A Sudbury youth with severe hearing loss has a new puppy to play with thanks to the Shine Foundation.
The Shine organization, dedicated to helping young people with physical disabilities between the ages of 11 and 21, recently came to the assistance of 12-year-old Connor, who was described as a quiet fellow "who keeps his feelings and interests to himself.”
It was last year that Connor suffered the loss of his family dog. It was described as a challenging time for the boy who was missing the companion he could confide in.
Things changed last month. The Shine Foundation stepped up and acquired a new puppy for Connor, said a news release.
Connor and his mom recently drove down to the kennel located just north of Kitchener to meet their new family member and celebrate Connor’s dream-come-true alongside Shine Foundation staff and supporters.
He spent a few hours playing and bonding with Panda - his new pup - before leaving for the long drive back home, said a news release from the organization.
Connor's mom Jessica Larence
"Connor was so excited for Panda he could not sleep the week before. He was so happy to finally meet her and pet her. We knew for about a year that we would be getting a puppy, just not when. Finally his turn came and he got his choice of the litter! He chose her because wanted a girl and he liked all her markings especially on her chest," she said.
The boy and his new companion are pretty well inseparable now, said Jessica.
"Panda took to Connor the moment they met. She was passed to him and when he put her down she wouldn't leave her side. They got to spend the March break bonding. The first night Panda cried too much when we put her in the kennel so Connor slept with her that night and the next night. The third night he got in the kennel with her until she fell asleep. She's been using her kennel without crying since. Everyone is so excited to have a new pet in the home."
"The result of Shine Experiences like Connor’s often includes an increase in confidence, resilience, and a positive outlook that will fuel them through life’s challenges. Connor’s new companion will support his emotional development, mental health, and level of responsibility as he grows into adolescence," said the release.
The Shine Foundation said it works to change the lives of young people living with severe physical disabilities, across Canada.
The organization serves young people aged 11-21, helping them build confidence, independence and optimism to boost their mental health and future goals, said a news release.
Shine said its vision is that every Shine recipient lives their dream.
Jennifer Stead, a Shine spokesperson, said the foundation is able to choose recipients by working with referral partners across every province, who are certified with Shine, to refer qualified young people living with severe physical disabilities.
