Following many weeks of preparations (and keeping a tight lid on the exciting news), we’re incredibly proud to share that we attended The One Show’s 20th anniversary programme.
Shelley and Canine Partner Meikle, along with Shelley’s son Will, took centre stage at BBC Broadcasting House in London during an incredibly emotional segment presented by Angellica Bell and Clara Amfo.
Turning the clock back all the way to 2012, Angellica, reporting for The One Show, met and interviewed partner Kate and Canine Partner Byron. Will, aged just ten-years-old at the time, caught a glimpse of Canine Partners’ feature and sent off for an application pack for Shelley, encouraging her to apply.
Fast forward fourteen years, Shelley is now thriving with her second Canine Partner, Meikle, who joined her and Will to surprise an incredibly touched Angellica.
After the emotional, live interview with Angellica and Clara, Shelley, Will and loyal companion Meikle were invited backstage to see Tom Grennan close the anniversary show performing his chart-topping hit, ‘A little bit of love’.
I still remember seeing the feature on The One Show that inspired everything that’s happened since. Before then, mum would never have dreamed an assistance dog could help – so to be here now and see mum enjoying life again with Meikle makes everything worthwhile.
Meet Shelley and Canine Partner Meikle
Shelley lives with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a genetic condition that affects collagen and causes her joints to dislocate frequently and without warning.
“I fall regularly, drop everything, and even the smallest movement can cause me pain or injury. Some days I can walk around more easily, but other days I’m reliant on my wheelchair.”
Attending The One Show’s 20th anniversary with Will and Meikle by my side has been such a proud moment. Assistance dogs like my Meikle are truly remarkable, and he’s made such a positive difference to my life. When I found out I was going to be on live television, I couldn’t believe it. It just goes to show the impact of Canine Partners and the impact of assistance dogs.
Meikle’s task work and impact as a Canine Partners assistance dog
From loading and unloading the washing machine, to providing essential task assistance outside of the home, Meikle is more than your average assistance dog.
Meikle’s favourite assistance dog task work includes:
- Helping Shelley get ready in the morning and evening
- Loading and unloading the washing machine, knowing what items to pick up and when
- Providing vital outside assistance when shopping
- Picking up any dropped items, including fiddley keys and kitchen utensils
- Accompanying Shelley to health appointments and social outings, including the hairdressers
Meikle’s enthusiasm knows no bounds, especially when he knows he’s helping me and supporting around the home. My first assistance dog, Kibble, was very gentle and steady, whereas Meikle is friendly and affectionate, tackling his tasks with energy and personality.
About The One Show’s 20th anniversary celebrations
To mark The One Show’s milestone anniversary, Alex Jones and Roman Kemp celebrated a week of special programmes featuring celebrity guests, memorable reunions, surprise moments and stories that have captivated viewers over the last two decades – including our very own Shelley and Canine Partner Meikle.
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