Barbara Bonfield of Penrith wth her new guide dog Sam after graduating at the Guide Dog Centre at Glosodia.
SEVEN recruits graduated from the Guide Dogs Training Centre in the Hawkesbury last week.
A guide dog is a recognised mobility aid that enables blind people to reach destinations faster and more confident by locating obstacles such as steps and crossings.
Public relations speaker for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Barbara Bonfield, who is legally blind, puts her total trust in her guide dog Samara with everyday living.
“Samara is my fourth guide dog and without their help I would not be as independent and confident as I am now,” Mrs Bonfield said.
“My whole life I have tried harder than what is expected, and because of that and the help from Guide Dogs, I have been able to cope with life, raise a family and become successful in my profession.”
The number of people experiencing vision loss is set to increase from 200,000 to 300,000 by year 2020.
Guide Dogs NSW/ACT are helping more people who have vision loss and they hope to reduce waiting lists for assistance.
To donate, visit www.guidedogs.com.au