William Candlish
La Grande, Or
August 15, 2018
Mary Mattox,
I want to thank you for all the hard work you have put in with Woodrow and I. PTSD and all the haunting demons that follow it are an everyday struggle to face and fight daily. As you know each of us affected by it have attempted to combat it in many different ways, from alcohol and drugs to trying ignore or deny it. To face this reality that PTSD does not go away can be scary and sobering; to be reminded of a traumatic life changing experience or experiences takes a toll on us and those closest to us.
During my deepest struggles trying to find a way to live with PTSD I spent months not going anywhere unless I had to, I lived with the shades down and took so many different psyche medications I wondered some nights if I would wake the next morning and if I even wanted to. I think we each find a reason daily to go on and beat the taunts and turmoil thoughts at the door. I am very lucky to keep trying and have the support system as I do to want to move forward healthy, happy and understanding of what is occurring or have occurred.
Finding Service Peace Warriors provided my family and me a resource to attempt to lessen the effects of my PTSD. I never knew the benefits of having Woodrow would be this effective, while early we are starting to see changes in my behavior. Woodrow is starting to see my body language and understand what it means, how to respond to benefit me and provide a service no medication could ever do.
Along with PTSD as you know I have mobility issues and chronic pain. Woodrow is doing very well on stairs and assisting me when needed, he is improving his focus on me and notices when the pain is getting to the frustrated level. He will sit next to me and paw me for a touch which focuses me on him and not on the pain; if even for a minute I can focus on him it takes the pain level down. As our bond grows I am confident having him will benefit me on a grander scale.
I have learned a great deal about what dogs can do for a person with PTSD, thanks to you and your knowledge about animals and the positive roles they play in a person’s life. The role you and your family have taken to help veterans is highly inspiring, respected and honorable. I cannot thank you all enough; I will continue to honor you and the Service Peace Warrior ethos by working with Woodrow as a team while providing him an excellent life.
Sincerely,
Pete Candlish
