Affected by 2 successive strokes, Rebecca Pacter, 24, fought to live a normal life, and the adoption of her dog, Bear, opened up the field of possibilities. This musician and science teacher has decided to no longer impose limits on herself. Between running races and cave visits, Rebecca's life is busy, and the bond with her dog offers her real security.
Became visually impaired in high school following 2 strokes, Rebecca continued her schooling and studies while overcoming this visual handicap with which she was learning to live. It was only during her second cycle of studies, just before becoming a professor, that she took the plunge of adopting a dog, a Labrador Retriever 3 years old.
“My life seemed to stop”
Losing my sight at such a young age was a shock for Rebeccawho was to perform with the National Youth Symphony Orchestra at the Carnegie Hall of new York. After a period of astonishment, the young woman decided to move forward. She confides to People : “I just moved on with my life, I didn’t let that stop me, and it’s amazing. I'm grateful to be where I am.”.
Rebecca was even able to make her dream come true and performed at Carnegie Hall.
People
Gain independence
At the end of his first cycle of studies, Rebecca requested an association to be accompanied by a guide dog for the blind. Some time later, she received a phone call announcing the upcoming meeting with Bear.
Already very active, Rebecca gained independence. She states: “Having it has really allowed me to get out of the house a lot more”.
“She is incredible”
Thanks to Bearthis dog who instantly became her accomplice, the young woman regularly visits caves with her students. She does it without fear, and her courage was praised in the school magazine.
Rebecca also participates in races of several kilometers, which she runs perfectly thanks to her dog who regulates her stride.
What are the main qualities of a guide dog?
The dogs that will become guide dogs are spotted very young among their litter. They are then trained to become companions capable of supporting their human partner.
Its primary qualities are:
- Its calm and stability
- Its rigor, particularly when orders are given
- His concentration in all circumstances
- His endurance during long journeys during which he must remain vigilant