Blind Physiotherapist Appeals For Help To Import Guide Dog After Failing To Find One In Malta
Andrew Mark George is a 42-year-old British physiotherapist living in Malta, who is seeking assistance to raise funds for a new guide dog.
Diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a condition causing blindness, George lost his beloved guide dog Briar in 2021. Since then, he has been facing challenges finding a new guide dog in Malta.
Retinitis Pigmentosa is an eye disease that progressively destroys the retina, leading to vision loss. At the age of three, George was diagnosed with this condition, and as he grew older, his vision deteriorated rapidly, leaving him legally blind in his 20s.
In the pursuit of independence, George received his first guide dog, Briar, from the UK Guide Dogs organisation.
In 2021, George faced an immense tragedy when his beloved guide dog Briar passed away unexpectedly due to an underlying heart condition. The loss was deeply felt, as the bond between a guide dog and their owner is indescribable, akin to a true partnership and connection that goes beyond words.
“Since then I have been striving tirelessly for the past 17 months to acquire a new guide dog locally in Malta but regrettably, I have been met with numerous obstacles and no viable solutions have emerged,” George lamented.
Seeking assistance, George reached out to the International Guide Dogs Federation (IGDF), which connected him with international contacts. One training school in Norway, understanding the unique predicament George faced, extended a helping hand and offered to provide a new guide dog.
George’s heartfelt plea for financial help now stands as an opportunity for him to regain mobility and independence with the aid of a professionally trained guide dog.
The cost of training a guide dog is approximately £40,000 due to the extensive training required, which usually spans around 1.5 years. Additionally, George will need to attend the training school in Norway for intensive training with the dog to ensure safe and independent use.
George humbly requests any financial support to make this life-changing opportunity possible. All funds raised will go directly to the guide dog training school in Norway. Every contribution will be used to cover the costs of training, transportation, and related expenses.
By contributing to George’s cause, individuals have the opportunity to become a beacon of hope for him and his family. With your help, George can once again experience the freedom and confidence that a guide dog provides, allowing him to continue making a positive impact in the lives of others as a dedicated physiotherapist.
George’s desire to regain his mobility and independence demonstrates the transformative power of a professionally trained guide dog.
Through the collective generosity and support of individuals, George can embrace a new adventure and create a brighter future for himself and his young family.
Help George regain his independence by donating here.
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