Andrea and Addie Wisniewski and Hattie

Addie is 16 years old and was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta or brittle bones. She's had 27 surgeries and over 120 broken bones in her short life. Although she is in terrible pain each day, Addie always has a smile on her face. She just finished her sophomore year of high school with a 3.9 GPA, Peer Leader, member of the National Honor Society and performed in 5 musicals this year. Addie is also involved in 4H and dances with the School of Dancing Wheels in Cleveland.

Several years ago, Addie approached us about a service dog. Since she uses a power wheelchair all the time and does not walk, she wanted to become more independent. We were lucky enough to find Canine Companions for Independence in Delaware OH. After an extensive process, we were approved for a service dog for Addie.

In February 2015, Addie was paired with a yellow lab named Hattie. It was love at first site. Hattie is perfect for our busy family. In the morning, when Addie is trying to get ready for school or for the day, Hattie is right there helping to pick up dropped items on the bathroom floor. After school at home, Hattie helps Addie open doors, pick up dropped items, tug her book bag and assist with carrying small items. At night, after a long day, Hattie is there to snuggle and be a source of comfort to Addie.  

Since Addie and Hattie became a team, Addie has had to take very little narcotic pain medication at the end of a long day. Hattie is so comforting to Addie, that just lying in bed and petting her makes Addie feel so much better. That's the biggest measurable difference we have seen in these last few months. In addition, the companionship and friendship the two have developed is remarkable. Hattie anticipates Addie’s wants and needs. Addie loves her so much. Addie life is so much richer since Hattie arrived. We look forward to many more years of companionship for both of them.