Michael Powell and Mobility Assist Dog Zelda By Bill Johnson As a bus driver for Metro Transit and later for Greyhound, Michael Powell experienced the allure of the open road. But seven years ago, his driving career came to a screeching halt when he suffered an on-the-job back injury. Severe back pain, exacerbated by peripheral neuropathy, made it impossible to continue commercial driving. Although he can’t log the miles like he used to, the New Brighton, Minnesota, resident definitely doesn’t sit still, thanks in large part to Zelda, his Can Do Canines Mobility Assist Dog. With Zelda by his side, …
Archives for April 2018
The Biggest Love Bug in the World
Luci Camorani and Mobility Assist Dog Maggie By Amy Verrando As a sophomore at the University of Minnesota (U of M), Luci Camorani leads the typically hectic life of a busy college student. Majoring in genetics, cell biology, and development, Luci has to juggle a challenging course load while also dealing with the difficulties of living with both Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). EDS and POTS cause Luci to have trouble regulating her blood pressure, specifically when standing up or bending over, which can cause her to become lightheaded and dizzy, resulting in a fall. “Standing up …
A Bright and Independent Future
Alex Cracraft and Autism Assist Dog Comet By Joy Miller For eight years, Alex Cracraft of Fridley, Minnesota, and his Autism Assist Dog, Windy were an awe-inspiring team everywhere they went. With Windy’s love and support, Alex has become more confident and independent—an outcome which has thrilled his parents, Rich and Laura. Alex and Windy teamed up after the Cracraft family learned about Can Do Canines at an Autism Society Skills session. Alex was eight years old and in second grade. Now a junior in high school, Windy gratefully retired from active partnering with Alex in December of 2016. At …