved am an avid dog lover, I would never have imagined
my quality of life. I no longer rely so heavily on that I could love a dog as much as I love Sanjo. Sanjo
my wife and daughter to assist me with everyday He has a gentle nature and is very loving. He is
tasks. Sanjo can fetch items like my cell phone highly intelligent (more than most people, I think!)
or the television remote control. He picks up and acts like my guardian, protecting me from the
things that I have dropped, and he takes off my dangers of the outside world.
shoes after a long day at work. Because I am in Sanjo has accepted our family as his own. He
a wheelchair, Sanjo acts as my personal butler, is loved by my wife and daughter, as well as all
opening and closing doors. If I am ever in an our friends, who regularly spoil him with cuddles
emergency, Sanjo can call for assistance. He and kisses.
literally is a lifesaver! I am eternally grateful for the assistance,
Sanjo’s abilities are, however, not limited to companionship and independence that I have
these tasks. He also doubles as a therapy dog. I found through Sanjo. I cannot imagine my life
suffer from chronic pain, due to the injuries that without him, and I look forward to having him by
I sustained in the accident. Snuggling with Sanjo my side for many years to come.
calms me, and takes my mind off the pain.
Owning a Service Dog is truly magical. Although I Daniel Theron
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 23INSPIRATION
Celebrating
Inspiration
the life of Malcolm Driver
Association. Gladys was a Guide Dog owner
herself, and she made a significant impression
on Malcolm. Together, Gladys, the late Ken
Lord who was Executive Director of GDA, and
Malcolm, established and grew the Association
to what it is today.
During his time at the Association, Malcolm
made many noteworthy contributions. He played
a vital role in organising the examinations that
the Guide Dog Mobility Instructors and their
learners undertook. As a result, the Association
was certified by GDBA in the UK and was
awarded an international qualification.
Malcolm was also selected as an International
Assessor for the International Guide Dog
Federation. He travelled to many countries,
assisting and advising smaller associations.
He also brought back a wealth of knowledge
from the larger associations that he visited and
implemented similar structures and processes
at GDA.
Malcolm implemented the provisioning
of Service and Autism Support Dogs for
W
e were deeply saddened to learn people who are physically impaired and for
of the passing of former children with autism. This service has proved
Executive Director of the to be vital and has provided many people
Association, Malcolm Driver. with independence and companionship.
Furthermore, Malcolm played a vital part in
Malcolm was involved in the work of Guide Dog the development of a Service Dog Block. He
organisations for 43 years. His love for dogs led also managed the building and expansion to
him to join the RAF police dog unit, from which the main kennel blocks, which resulted in an
he completed an apprenticeship with Guide increased capacity to enable the Association to
Dogs for the Blind Association (GDBA) in the UK. serve more clients.
Malcolm was passionate about helping others, When Ken Lord retired in 2004, Malcolm took
and after 10 years at GDBA, he was offered the over as Executive Director of the Association.
position of Head of Training at S A Guide-Dogs During this time, he continued to touch the
Association for the Blind (GDA). lives of volunteers, staff, clients and investors.
Early in his career at GDA, Malcolm worked Malcolm was a mentor to many of the staff
alongside Gladys Evans, the founder of the members, who fondly remember him as
24 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2Top left: GDA erected a plaque in memory of Malcolm on our ‘Wall of Remembrance’ at Paulshof. Top right: Malcolm’s wife Dianne, son Shawn and daughter Caela unveiled the plaque. Caela, following in her father’s footsteps, recently qualified as a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor. Above: GDA celebrated the memory of Malcolm by hosting a tea after the plaque unveiling. This was one of Malcolm’s favourite beverages. Right: Malcolm and Dianne attended many fundraising functions for GDA. someone who was fiercely loyal, fair and understanding. He was passionate about the work of the Association and had a compassionate heart towards the visually and physically impaired community in South Africa. Malcolm always had time for the Association’s clients and treated them with dignity and respect. In his dealings with investors, he focused on building long-term relationships. After serving the Association as Executive Director for 10 years, Malcolm retired to spend more time with his family. Malcolm embodied what we at the Association strive towards every day. We will miss him dearly, but we are grateful for the time he spent with us. We will forever hold on to the memories we have of him and we will continue to uphold his legacy in all that we do. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Malcolm’s wife, Diane, and his two children, Shawn and Caela. 2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 25
INSPIRATION
Inspiration
Remembering Malcolm
Gail Glover
As was Malcolm’s wish, we would like to celebrate his
life at this time and focus on moving forward in our own
lives with happy memories of Malcolm’s friendship.
Malcolm was empathetic toward people. He wanted to
help everybody, and he always gave people the benefit Urs Honegger
of the doubt. Malcolm tried to teach us to focus on what The best and most imprinted memory I
was important in life. He emphasised the role that we have is when Malcolm allowed me to walk
play in providing service to people less fortunate than blindfolded down a pavement in Norwood
ourselves. – led by Khyba, the Guide Dog I had puppy
Looking around the Association, you see many walked. Thank you, my friend, this is a most
reminders of Malcolm’s influence. Many of the senior priceless gift you gave me.
staff were recruited, trained and mentored by Malcolm.
He ensured that we understood the Association’s values
and never lost sight of why we were here and who we Pieter van Niekerk
were serving. I had the privilege of meeting Malcolm when
Malcolm was wise, honest and always acted with I came to S A Guide-Dogs’ Training Centre in
integrity. We were fortunate to have known him and will January 1987. I will always remember him as
think fondly of him when we see the white butterflies a very passionate and caring person with a fine
flying North, or when the lessons that he taught us are sense of humour. I got to know a more caring
implemented in our daily lives. Malcolm made the world side of Malcolm when I joined the team full-time
a better place and we will do our best to follow his in February 2002. No crisis was ever too big for
example. him to give guidance; his advice was always spot-
on; and when he started our interaction with “My
Florence Bilsland boy…” – I just knew that one of his many wisdoms
Thinking about Malcolm Driver brings a smile to my was soon to follow!
face. He was a special man who did so much for
the Guide-Dog world. Malcolm was influential in his Moira Higgerty
management of S A Guide-Dogs and he was known Malcolm enjoyed life and lived it to the fullest.
and respected worldwide as an outstanding Instructor. He cared deeply for his family, friends, staff and
Training was Malcolm’s forte and he excelled in this the greater community of people with visual
field. impairment. He was sensitive to the needs of others
When Malcolm was appointed as Executive Director of and had a good sense of humour.
the Association, we knew that we were in good hands. Malcolm was a good organiser, whether it was
Malcolm cared deeply about his role and his staff. His a party at home, an event or function at work, or
door was always open, and he was always willing to implementing a new fundraising project. He was
help staff with their problems. In his quiet, unassuming an extremely good listener and had the rare ability
way, he would do what he could to help, and always of being a good ‘sounding board’ – helping you
advised, “don’t worry, together we will find a solution.” to work through a problem rather than telling you
Wherever you are now Malcolm, I know that it is very what to do. Malcolm was an incredibly loyal friend,
near the rainbow bridge, your happy place, and that all colleague and ‘boss’, and I feel greatly privileged
is well in your world. and enriched for having known him.
26 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2INSPIRATION
Inspiration
With my
Guide Dog
by my side,
I can take
on the
world!
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 27INSPIRATION
Inspiration
I
started my journey as a person with experiencing new things and meeting lots of
Dale striking a visual impairment in 1994 when I was new people, I made quite a few teary phone
pose on Otillia only six years old. My teacher noticed calls home. There were many challenges that I
and David’s that I was unable to see the blackboard faced but they didn’t deter me from my mission.
wedding day.
clearly. After numerous visits to the I longed to fit into society and I started to hide
specialist, I was finally diagnosed with a my impairment at all costs. I didn’t use my cell
genetic eye condition called Stargardt’s, phone in public in order to avoid fellow students
which is a form of macular degeneration noticing how closely I had to look at my screen.
that causes a loss in central vision. I learned that, in order for me to appear less
squint, I had to look to the left of the person I
My parents decided to enrol me at Prinshof was speaking to. I also had to constantly break
School for the visually impaired and I my routines and step out of my comfort zone to
matriculated in 2006. While most teenagers my try to build my confidence and self-esteem. It
age were applying to get their licences for their was exhausting, but I was determined.
shiny cars, I was applying to get my shiny black After graduating, I opened a therapeutic
canine transporter, a Guide Dog named Tia. massage practice. My partner David – who
Tia Maria stole my heart at first sight, but recently became my husband – and I bought
our time together was short-lived. Once Tia a home and established a rather comfortable
Maria bonded with me, she started to show life for ourselves. I realised that, the more
protective aggression towards the public and I comfortable I got, the less I was challenging
was advised by the S A Guide-Dogs Association myself, and my independence and confidence
(GDA) that she could no longer work as a Guide suffered as a result. Over time, I became more
Dog. and more withdrawn, and I often felt like a
When it was time to apply at a university, I burden to my partner and my sister.
made the deliberate decision to choose one One day, whilst walking my normal route to
that was far away from anyone and anything work, I stumbled over some rocks and pieces
that I knew. I was yearning for independence of concrete. There was construction being
and Potchefstroom became my new home. undertaken along the entire route that I had
Although it was an adventurous time in my life, to walk! It dawned on me that I was using my
28 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2at that moment, I knew that life as I knew it
would never be the same.
The two weeks of training that followed were
challenging, emotional, exciting and rewarding.
I got to meet new people and build friendships
with my classmates, as we walked the streets
of Johannesburg as part of our training. Our
instructor would simply clear his throat and all
four dogs would sit at attention, awaiting their
next cue. This was, however, not the case with
us as owners! We soon learned never to hold
our teacups in the same hand as our dog’s
lead. After a few flying cups, a sprained pinkie
and an incident that resulted in minor grass
burns after being dragged across the lawn, I
developed good, strong biceps. With patience,
consistency and lots of laughs, the bond and
trust between dog and owner grew.
memory instead of my sight to get to work David and Dale had an instant connection.
and that this was very dangerous, because Dale accepted us as her new pack and soon
I was unable to see the ditches, holes, and learned that David couldn’t resist her puppy
obstacles. This realisation heightened my eyes. A few months after completing our
anxiety and I started relying even more on training, David surprised us with a weekend
those around me. away for my 30th birthday. On the peak of a
Applying for a Guide Dog was a big decision mountain overlooking Golden Gate National
for me. In my mind, this meant that I had to Park, David convinced Dale to bring me a
reveal my disability, which I had spent such a message in a bottle sealed with a ring.
long time hiding from the world. I didn’t want At our wedding, Dale had the pivotal task
to draw attention to my weakness. Until then, I of being our ring bearer. She lit up every face
had thought that I was coping quite well. Boy, as she ran down the aisle, the flowers on her
was I wrong! harness framing her body. She took great joy in
I was absolutely thrilled when I received a celebrating with us, hopping around the dance
phone call from GDA informing me that they floor while we danced the night away.
had the perfect Guide Dog for me! I had only Dale is my new, shiny black sports model.
been waiting for a few months after I had She comes complete with built-in navigation,
applied, but it felt like a lifetime. 360-degree obstacle sensors, and an
The moments before meeting my Guide Dog impressive ABS brake system. She has become
for the first time were filled with a combination my eyes, my confidante and my best friend.
of nerves and excitement. It truly felt like a She has given me back my self-confidence
blind date setup! There were many questions that I was so desperate to have restored. There
rushing through my mind. I wondered what is no sighted person alive that would ever
my Guide Dog was like and I was worried that understand the complete trust, love, gratitude,
our partnership might not fit like a glove. I also and companionship between a visually disabled
worried about my ability to take care of a dog. person and their Guide Dog.
Suddenly, all my fears vanished as I was Dale is a part of me and I am a part of her.
knocked over by an ecstatic black Labrador
Retriever! Dale was bouncing around me and Otillia Wigley
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 29INSIGHT Insight 30 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2
From PupSpeyrvRicaeisDerotog
Learner
Mobility Instructor
I
started my career in the air force, where to find out if they offered any volunteer positions
I was a chef for 13 years. I resigned that could suit my daughter, but unfortunately, Left to right:
because my husband was offered a she was too young to take up any of the Kingsley and
Jedi; Kingsley
position in Australia, but in the end, we positions available at the time. and young Jedi.
couldn’t relocate there because of the Being an animal lover myself, I decided
worldwide crisis in 2008. to apply to the Association’s Puppy Raising
Scheme, because I wasn’t working at the time
Soon after, my daughter had to choose which and I was looking for a way in which I could
subjects she wanted to take at school, but make a difference. This also presented me with
because she was unsure of what she wanted the opportunity to see what it was like to work
to study after school, this was quite a difficult with animals.
decision for her to make. She really wanted to
work with animals, but not necessarily become First puppy
a veterinarian. She has a very soft spot for The first puppy I raised for GDA was Kingsley,
animals and feared that she would not be able the most beautiful black Labrador Retriever. I
to cope with witnessing them suffering when had no idea how to raise a GDA dog and the
they are sick. experience was a real eye-opener. I learned a
tremendous amount about dogs, their behaviour
Working with dogs and how to train them, and I enjoyed every
I looked through a list of vacancies online and I minute of it.
came across S A Guide-Dogs Association for the Prior to this experience, I had no idea that you
Blind (GDA). I decided to contact the Association could teach a dog to switch on lights, to retrieve
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 31INSIGHT
Insight
Theresa’s
second Guide
Dog puppy,
Jedi.
specific items or to open and close Jedi would follow me wherever I second year of training to become
doors. I was fascinated and amazed went, and he never left my side. a qualified Service Dog Mobility
at a dog’s level of intelligence and When going to the bathroom, I knew Instructor and I have learned many
I yearned to learn more. I applied not to close the door, because he new things. At present, I train Service
for a position as a Learner Service would push it right open, and come Dogs to either assist a person who is
Dog Mobility Instructor at GDA, but and lie on the bathroom mat. in a wheelchair or to be a companion
my application was unsuccessful. to a child with Autism Spectrum
This, however, did not deter me and Building self-confidence Disorder.
I enrolled in an animal behaviour On a personal level, being a part During my time at the Association,
course from COAPE (Centre of of the Puppy Raising Scheme did I have learned more than I could
Applied Pet Ethology). During this wonders for my self-confidence. I ever have imagined. I often interview
time, I raised my second puppy, used to be a very shy person but prospective clients, and I need to
a Golden Retriever named Jedi. puppy raising has taught me how know how to train our clients once
I worked extremely hard with my to speak to large crowds. I enjoy they have been matched with a
brand-new ball of fluff and put in educating members of the public working dog.
many hours of training. about the work of the Association and Applying to become a Puppy Raiser
My experiences in raising Kingsley the abilities of the working dogs, and has proved to be the best decision
and Jedi differed quite a bit. Labrador how they make a positive impact in that I ever made.
Retrievers are happy to be with their the lives of their owners. I am grateful for the journey that
owners, but they don’t necessarily After completing Jedi’s 12 months has led me to GDA, and I look
need to be with them all the time. of training, I was offered a position forward to touching the lives of many
When I got Jedi, it was a completely as a Learner Service Dog Mobility more of our clients.
different story. Golden Retrievers are Instructor at GDA and I didn’t hesitate
known to be their owner’s shadow. to accept! I am currently in my Theresa Verschueren
32 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2JOIN THE JOURNEY
and make a difference!
Join Team Guide-Dogs
and help turn puppies into working dogs
Step 1 Step 2 Step 3
Register to Join our Journey Raise more than
participate in the by sending us your R1000 and stand a
947 Discovery Cycle proof of payment and chance to win
completed Rider
Challenge website amazing prizes
Information
form
By registering to Join the Journey, you’ll receive
the following:
•Dedicated Starting Time
•Branded Cycle Jersey Registration
•Branded Arm-Warmers Fee to join Team
•Cycle Pack collection on
your behalf Guide-Dogs:
•Goodie Bag R1000
•Post-race Hospitality
Register on www.guidedog.org.za/shopINSIGHT
Insight
forever in my heart
No longer my guide,
34 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2O
h, what a special day it was when
the ‘O’ litter was born on 17 August
2007. Mother Deeva gave birth to
nine strong, healthy Golden Retriever
puppies, who were fathered by Classy.
One of the pups was fostered by the Hamilton
family from Greymont, and soon mommy Louise
told him that his name was going to be O’Reilly,
and that his destiny was to change someone’s
life. Little O’Reilly was loved by the whole family
and had lots of fun during his puppy classes,
but his absolute favourite activity was to play
at the Emmarentia Dam every weekend. It was
soon very clear that he was going to become
a very special Guide Dog. After completing his
six months of formal training with his instructor
Nadine, he spent another two weeks doing
residential training, and that’s where we met.
Our journey together officially started on
26 April 2008, when O’Reilly graduated and
became my four-footed companion – O’Reilly O’Reilly’s lifestyle over the last few months. He
Retriever-van Niekerk! He was soon very recently became a Sandton resident when he Pieter with his
popular amongst the supporters of South adopted our Head of Marketing, Nadia Sands, retired Guide
Dog, O’Reilly.
African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind and her husband, Stephen, as his new ‘live-in
(GDA). Puppy Raisers adored him, the daily companions’ and settled in like a charm in their
volunteers signed up to his fan club and all home, which he shares with two other family
the staff loved him. His popularity amongst dogs. He also appointed himself as Stephen’s
pre-primary, primary and high school learners alarm clock and does not miss a beat when
soared as, early on in his career, he was often he has to wake them up to be fed or to get a
invited as a special guest to their schools’ special treat. He also enjoys his regular visits
assemblies and activities. to the family’s holiday home at the Vaal, where
For the next nine-and-a-half years, O’Reilly was he gets to swim as much as he wants. He
the four-pawed face of the Association and his often accompanies Nadia to the office, where
photo was proudly published in many newspaper he spends his days either with the marketing
and magazine articles. He was also the star in team, with Shogun and me, assisting the training
several television productions. In October 2018, department, or attending marketing and PR
O’Reilly’s career path shifted, when he became events and activities. He has also received a
the Public Relations dog for GDA. He will never special Public Relations jacket, which he wears
admit that he had to step down to allow my with pride.
current Guide Dog, Shogun to take over the reins! The qualities that make O’Reilly such a legend,
Although O’Reilly is no longer a working dog, are his noble and regal personality, his zest for
he still acts like he is in charge, and he hasn’t life and his ability to steal hearts. He has been my
lost his touch when it comes to winning over the trusted companion for many years, and although
hearts of others. he no longer guides me, he is – and will always
There have been quite a few changes to remain – my very special O’Reilly!
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 35INSIGHT
Insight
The windse
of chang
– meet
Shogun
36 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2Pieter van Niekerk with O’Reilly (left) and
Guide Dog, Shogun (right).
W
hen the writing was on the wall December 2018, by means of domiciliary
that O’Reilly was ready for a more training, and Shogun has since grown into a
relaxed lifestyle, I experienced true reflection of his name.
many mixed emotions. Several questions Although Shogun is my sixth Guide Dog, he
crossed my mind… Can’t we clone has his own unique personality and we have a
O’Reilly? Can’t it wait? Will I ever get very different relationship and bond to those I
another dog who could even come close had with any of my previous Guide Dogs.
to O’Reilly? How am I going to cope with Shogun has very big paws to fill, but
a vibrant and lively young dog? However, I am convinced that he will make his
I was pleasantly surprised in October predecessors proud. I am looking forward
2018, when I was presented with another to the adventures that await me with the
fun-loving Guide Dog and companion. support of my new companion, the gorgeous
Shogun, by my side!
True to GDA tradition, my most recent Guide Dog
was named by his Puppy Raiser, Colleen Sprong. * In pre-modern Japan, the shogun
She gave him the very noble name, Shogun. was Japan’s supreme military
Apart from a stud who was named Shogun in the leader, awarded the title by the
early years of GDA, the name also refers to an emperor, and by tradition
interesting part of Japanese history. * a descendant of the
Besides being a very handsome boy, prestigious Minamoto
Shogun possesses fantastic characteristics clan.
and is developing into a fine working dog.
We completed our training as a team during Pieter van Niekerk
2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 37INSIGHT
Insight
I
open my eyes to a blank, dark
slate. I can clearly hear a strong
voice resonating around the
room. I feel movement and
shuffles all around me, but I can’t
see anything. A thousand thoughts
cross my mind. Where am I? What
is happening?
This was my experience when I attended
an awareness training session, which was
facilitated by the College of Orientation and
Mobility at S A Guide-Dogs Association for
the Blind (GDA). It was my first experience
with this type of training, and I am deeply
moved by my own reactions as well as those
of the people who attended it with me.
I joined the session with employees from
a government department. We were all
asked to put on either a blindfold or an
eye simulator. For a short period, our
familiar, comfortable world was disrupted,
forcing us to experience the darkened or
blurred reality of people living with visual
impairment.
DID YOU KNOW?
It costs us R10,730 to offer
three training sessions
per client.
38 | F R I E N D I N H A R N E S S 2019 ISSUE 2c o m i n Oovfetrhe unknowng f e a r Guiding people of the best ways to overcome fear is to turn it As the training session progressed, we were into curiosity. This is a lesson that I will treasure taught the valuable skills that are used to for the rest of my life. guide people who cannot see. Soon the quiet The staff at the College of Orientation and room turned into a mobile, enlivened obstacle Mobility are able to provide Visual Impairment course as we took turns guiding one another Awareness workshops to members of the around the room. With one person blindfolded, public, nurses, old age homes, corporate another had the responsibility of guiding the companies or any other interested parties now visually impaired person around the in Gauteng. For more information, please room, through doorways and narrow spaces, contact Elizabeth Louw at 011 705 3512 or at facing the challenge of helping them back ElizabethL@guidedog.org.za. to their seats safely. With all the action and manoeuvring, the anxious, fearful mood in Tracey Joubert the room turned into one filled with interest, conversation and understanding. It was obvious that this experience had an instant, marked effect that shifted the mood in the room from one of fear to one of care and curiosity. The government employees came into the awareness session confessing their fears of not knowing how to approach their colleagues who are visually impaired. At the end of the session, it was clear to see that they had gained a deeper understanding and compassion, having gone through the experience and training. It was a privilege to experience this palpable shift in awareness and compassion that came about from the training in such a short amount of time. Deeper understanding With such an awareness, the employees’ colleagues who are visually impaired and attended the session could leave feeling confident in knowing that they are supported and would be assisted appropriately by their colleagues. The training reminded me that one 2019 ISSUE 2 FRIEND IN HARNESS | 39
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