Before Angel* came into my life, I was in the throes of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I suffered panic attacks daily, dreaded leaving my house, and was physically ill much of the time. I cringed at having to perform simple, daily tasks such as getting groceries, going to the post office, or even walking into the break room at work. I had low self-esteem and little confidence. My world was small and getting smaller.

It's been over a year now and I'm no longer hyper-vigilant, triple checking that my doors are locked or obsessing over a car following me. I calmly walk through the checkout line at the grocery store without sweating, feeling trapped, and building up tension until my stomach is in knots and I'm having trouble breathing. I haven't woken myself up by the sound of my own screams in months. The weight of dread and self-doubt is lifting. I don't jump at the sound of a car backfiring or an ambulance driving by. Negative thoughts are less frequent. Belief and confidence in myself are being restored.

The most difficult part of our training has been going to public places. I learned that, as my anxiety escalates, so does Angel's. She is very sensitive and in tune with my emotions. She gets an upset stomach right along with me.

I've learned that Angel consoles me, and she needs consoling as well. We work together and support each other. There is mutual love, trust, and respect. I say what I mean; I mean what I say. I consistently follow through with my commands, such as "go to your bed," or simply "sit." She keeps in a "stay" position until I release her to eat her meal. And we play. Oh, do we play! We play fetch by tag-teaming tennis balls. She brings one to me, drops it like a hot potato, and I immediately throw one that's already in the Chuck-It. That's a hoot.

Angel has taught me so much.
I believe in myself.
There are truly good people in this world.
Have patience.
Keep an open mind.
Watch and listen.
Love and be loved.

*Names have been changed