Hi! I am David Sprout from Webster, NY.  I am 29 years old and wheelchair bound.  In 2006 I was diagnosed with a thoracic spinal cord tumor.  Through extensive back surgeries, I was left a quadriplegic.  I received intensive physical therapy which helped increase the strength in my arms and legs.  I needed assistance from visiting nurses, therapists and my incredible family.  There were times and situations that were really challenging and frustrating for me.  Activities I used to do without a second thought suddenly required much more forethought and physical effort.
     I was very excited when I learned about Canine Helpers and the opportunity to regain some of my independence with a Service Dog.  Three qualified canine candidates were brought to my home to meet me.  Levi, a handsome, strong black Lab was the right match for me.  He was custom trained for my special needs, while my family and friends helped me with fundraising to help cover the cost. 

Levi and I have become a great working team.  Levi picks up things I drop, which is a great help because it is very painful in my lower back to bend down.  He gets my cell phone from any place in my house when I need it, in times of emergency, or when I forget where I put it.  He can open my front door and close it when we go outside, and open my fridge and get bottles of water for me when I am in bed.  If I ever need help, I can have Levi get my cell phone for me or bark for the neighbors. 

     Levi is a great companion since I live alone.  He keeps me active and mentally alert.  He has also been great for physical therapy.  Caring for and playing with him makes me use my hands and arms more than ever, and it is helping build up strength and use that I had lost.

     I want to thank Canine Helpers and everybody that has donated and helped fundraise for bringing Levi and I together.  You have helped give me part of my life back!