Dad with MS finds new hope thanks to Canine Partners dog

Sean Anderson, 44, from Hampshire, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2007, and as the condition progressed, he became increasingly reliant on his wife, Josie, and daughters, Elsie and Mimi, for everyday tasks.

He said: "I went from walking, to crutches, and then a wheelchair. I couldn’t go outside without Josie, which made me feel isolated.

"I even had to rely on Elsie and Mimi to pick up things I dropped. As a dad, I should have been helping them, not the other way around. It was humiliating.”

Sean and canine partner Lucas. (Image: Canine Partners)

In 2018, Sean was partnered with Lucas, a yellow Labrador cross Golden Retriever trained by the charity Canine Partners.

He said: "Seeing his wagging tail and happy face for the first time gave me hope.

"Lucas helped me see that there could still be a positive future.

"He gave me a reason to be involved in life again."

Lucas helps Sean with everyday tasks, including fetching items, opening doors and helping around the home - small things that make a big difference.

Sean said: "I can help the girls in ways I couldn’t before.

"Lucas takes things to Josie or the girls, like when they forget something downstairs at bedtime. It feels amazing to be able to help them again."

Sean, Josie, Elsie and Mimi with Lucas. (Image: Canine Partners)

The whole family has felt the difference. Elsie, 13, said: "Before Lucas, Daddy slept a lot.

"Now he’s awake more, much happier and spends lots of time with us.

"We love going on walks and playing with Lucas."

Josie said: "The joy Lucas has brought has changed all our lives for the better.

"Without him, I honestly don’t think Sean would be here today."

Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, Canine Partners trains assistance dogs to help adults with physical disabilities gain independence and confidence.

From opening doors and loading washing machines to providing companionship, each dog transforms the lives of the people they support.