Mel’s Vision Loss Story with Guide Dog Tilly

“It’s completely shifted the way I approach my daily life,” Mel says.

Mel lives with her family in Pukekohe. Life is busy, full of work, family, and hobbies, “I’ve always liked keeping busy and learning new things,” Mel says.

In her mid-30s, Mel was diagnosed with optic nerve damage. “The hardest part wasn’t the loss of eyesight,” she explains. “It was actually the loss of independence.” Driving became impossible, and everyday tasks became more challenging.

When she was classified as blind, her specialist referred her to Blind Low Vision NZ straight away. “They were fantastic,” Mel says. “Blind Low Vision NZ made sure I had all the technology I needed to continue doing my job, which was really important to me, and they taught both myself and my family how to live with my disability, and of course how to use a white cane.”

While the cane gave Mel some independence back, it also made her feel self-conscious. Over the years, Blind Low Vision NZ continued to support Mel with upgrading her technology and connecting her with WINZ and Workbridge for financial support. “It made a real difference,” she says.

Mel had thought about getting a guide dog for several years, but she wasn’t sure she would qualify for one. In 2019, when Mel was visiting friends in Kāpiti Coast, they introduced her to their neighbour Allison who had been involved with guide dog puppy raising for many years. “After talking to Allison about guide dogs, I realised how much it could benefit me” Mel says. A few months later she applied and was accepted. “It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!”

Mel says before she was introduced with Tilly, she was nervous about how it would go. Mel wondered, “whether we would like each other, and the effect it would have on every aspect of my life, but in particular my family and work colleagues.” The weekend she spent together with Tilly before training began helped calm her nerves. “Tilly was initially very quiet, but it was as if she woke up the next morning and realised this was it – I was her person. We just clicked.”

Mel’s guide dog mobility instructor (GDMI), Paula, noticed the instant bond. “Paula said it was clear from the outset that Tilly was devoted to me,” Mel says. At the time, Paula was completing her GDMI training, so Greer came up from Christchurch to assist and provide support. “I was very lucky to have both of them helping me. The training was daunting at first, and it was hard to remember everything, but once I learnt to just let go and put my faith in Tilly, we progressed very quickly.”

Mel took a week off work for the initial training, and continued to meet with instructors Paula and Greer several times a day during the next week. “It was tiring, but so worth it,” she says. “Both Paula and Greer were amazing to learn from, and I’m so appreciative of all the work they put in to help Tilly and I become a great team.”

Now, Tilly guides Mel confidently through streets, shops, and public transport, giving her freedom and peace of mind. “Having a guide dog has given me back control. I can do the things I want to do without fear, and I feel like myself again” Mel says. “It took time to fully relax and hand over control to Tilly, but it’s been so worth it. I’m far more settled and confident, and I no longer feel embarrassed about being different. Tilly is a great conversation starter, so people are more likely to talk to me, and offer assistance if needed.” With Tilly, everyday routines have become opportunities for independence, choice, and connection.

At home and at work Tilly brings joy and companionship for Mel and her family. Even when Tilly isn’t guiding, she’s fantastic company. “She’s playful, affectionate, and a real character” Mel says. “She’s brings a lot of energy to my home, but is a calm support while I’m at work.”

Mel’s story shows that vision loss does not define a person’s life. With determination, support, and the right guidance, she continues to live fully on her own terms – moving with confidence, pursuing what she loves, and embracing the joy and freedom Tilly brings every day.

“My only regret is not applying for a guide dog sooner.”

If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, call Blind Low Vision NZ on 0800 24 33 33 or use the Make an Enquiry form on our Contact Us page.