‘I Got My Life Back Because of Her’

After undergoing surgery and physical therapy to walk again, Susie Marshall’s recovery depended on the support of others. That included her service dog. As it turned out, Marshall wasn’t the only one to benefit from Zira’s healing effect.

She set out, with Zira by her side, to help others. The duo volunteers at Pleasant Valley Church’s weeklong Camp Awesome in Winona, Minnesota. As part of the camp’s Buddy Base program, they put young campers at ease.

“We help children who need a little more guidance or are unsure of being in a new environment and away from their parents,” Marshall said. “We also visit the medical tent. As soon as they start petting Zira, most kids stop crying and forget about their injury.”

Marshall also takes every opportunity to answer kids’ questions about service dogs, including why she has one and how they help. By the end of the week, Zira was a camp hit.

“Everyone knew her by name and would run over to pet her. They were so excited that she was there,” Marshall said.

Outside of Camp Awesome, the two volunteer as church greeters every Sunday and help church staff set up for Sunday school during the week.

“When Zira and I walk into the building, she goes to the office to greet the staff,” Marshall said. “Their faces are full of smiles, and they say that petting her makes their day.”

When asked why she is Still Serving with Zira, Marshall explained, “It’s a way to pay it forward to all those who helped me recover — from the surgeons at the VA to the physical therapists to family members who helped me get out of my wheelchair and walk again.

“I also want people to know what a great service dog Zira is. I got my life back because of her.”