I have been fundraising for Canine Partners over the last two years. I really want to raise £5000 so I can name a puppy, and cover all the costs of its training and partnership for the first year. 

I started by making cookies and selling them to raise money. Then I branched out and made dog biscuits too. My sister went busking one Christmas and raised lots of money that way. I have also made and sold jewellery, dog toys and held a teddy sale. In 2019 our family trained a potential partner puppy for 14 months, which was really enjoyable. Unfortunately he "ate too many non-food items" - and had to be homed as a pet instead.

Right now, I am planning to spend a week in a wheelchair myself. This will be a big challenge because I am able bodied - and usually very active. It will be a great way to understand some of the challenges of being a wheelchair user though - sadly I won't have an assistance dog to help me!! The first challenge will be carrying my mattress downstairs - but I'll definitely do that before I start in the wheelchair. 

I am planning other fundraising events too, I won't stop until I reach my target of £5000 - which is what its costs to get a puppy through the first year of training.

I really appreciate any donations you make to my appeal.

I have included some Canine Partners information below for you to read if you like.

From Canine Partners: Our amazing dogs bring a greater independence and quality of life to their partners, offering security, companionship, and practical help with everyday household tasks. They are trained to help with tasks such as opening and closing doors, unloading the washing machine, picking up dropped items, pressing buttons and switches and fetching help in an emergency. Our life-transforming dogs also provide psychological and social benefits including increased independence, confidence, social interaction and self-esteem.