Embracing Life’s Challenges: Carrie’s Journey with Transverse Myelitis and Her Canine Companion, Twix

Carrie is a testament to resilience and determination. From contracting a rare virus at a young age to becoming a Paralympic athlete and occupational therapist, her story is one of overcoming obstacles and redefining possibilities.

A Life Altered by Transverse Myelitis

The day after her first birthday, Carrie’s life took an unexpected turn. She contracted transverse myelitis, a rare virus causing inflammation of the spinal cord. “It’s kind of like getting a spinal cord injury,” Carrie explains, “except rather than an accident, it was a virus.” The illness left her paralyzed from the chest down, with limited leg movement and partial hand weakness.

Despite these challenges, Carrie developed an unshakable belief in her abilities. “I really believe I can do anything that everybody else does,” she says. “I might just do it a little differently.”

Adapting and Excelling

Carrie’s can-do attitude propelled her to find innovative ways to navigate daily life. She drives a car using hand controls for the gas and brake pedals. Professionally, she became an occupational therapist and now works at Washington University, where she engages in teaching and research. Her expertise in assistive technology not only aids her in her personal life but also allows her to educate future therapists.

But Carrie’s ambitions didn’t stop there. She is a member of the U.S. Paralympic Track and Field Team, with hopes of competing in the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Her athletic pursuits demonstrate her dedication to pushing boundaries and inspiring others.

The Challenges of Daily Life

Living with limited hand function presents daily hurdles. Simple tasks like picking up dropped items can be time-consuming and physically taxing. “When I drop things on the ground, it takes me quite a bit of time to get it back up,” Carrie shares. Repeated bending exacerbates her back pain, making these small incidents significant obstacles.

A New Companion: Meeting Twix

Understanding the potential benefits of a service dog, Carrie connected with CHAMP Assistance Dogs, an organization dedicated to placing service dogs with individuals who have disabilities. CHAMP focuses on empowering people by enhancing their independence through canine assistance.

“Every dog has their own personality, and every person we work with is an individual,” says Nola, a representative from CHAMP. Recognizing Carrie’s active lifestyle, they sought a dog with energy and eagerness to match.

One day, CHAMP visited Carrie for what she thought was a routine evaluation. To her surprise, they introduced her to Twix, a golden retriever with a friendly demeanor. “When the dog walked in, I was like, ‘That is an awesome dog,'” Carrie recalls. Twix immediately bonded with her, sitting by her wheelchair and showcasing a natural connection.

Twix was part of a litter born on Halloween, all named after candies—fitting for a dog as sweet as her namesake. The partnership was a perfect match.

Building a Partnership

Integrating Twix into her life required patience and learning. “Twix is fully trained and she’s great. It was me that they had to train,” Carrie admits. She had to familiarize herself with specific commands and routines to ensure effective communication with Twix.

Now, Twix accompanies Carrie everywhere. The dog’s assistance has been transformative:

• Retrieving Dropped Items: Twix picks up keys, phones, laundry, and shoes, saving Carrie time and physical strain.
• Emergency Assistance: There’s a dedicated “911 phone” on the ground at Carrie’s home. If needed, Twix can bring the phone to her.
• Navigating Doors: Twix helps open and hold heavy doors, a task that was previously challenging due to Carrie’s limited hand strength.
• Enhanced Security: Having Twix by her side gives Carrie a sense of safety. “I feel like somebody’s less likely to mess with me if I’m with a dog,” she notes.
  
  
  

One memorable incident highlights Twix’s impact. After dropping her phone under her car in an empty parking lot, Carrie faced the daunting task of retrieving it. Twix sprang into action, crawling under the car to fetch the phone. “That was about a 30-second thing where it could have been a 30-minute ordeal,” Carrie recalls gratefully.

The Support of CHAMP

CHAMP’s commitment didn’t end with Twix’s placement. They provided ongoing support, helping Carrie adapt equipment to her needs. When she struggled with fastening Twix’s vest, they modified it with Velcro and loops for easier handling.

“Champ continually problem-solves with me and tries to make things right,” Carrie says. Their dedication has made the integration of Twix into her life seamless and supportive.

Looking Ahead

With Twix by her side, Carrie’s daily life has improved significantly. “She just makes things easier,” Carrie affirms. “At the end of the day, I have less pain.”

Carrie’s journey is a powerful reminder that limitations can be transformed into new pathways. Her story inspires others to embrace challenges with creativity and determination.

Learn More About CHAMP

If you’re interested in learning more about CHAMP Assistance Dogs or supporting their mission, visit their website at www.champdogs.org.

Support Paralympic Athletes

Cheer on athletes like Carrie by following the U.S. Paralympic Team and supporting adaptive sports programs.

Carrie’s story illustrates the profound impact that determination, innovation, and the right support can have on one’s life. She continues to break barriers and redefine what’s possible, one goal at a time.