‘I really love being a My Guide volunteer and look forward to it’

Local woman Janice Doherty is in a My Guide partnership with guide dog owner Andrea O’Hagan.

They meet up once a week for a few hours for a walk and a chat.

“I met Andrea and Becky, Andrea’s dog, about six months ago. Myself and Andrea go out for the walk and this gives Becky the opportunity of a free run and some exercise in the local parks,” Janice said.

While a guide dog offers Andrea independence and freedom to get out and about, it still involves a lot of work.

She explains that when she is out with Janice, her guide dog Becky is able to run about.

“I’m not worrying the whole time about her because sometimes you don’t hear dogs coming. You don’t hear cyclists coming about, or people out just walking. So, it’s nice to have a person with you that can see everything around and can let you know in time and you’re not getting anxious. I enjoy the walk the way I should do and I know Becky’s getting enjoyment out of it too.”

While guide dogs are known for the life-changing dogs themselves, My Guide offers even more opportunities for people with a visual impairment, of which there are an estimated 51,000 living in Northern Ireland.

Andrea is full of praise for the My Guide service.

“It’s great to have this service not only for guide dog owners but also for other people that are visually impaired that use the likes of a cane.

“I would say to anyone who’s visually impaired; if you’re not confident going out on your own I would ask about the My Guide service, get on the list and get out with somebody once a week. It builds your confidence and boosts your self-esteem and morale, and it’s something to look forward to each week.”

Not every My Guide partnership includes a guide dog. And though for many this would be a bonus, volunteer Janice had some initial reservations.

“I wasn’t really a dog lover but now I am – Becky is very gentle and is a big part of Andrea’s life and it’s just wonderful that Andrea now has the trust in me for me to guide her, and I am more confident that I am doing it the right way.

“While the training was excellent, and inspirational, I just didn’t realise how difficult it would be for someone to put their trust in someone to be guided, it was amazing and I was glad I could do it. And I really do love doing it. The partnership has grown and developed so quickly and I look forward to every week.”

If you would like to volunteer with My Guide email [email protected] or contact 0345 143 0193.