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Barbara Techel is the author of the multi-award winning Frankie, the Walk ‘N Roll Dog book series. When her dachshund, Frankie, suffered a spinal injury, Barbara had her custom-fitted for a wheelchair. Frankie persevered, and Barbara realized the beautiful opportunity she had to share Frankie and give others hope and inspiration to be the best they can be. Along with sharing Frankie’s story with children, Barbara and Frankie routinely volunteer as a therapy dog team at a local hospital, senior assisted facility, and hospice community, spreading joy wherever they go.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Friends Forever: Special Needs Boy and Special Needs Dog

It is a day my mom and  I will remember as pure joy for as long as I live...

Two years ago, a 3-year old little boy named Jackson was having a hard time accepting wearing a night brace on his leg because of a form of Cerebral Palsy he has. His mom found my book, "Frankie the Walk 'N Roll Dog" and read it to him.  Almost immediately he saw the connection and said, "I have to wear my brace like Frankie!" He now refers to his brace as his "Frankie brace."

He just turned five and his mom planned a birthday party for him. When she asked who he wanted to invite he said, "Barb and Frankie."  Now keep in mind, my mom and I met him when he was three, then again a year ago, but have only been with him twice. Jackson and I have this amazing connection.


Jackson lives near Barrington, IL which is roughly a 3-hour trip from our home in Elkhart Lake, but when a darling little 5-year old special little boy makes such a request, it is hard to say no.  Besides, how often does one turn five?!?!  The best part is his mom decided to make it a surprise... and indeed it was.

Jackson's mom, Dawn blind-folded him so he couldn't see me come in (decked out in a birthday hat I must add!).  When he and his mom knelt down, Dawn put Jackson's hand on my head and said, "Who is this?"  Jackson pet my head and said, "Frankie!"  He then could not get his blind-fold off fast enough to see me forever friend!


So in pictures and video the wonderful event...









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2 comments:

Ginger Dupre said...

They are so cute together! What a sweet surprise!

Hannalei said...

Oh this needed a tissue warning. I just love their picture together. Frankie you rawk sweetums.