Morgan and Tomba

Visions of an assistance dog helping Morgan were in the minds of Tery and Jean, Morgan’s parents, for many years due to their daughter’s love of animals, but lots of operations, hospital stays, doctor’s visits and therapy appointments to cure her seizure disorders consumed their days.  Surgery left her with paralysis of her right side.

 

Then in 2002, Morgan regained use of her right leg, but use of her right hand and arm could not be recovered.  Morgan was always left handed, so she adapted to her new realities with her

usual persistence and optimism.  Neurosurgeons gave the word that no further surgery could

help to control Morgan’s partial seizures.  Thus, assistance dog research began and quickly led us

to CCI.  In June 2006 at the Northeast Region, 16-year-old Morgan was masterfully matched by

 CCI professional trainers with the life-changing Tomba.

 

“This medically compromised young lady is fortunate to have many great doctors, hospitals,

therapists and teachers - but the greatest intervention of all, making a positive difference in every single day, has been Tomba.  The quality of Morgan’s life and her level of independence have skyrocketed since the team was paired”  says Jean and Terry.

 

Tomba helps Morgan by picking up dropped objects, opening and closing the refrigerator and other doors, opening dresser drawers, carrying packages and picking up laundry and putting it in the hamper.  Morgan’s family says Tomba is the ultimate therapist – qualified in many different specialties.  “Speech is difficult for Morgan, but so much easier when the chat is about Tomba and CCI. Remembering daily tasks is difficult for Morgan, but Tomba’s presence has instilled routine.  Exercise is also a challenge, but jogging with Tomba and taking agility classes at St. Hubert’s dog training school is nothing but fun” says Morgan’s Mom.  The “team” was doing so well, that when Morgan turned 18 in 2008, she passed public access tests at CCI which gave Morgan the right to go out with Tomba without a facilitator being present (18 is the minimum age for such tests). Motivated by her success with Tomba, she met with her high school principal and was given permission to bring Tomba to school every day. Morgan’s high school is believed to be the first in NJ to allow the presence of an accredited service dog team.  Giving demonstrations at her local animal shelter has turned Morgan into a capable public speaker and young lady with extraordinary confidence and independence. With a big smile Morgan shares, “I used to be shy, now I’m much more confident.”  Tomba takes it all in stride with his ever present smile and dignity.

Many thanks to the following dogs and volunteers who

  made our marvelous story possible

 

Tomba’s sire and dam are Imman and Neffa.

              The breeder-caretaker of Tomba’s litter was Maureen Butler and family

           His puppy raisers were Pat and Lee McLaughlin from Virginia