Coda the wonder dog

Many Gold Coasters will recognise assistance dog Echo in the photo below.  He has spent the last six and a half years enabling Gail to be the community champion that she is. Gail is used to feeling invisible whilst out and about when her magnificent support dog gets all the attention and he really is a super star. He can pull the wheelchair, pick up items, open cupboards and brace when Gail leans on him to transfer from the chair. He even pays for groceries (lucky Australian dollars are slobber proof!). After such dedicated service, the next few years are going to be all about him enjoying his retirement living with Gail's family. 


This photograph was taken when Gail successfully lobbied Council for improved wheelchair access in her community. It is typical of Gail to be out there, giving her time and amazing energy to others. She was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1997 and has since raised much needed funds for research and supporting others. She is an active Board Member for Gold Coast Disability Advocacy and speaks at conferences and events on behalf of Mobility Assistance Dogs Trust - whom she also fundraises for. All this and being the lynch pin of her beautiful family which now includes a brand new Grandson. 

While Echo is looking forward to retirement, it is a long way off for Gail. For her to carry on with her valuable work and maintain the independence that is so important to her Gail must travel to New Zealand to meet and commence training with Coda the Wonder Dog. As a person that does so much for others and with such warmth and love, I think it is her turn to be given a helping hand. She has to find NZ$4000 to cover the costs and I am hoping that the community that she loves so much is able to help. Please donate any amount. Every single dollar will mean so much to Gail. Any funds received over the target will be donated to Mobility Assistance Dogs Trust. Thank you.