A Blind Young Woman, Connie David, Gets her First Guide Dog
Written: May 13 '02 (Updated Nov 06 '06)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: A fascinating look at the entire process of raising, training and getting a guide dog.
Cons: NONE
The Bottom Line: From the cover ... "true story of a young woman who learns to "see" for the first time -- through the eyes of her faithful guide dog".
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| jiastar's Full Review: Connie'S New Eyes |
Learn how Guide Dogs are Trained and their owners learn to use them
During a recent move I came across a box of books that I've had since my youth. In order the determine which would be suitable for my 7 year old's bookshelf I reread them and by doing so rediscovered some long lost friends from my childhood. A 1976 edition of Connie's New Eyes was one of the books in that box. From my own inscription inside this was a book that I was still reading in 6th grade, though it would be appropriate for those as young as 3rd or 4th grade.
The main characters
Connie David
Born prematurely, she lost her vision due to the oxygen used to save her life. At the time physicians were not aware of how damaging excessive levels of oxygen could be for infants. Since reading a book about guide dogs in the 7th grade, she has been determined to have one of her own. Now she is 22, a college graduate and starting a full time teaching position come fall.
Blythe
A lovely golden retriever, she has been raised by a 4-H volunteer(15 year old Allison Gooding) from the age of 2 mos. until she was 1 year old, and then intensively trained for an additional 3 mos. This has been for the sole purpose of having her be a new guide dog.
Photographs
The book is illustrated with 91 black and white photographs which range from showing Blythe's puppyhood and training, to Connie's training, to their new life together.
Considering the book is a slim 122 pages, this is a remarkable amount of pictures. They do not distract at all from the story, but only serve to enhance the overall experience. You truly bond with all the people as not only do you know they are real, but you've seen them in several aspects of their lives.
The story
The story opens with Blythe as a puppy living with the Gooding family. Young Allison has to not only housebreak and leash train her, she must teach her basic obedience. She must expose her to other animals, public places, and crowds so Blythe can learn to never be distracted by strange people or surroundings.
Before Allison knows it, 10 mos have passed and it is May and time to return Blythe to the Seeing Eye organization, and in turn recieve a new puppy for training.
In the meantime, Connie is at the Seeing Eye organization as well learning the skills she will need to let a dog act as her eyes. She needs not only to learn the appropriate commands, but how to be guided by the pulling of a dog on harness, and how to relax and trust an animal with her safety.
In the beginning, Connie walks with an instructor who guides her with a practice harness. It is not until she meets Blythe, who has been matched with her based on disposition, build, and gait, that Connie actually walks with a dog as her guide. Then together they not only get to know one another but, with an instructor looking on, start exploring the world as a team.
Finally training is over and Connie and Blythe return home as Connie resumes her life not only with a new job but a new friend by her side. The remainder of the story shares the work she does with the special needs students she teaches, her life home with her family, and some unexpected challenges.
The real Connie David
she began teaching in the Public School system in 1985
as a teacher she has worked with grade levels from Kindergarten through 12th grade
she was awarded Teacher of Distinction by the Minnesota Association for Childhood Education International in 1997
she was named Golden Apple Achiever by Ashland Oils prestigious Education Committee in 1995
she is presently employed as a financial representative with Primerica Financial Services
in 2005 she resigned as the president of BFLAG (blind friends of gays and lesbians) "due to some health and work-related issues"
Comments
This book is such a great teaching tool for kids on so many levels.
Not only does it expose them to someone living with a disability, specifically the sight impaired. We are also exposed to the tools the blind use such as canes, braille, relief maps, etc.
It teaches them about the importance of volunteerism, of doing for others with no reward. It shows how even the largest obstacles can be overcome.
And it, obviously, explains the entire process of guide dog training and ownership.
It is a quick and easy read. The story could easily have been depressing but instead it is incredibly uplifting.
This is a wonderful book for any child.
For more information about Seeing Eye Dogs:
http://www.seeingeye.org/
Recommended:
Yes
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jiastar
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