Hi everyone.  

My names Darren Bartley but most call me Daz. I have a rear disability called arthrogryposis . This means I have minimal use of my arms and legs. I live on a small island called the Isle of Man. Some of you may or may not no. the Iom doesn't cater very well for the disabled. Especially if they want to live independently. I'm one of the few lucky ones. I have a commissions (council) flat in the community. I love being independent especially now I have my amazing best friend Yvie.  

I can't say that my life before Yvie was horrible because it wasn't. I have always been full of life and i never let my disability get to me. I always tried my hardest to achieve what I could. I'm quite a stubborn bloke really (as most men are). I never admitted defeat. I Think it's a pride thing. Sometimes though, I had to admit defeat as it just wasn't possible. I used to get really frustrated to the point I could scream. It was little things like dropped items. Doing my  own laundry, getting post etc.  

The day I met Yvie on partnership day I knew my life was going to get a lot easier.  

There was a lot to learn and a lot to take in.  

The first few weeks after Yvies trainer Laura had left my home, I felt like me and Yvie were getting on great. A lot of play and a lot of bonding. I feel we connected together really quickly. (Or she just wanted biscuits) either way I was happy. I've never come across such a loyal dog like Yvie. I have had dogs all my life but never had one that I can call my own.  

The best thing I love about Yvie is the way she looks directly into your eyes. She is constantly wanting to please. I don't think their has been a day yet where she hasn't literally made me laugh out loud. I never knew a dog had so many facial expressions.  

Yvie has given me a reason to get out in the day. Infact. Since having her  there has only been 2 days where we haven't been out due to weather. When the weathers not looking so good, we spend those days training and keeping ontop of things. I have taught her to put rubbish in the bin which is a great help for me.  

I'm working on her assisting me to bed at night so I will be able to go when ever I want. Not when I'm told.  That is my ultimate goal.  

I feel that our bond has grown so strong these past few months, especially this month. Here is why 

I fell out of my chair at home (Which never happens). I landed on my back on the kitchen floor. Yvie came running over to me with her teddy in her mouth checking I was ok. She started licking my face all over and crying slightly. Once my pain had eased a little. I asked her to get the phone. She did this without fail. She dropped it in front of my face so I could call for help. It's like she knew my arms don't work. She stayed laying by my side until the paramedics arrived. But in the meantime. She brought me every toy she owned. Even my cigarette packet. At that point I giggled and couldn't stop. She obviously thought. Dads having a crisis better get him his cigarettes. It's the little things like that, that make me love her even more by everyday that comes.  

Yvie is truly an amazing companion and best friend. I wouldn't change her for the world.

I have to thank CPs big time for changing my life for the better. You guys now have a huge place in my heart. I have met some truly inspiring people through CPs. I see you all as my second family. I think you all need medals for the work and time you put into this charity to help disabled people like me live a happy, fulfilling life.