My name is Ruth Valencia and I have cerebral palsy.  In 2001, I applied to Canine Support Teams, Inc., for a service dog, and in 2005 I was placed with my first canine partner, Ross.  Ross was a big, tall, beautiful standard poodle who served me faithfully for 10 years.  In January, 2014, Ross had to retire due to medical issues and age.  Because he had served me so well for so many years, I wanted to serve him well and give him a great retirement.

In July, 2015, Ross passed away at the age of 12.  It was a deep loss for me, and I miss him greatly.  I always will.  In addition I have struggled trying to do the tasks he assisted me with for all those years.

Now that Ross has passed, and I have cared for him fully, I feel ready to begin a new relationship and a new life with a successor service dog.  The cost of a fully trained service dog is in the neighborhood of $18,000, but the portion of this cost that I must contribute is $6500.

I appreciate your consideration in helping me raise these funds.  Thank you.