Our client Jeri is an Army veteran who experiences post-traumatic stress related to her military service. Here she shares in her own words her healing journey with us.
Prior to Operation Freedom Paws, I had tried various therapeutic modalities with some success; however, I was merely surviving and desperately wanted to thrive. Resistant at frst, I lent myself to the process. I’d grown weary of the suicidal thoughts and self-imposed limitations.
I applied in November 2019 and was matched with Curly in March 2020. When introduced to this German Shepherd/Great Pyrenees mix, I was taken aback by not only his size but the fact that German Shepherds had terrified me. I momentarily felt as if a mistake had been made. Certainly, I would have been matched with a dog no more than 15 pounds. So glad that they knew better than me. Mary often reminded us, “You don’t get the dog you want. You get the dog you need.”
COVID-19 restrictions had become a new reality, but I found I was more social than ever with training opportunities and the attention Curly was getting. Curly went to work with me each day and our relationship developed. I learned to become less shy and embrace that people were generally nice, trustworthy, and curious.
During those initial weeks and months of self-doubt, I was frequently reminded by the support team to trust myself and not to give up. My therapist at OFP would often say, “Giving up is not an option.” I carry those words with me each day.
Looking back, I can’t believe I kept pushing through, and am exceptionally proud of myself for not yielding to the familiar limiting fear and uncertainty. Even more significant and rewarding than any of my past accomplishments was the day Curly and I graduated, April 8, 2021. Without question, it was my happiest moment. We did it! And he was officially mine.
Curly is a wonderful dog, as is this organization that rescued him. He is the love of my life and I am still learning from him daily. He is so intelligent, gentle, funny, and affectionate. He makes my life full with his unyielding love, acceptance, protection, and joy. He keeps me on track with alerts when I “check out” or when my body chemistry is off.
On March 30, 2021, at no cost to me Mary afforded me an additional source of recovery, the Stellate Ganglion Block. This is a procedure that has evidence to support an improved quality of life and reduction of symptoms for people with post-traumatic stress. On our drive home from the procedure (yes, Mary was with me the entire time!) I have a vivid memory of the colors of the trees, the sky, and a feeling of comfort. It was and is still the case today as if the sunglasses had come off and the world was brighter and more inviting. I’m blown away by the reduction in anxiety, increased attention to detail, and heightened ability to learn and problem solve.
Currently, I’m nearly completely present and engaged in life. I started working full-time and I’m pursuing an exciting new medical skill set. What a journey this has been! During those inevitable moments of self-doubt, I look at Curly and am reminded that pushing past fear has tremendously rewarding results.
It goes without saying that I’m beyond grateful for the team who made this lifetime milestone a reality. Dyan, Mary, Martha, Janet, Dave, Steve, Nancy, the mentor-trainers, and the sponsors and donors who make this process possible, thank you. A special thank you also to Mary for your constant love and support. Thank you for providing everything I needed in order to thrive.
With love and light,
Jeri