London, ON

IN MEMORY OF A FRIEND

“For God so loved the world, that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” John 3:16

On August 29, 2014, we lost a friend and client, Susan Getchell of London, ON. Only recently graduated from our spring partner training camp, she had precious few weeks this summer with her new canine partner, Cortland, but for her those weeks WERE precious. She loved Cortland and it was clear he loved her and together, they both loved life...each living in the moment and each living out loud...together!   And that is the essence of what a partnership with a service dog is all about. We will miss Sue, her smile, her laughter and her “Pawsitive” outlook on life and we’ll celebrate the gift of her presence with us, however short it was. 

Susan Getchell

Our hearts go out to her husband Bryan, her daughters Leah and Hilary and her two  grandchildren. Her loss will be felt deeply for sure, particularly in their lives.

LEAVING A LEGACY

Sue has certainly left behind a legacy in the lives of many students, children, friends and family through her storytelling, teaching and lessons she demonstrated by example on living life with joy. Just like our beloved Goldens, she seemed to live “in the moment”, aware of all the challenges that surrounded her and yet determining to do only what she could and letting go of all that was beyond her control. In thinking of her life, a quote from William James comes to mind: “To change one’s life: Start immediately. Do it flamboyantly. No exceptions.”

Memorial donations by cheque
can be sent to:
Golden Opportunity Assistance Dogs
1413 Helena Montague Ave,
 London, ON  N6K 1Z3
Attention: Susan Getchell Memorial Fund

Online PayPal donation:
Please be sure to enter in the “notes” section that the donation is for the Sue Getchell Memorial Fund