“She’s always by my side and has quickly become part of everything I do.”
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a condition that affects the brain and spinal cord, impacting how the body moves and functions. For many people, it can make everyday tasks more challenging over time.
Around 20% of the people we support are living with MS. Every day, our dogs bring confidence and independence, love and companionship, reducing reliance on carers and giving people the freedom to live life their own way.
Helen’s story
Helen lives with Cerebral Palsy and Secondary Progressive MS. For much of her life, she was independent – living on her own, working, and managing day-to-day life.
When she was diagnosed with MS in 2010, things began to change. She made the decision to retire earlier than planned, and over time began using a wheelchair full time.
As her condition progressed, everyday life became more difficult.
Simple things like picking items up in shops became frustrating and time-consuming. “I’d have to wait for someone to pass so I could ask them to pick it up for me.”
Helen began to think about how she could continue to do as much as possible for herself. After seeing Canine Partners on television, she decided to find out more – and soon made the decision to apply.
“I drop things all the time, quite often dropping the same thing over and over again.”
Meeting Amber
In 2012, Helen was matched with her first Canine Partner, Amber. “When I met Amber for the first time, I absolutely fell in love with her. I’ve loved her from day one.”
Amber quickly became an essential part of Helen’s everyday life. Support her both in and outside of the home, she provided practical support with everyday tasks, enabling Helen to be more independent.
Amber could retrieve items, open doors, and even bring Helen’s handbag downstairs each morning. She also provided reassurance and safety, pressing an emergency button and barking for help when needed. “It’s those little things that help me so much.”
Alongside the practical support, Amber brought constant companionship. “She was always there beside me, making me feel better when I was feeling down and keeping me connected to the world.”
“Anything I needed Amber to do; she was always ready and willing to do for me. She’s brought such independence to my life.”
Continuing the journey
In 2025, after Amber retired, Helen was partnered with her successor Canine Partner, Kara, a black Labrador cross Golden Retriever.
Now approaching their first year together, Kara has already made a real difference. Affectionately known as ‘Miss Black Beauty’, she is calm, affectionate and eager to please, bringing reassurance and companionship to Helen’s life. “She’s always by my side and has quickly become part of everything I do.”
For Helen, having a Canine Partner is about far more than practical support. “What you get back is double what you put in. It’s truly life-transforming.”
Her dogs have given her independence, confidence and the freedom to live life her own way. “I couldn’t have wished for two better dogs. I absolutely adore them.”
Support more partnerships
This MS Awareness Week, Helen’s story shows the difference a Canine Partner can make.
With your support, we can train more dogs like Amber and Kara – helping more people live with greater independence, confidence and freedom.