Osolu and Stitch

Meet Graduate Osoluchukwu

Graduate Team:  Osoluchukwu and Stitch
About the Team:  Stitch, a black, male Labrador Retriever is Osolu’s 1^st guide dog.
Location:  Parkville, Maryland
Training: June 2024 On-Campus

Osolu is looking forward to her sophomore year at the University of Delaware this fall. She is pursuing a double major in Criminal Justice and Psychology, concentrating in disability studies. Originally from Nigeria, she immigrated to the United States with her family as a child. Osolu enjoys returning to the country for a biannual visit. When she is not busy studying or working, she enjoys reading, swimming, and traveling. She recently took a trip to Jamaica and looks forward to future adventures with her guide dog, Stitch.

How would you describe your guide dog?  “Stitch is very smart, calm and confident. He is patient, knows what to do, and waits for me to get it right! He is very accurate when targeting.  Even simple things like finding a chair when I arrive somewhere are so much easier with Stitch. I have quickly come to rely on his accuracy. He is very loyal, too. He quickly learned the members of my family and will find them or follow them when we are out together.  Stitch does not enjoy the summer’s heat and humidity but, he knows he has a job to do and will ‘power walk’ through the heat to get me to our destination -and air conditioning!”

What made you decide to apply for a guide dog from Guiding Eyes? “I love dogs! At a recent convention of the National Federation of the Blind, I met several Guiding Eyes graduate teams. I found each of the graduates to be friendly, articulate, and confident.  The dogs were confident and good communicators too!  I visited the Guiding Eyes website and learned a lot about the organization, ranging from the mission to the impact. The staff at Guiding Eyes is very attentive and responsive.  Whether it was my initial inquiry, preparation for my arrival on campus, or questions after Stitch and I arrived home, Guiding Eyes thoroughly and completely provided answers and resources.”

How has having a guide dog impacted your life? “There are many things about using a cane that I find difficult or limiting. For example, getting stuck in a sidewalk crack and not identifying obstacles above you. It requires a lot of mental effort, whereas a dog is fun and more reliable.  There can be a stigma with a cane as well, as an attempt to give the cane user ample space, can also feel as if others are avoiding you because you are blind. I have a lot of pride and enjoy my independence. Stitch has given my family the confidence they need to enable and support that independence.”

Were there any training highlights? “Training was a lot of work but was also made to be a lot of fun! The first time I walked with Stitch I was surprised by his quick pace, but also his patience.  Stitch adjusted to my pace and showed that I could trust him.  My trainer Dan was great and kept me relaxed as I mastered the necessary skills. The training was carefully tailored to my needs.  For example, I asked for opportunities to be on a college campus and to navigate construction sites.  At my campus in Delaware, there are ongoing improvements and construction, which can be challenging to navigate.  I must mention how great the food is at Guiding Eyes! Chef Rob even reached out the week before I arrived, asking if I had any special menu requests.  Indeed, Pop-Tarts were waiting for me when I arrived! The attention to little details, (like Pop-Tarts!), was obvious throughout my Guiding Eyes experience and demonstrates the care and effort that goes into ensuring each client has the best experience possible.”

Meet Guide Dog Stitch

DOB:  3/26/2022
Litter ID: S-5S22
Color/Breed:  Black/Labrador
Gender: Male
Brood: Terri
Stud: Midnight
Littermates: Sierra, Sandra, Sherman, Suzanne, Sonic
Region:  Wayne County, Leatherstocking NY
Regional Puppy Instructor: MeKalea Chambliss
Puppy Raiser:  Mrs. Rebecca Reinhardt, Serinah Palafox, Joelle Ocheltree
Facebook: Wayne Cty Puppy Raisers
Facebook: Leatherstocking Puppy Raisers

Special Recognition: Stitch was special named by Thimble Pleasures Quilt Guild. Thank you to all the members of the guild for your support! 

From the Puppy Raiser…

Raising Stitch was an indescribable joy. His easy-going nature and infectious smile made it impossible not to fall in love with him. One of the best parts of raising him was watching everyone in the room light up as soon as they saw him. Stitch’s adaptable personality led us on countless adventures, from attending college classes to exploring the bustling streets of NYC, visiting Maryland, and taking his first flight. Stitch grew into a mature boy who took his work seriously, quickly mastering new skills and always striving to please his handler. Despite his hard-working nature, Stitch never failed to bring joy to everyone with his endearing wiggle butt, charming personality, and infectious smile. It was a privilege to raise this sweet boy. Guide on Stitchy Pooh! ~ Serinah Palafox 

Photos of the Team…