Where did you serve and what did you do?

I have been a member of the MA Army National Guard since 2005, I have deployed to Iraq in support of OIF and have been on over 10 state activations for emergencies and response.

Tell us how your dog is helping you continue Still Serving in your community.

I recently stepped down as the President of the Franklin LGBTQ Alliance due to a move across state. While serving in a leadership role there my dog Sway has been the unofficial mascot and support dog for the FLA. There are a number of leaders and community members who struggle with anxiety, depression and struggle with social situations. For many, a dog being there is a guaranteed friendly face and a way to engage with people that’s less stressful and pressure. Sway is very happy to be there and to take pictures for social media with flags and props to use to advertise for events!

Why do you do it?

I love the LGBTQ+ community, and feel very passionate about the overlap and work that needs to be done between the LGBTQ+, veterans/service members and the mental health services! Places that feel safe, welcoming and inclusive are places I want to be, places with dogs are where I want to be, put the two together and it’s the perfect place!