ESSEX –- Wendy Foster, the recipient of a service dog donated by the Essex Rotary Club, will speak at their weekly meeting on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 (6:00 p.m.) at the Essex Yacht Club on 13 Novelty Lane, Essex.
A 26 year veteran pre-school teacher, Essex resident Foster was forced to retire when she became weakened by an undiagnosed neuromuscular disorder. In a cruel twist of fate, Foster’s first service dog became blind. Learning about Foster’s need, the Essex Rotary Club stepped in and purchased Tippy, an 18 month old Labrador retriever trained through NEADS (National Education for Assistance Dog Services) headquartered in Princeton, Massachusetts. Their mission is to provide canine assistance for people who are deaf or have a disability. The dogs become an extension of their handlers and bring them freedom and physical autonomy. Many of the dogs, including Tippy, are trained in prisons by inmates who fiercely compete for the privilege.
Foster will demonstrate how Tippy helps her in all aspects of daily living with an eye toward fall prevention. When the inevitable fall does occur, Tippy snaps to attention and provides a strong back to steady Foster as she lifts herself off the ground.
Accompanied by Tippy, Foster has testified in various legislatures on behalf of the U.S. Pain Foundation on the subject of chronic pain awareness and pharmaceutical discrimination of those in constant pain.




























