2 Green CSPE students welcomed Paul Traynor and his Guide Dog Brad to the school on Wednesday Sept 27.

 

The invite was issued on behalf of 8 girls in the class who have chosen Irish Guide Dogs For The Blind as the subject of their CSPE Action Project for this academic year. Brad enjoyed his celebratory status amongst the student body as students made their way to afternoon classes.

Paul, who was accompanied by his wife, Teresa, spoke openly to the class about how he lost his sight at aged 26, following an accident on the football field. Brad is his fourth Guide dog, a five year old German shepherd. He talked to the students about how, having come to terms with his blindness, having a Guide dog has transformed his life, and made everything possible again. In what was a most interesting insight to the issue of visual impairment, and the difference a guide dog can make to a life, Paul dealt with a diverse range of questions from an obviously interested audience. Meanwhile, Brad looked the most contented of all, as he lay on the floor, ever patient and laid back, quite happy to be mingled among the students present.

Laura, Mia, Jessica, Ffion, Lila, Emily, Sophie and Sophie now look forward to working on their project throughout the coming year, having had their appetite whetted following the visit of Paul, Teresa, and most importantly, Brad.