A note from.Tami

Six years ago on May 14th, I started my job as Forrest’s caregiver.  As I headed into work that first day, a bundle of nerves and excitement, I never anticipated the journey I was about to embark on.  Although I was full of hopes and dreams for Forrest’s recovery, there were so many things I never could have imagined.  I never imagined hearing his first words after over a year of silence.  I never imagined seeing his first unassisted steps.  I never imagined seeing him graduate high school with a standard diploma.  I never imagined having my heart stolen by a service dog, the brother I would find in Austin, the deep connection that would grow with the family, falling in love with a community, and the bond I would form with Forrest.  I have always told Forrest that I would know I did my job when he didn’t need me anymore.  Well, 44, as we prepare for you to head off to college this fall, we are almost to that point.  You have soared beyond my wildest hopes and expectations.  So today, on what is most likely my last anniversary of this amazing job, I say to Forrest, Kent, Rae and Austin (and Tom, who led me here), thank you.  Thank you for changing my life.

- Tami