Sean and Lucas’ story 

In 2007, not long after meeting his wife Josie, Sean from Hampshire began to experience worrying symptoms. After a series of tests, he was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a condition that would gradually affect every aspect of his life. 

“I went from walking to using crutches and then eventually a wheelchair,” Sean recalls. “Over the last 18 years, I’ve slowly deteriorated.” As his condition progressed, Sean became increasingly dependent on Josie and their two young daughters, Elsie and Mimi. 

“I couldn’t go outside at all without Josie, which left me feeling isolated,” he says. “I also had to rely on Elsie and Mimi to pick things up when I dropped them. As a dad, I should have been helping them, not the other way around. It was frustrating and humiliating.” 

For Josie, the impact on her life and independence was huge. She said: “I couldn’t leave the house because Sean needed someone with him at all times. It affected every part of our lives.” 

A new beginning with Lucas 

Knowing they needed help, the family reached out to Canine Partners. In 2018, Sean was partnered with Lucas, a yellow Labrador X Golden Retriever. From the very first moment they met, everything began to change. “Seeing his wagging tail and happy face for the first time gave me hope. He helped me see a positive future and gave me a reason to be involved in life again,” Sean recalls. 

Lucas quickly became more than Sean’s support – he became a part of the family. By fetching items, opening doors, and helping with daily tasks, he gives Sean the independence he needs to live life on his own terms. But the biggest impact has been on Sean’s ability to be present for his family again. 

“Lucas will take things to Josie or the girls,” Sean explains. “Quite often, the girls forget things downstairs at bedtime. Before, there wasn’t much I could do to help, but now I can ask Lucas to take it. It makes me feel great to be able to do something for them again.” 

Impact on family life 

Elsie (13) and Mimi (10) have noticed the changes too. Elsie said: “Before Daddy had Lucas, he used to sleep a lot. But now he’s awake more, much happier and spends more time with us. We love going on walks with him and playing with Lucas.” 

Josie added, “The joy Lucas has brought has changed all our lives for the better. Without him, I honestly don’t think Sean would be here today.” 

With Lucas by his side, Sean now has an active role in his children’s lives, doing things that once felt impossible. For Josie, it brings peace of mind and for Elsie and Mimi, it means having their dad back. Now, they can focus on what truly matters – enjoying life together as a family.