STEP BY STEP 

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CODY'S STORY
 (Excerpt from newsletter article: by Lauri Morataya)

   Evidence of summer is all around us as we see youngsters riding bikes, playing baseball, chasing each other with water guns, or leisurely taking a walk with a friend. This is a common sight, and also one that many take for granted. One of the most incredible members of Dreamworkers, Inc. is a youg girl named Cody, who does not take any of these activities for granted. Cody was born with Cerebal Palsy and had surgery on both hips. After being bound to a wheelchair since her surgery in April, Cody took her first steps with assistance on June 14th.
 

  Cody receives a visit with Dreamworker dog, Sasha.

   Cody has been working hard to walk in preparation for her service dog. As it finishes foundation training, Cody is breaking sweat preparing for him. With the use of Luci and Happy(therapy dogs trained to help make the transition to Service Dog) Cody practices using the dog for assistance in transition from the chair to her feet. She walks with the dog giving commands like "forward", "left", "right", "slow", and "find the chair". The dog then "braces" as Cody returns to sitting once her legs are tired. After only one week from walking with assistance from her mom, Cody walked alone with the assistance of Luci. Cody has learned also that if she stumbles, she can use the dog for support and will not fall to the ground.

   Cody has an amazing family whose love and support for her shine. Their love, determination, and commitment are truly an inspiration.