Success Story

Public speaker, author, blogger, singer, musician, music teacher, and former Ms. Colorado Senior America, Gail Hamilton has another credit to her long list of accomplishments: Seeing Eye graduate!

Gail often travels with Ava, her sixth Seeing Eye dog, for public speaking engagements, musical performances, and other events. “I have always been independent,” she said. “If you tell me another blind person has done it, then that means I can do it, too!”

The photo shows Gail with Ava, a yellow Labrador/golden retriever cross in harness, at her feet in a school classroom. Gail is playing the autoharp, a stringed musical instrument that lays across her lap.

And while Gail – who has a master’s degree in psychology and counseling – is no longer a practicing therapist, she still often gives advice to her friends… or strangers!
“You can’t take the therapist out of me any more than you could take the musician out of me,” Gail said. “I want to share hope and whatever insight I have, and to let people know they’re not alone. We only have a very short life here. Don’t be afraid to do the thing you want to do.”

Providing Seeing Eye® dogs to help people, like Gail, live with greater independence and dignity is possible only because of your generous support. On behalf of every graduate, dog, and puppy: thank you for changing lives. We are deeply grateful for your generosity, friendship, and partnership.