Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog
Who Inspired Thousands Passes Away
Elkhart Lake WI., June 2012
The beloved dachshund of author Barbara Techel and husband,
John, as well as thousands of fans around the world, passed away peacefully in
the loving arms of Barbara on June 21, 2012. She was two months shy of her
thirteenth birthday.
Frankie suffered a spinal injury over six years ago and was
fitted with a dog wheelchair. Though
devastating at first to the Techel’s,
Barbara realized the beautiful opportunity she was being given to help
others through Frankie’s example. She and Frankie have taken their inspiring
message of believing in yourself and staying positive throughout life’s
challenges to classrooms and libraries and through their work as a volunteer certified
therapy dog team since 2008. They made over 400 appearances in person, as well
as via Skype. They also made over 250 visits with monthly visits to Memorial
hospital, Libby’s House, and Sharon S. Richardson Hospice Community.
Techel’s passion is sharing with others what animals teach
us about living in the moment and enjoying life to the fullest, and encouraging
children to stay positive and make a difference no matter what their obstacles.
Frankie’s story lives on in the books Techel wrote about her, Frankie the Walk ‘N Roll Dog & Frankie
the Walk ‘N Roll Therapy Dog Visits Libby’s House.
Frankie’s legacy will also live on in many ways. One of which is the special garden dedicated
to her at Bookworm Gardens which is a big hit with the many children that visit
each year. Techel is also working on a
special day which will be in Frankie’s honor called, “Walk ‘N Roll Dog Day.”
Not only will it be in memory of Frankie, but it will honor the many dogs
around the world who teach us about perseverance and how a dog can live a long, happy, quality
life in a wheelchair.
Along with “Walk ‘N Roll Dog Day”, a memorial fund has been
set up in Frankie’s name through Eddie’s Wheels where Frankie’s wheelchair was
custom made. Techel said, “Many times
disabled dogs in rescue can be more easily adopted out if someone is interested
in adopting them, but may not have the
funds to pay for a wheelchair. Also,
families in financial need with a dog that needs a wheelchair can be helped
instead of the family having to lose their beloved family member. Disabled animals can live a good life if
given a chance.” To learn more
about the fund you can visit www.joyfulpaws.com.
Through their work, Frankie and Barbara were also able to
help give hope to many whose pets were diagnosed with disc disease like Frankie
had. Techel has talked with people all over the world the past five years
helping guide them after their pet has been diagnosed with disc disease. Techel
said, “I will continue to be available to help whoever I can to educate them
that disc disease is not a death sentence. It is truly one of my greatest joys
to give others hope that their dog can go on to live a quality life.”
Frankie’s last gift to Barbara was her quiet, encouraging
presence as she snoozed contently in her bed as Techel wrote about her journey
the past ten years and all that Frankie has taught her. Through
Frankie’s Eyes: One Woman’s Journey to
Her Authentic Self and the Dog on Wheels Who Led the Way will be released
early 2012.
“My life will never be the same with Frankie gone… but my
life will never be the same for her having been in it. She gave me, as well as
left me, with some amazing gifts… not only me, but her papa, and thousands of
fans.”
Barbara Techel
www.joyfulpaws.combarb@joyfulpaws.com
920-377-1749
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