I was born with Cerebral Palsy, which affects my arms and legs. I use a wheelchair most of the time, but do walk occasionally. Because of my disability, I use a voice-recognition package called DragonDictate to talk to and control my computer. However, my disability hasn't stopped me from doing anything that I want to do.

I am currently training a male Doberman Pinscher to be a Service (Assistance) Dog. His name is Gillis (yes, I know, DOBIE GILLIS), but it wasn't my idea to name him that. However, when 7 friends tell you the same name, you go with the flow. :)

Gillis picks up things I drop, closes doors, pull off my shoes for me, and help me up when I fall. Gillis is learning to balance me when I need to walk, and pull my wheelchair. He will also carry things in a pack that I need.

Gillis is the 2nd dog I have used as a service dog. My first dog, Tyler, was a yellow Labrador Retriever, and trained by a program and given to me. In contrast, Gillis is completely owner-trained.

My hobbies include reading and writing Science Fiction and Fantasy, helping others to train service dogs, working on my computer, and helping to run a couple of Science Fiction conventions each year.

I am currently in training as an ADA pre-litigation inspector with ADA Consulting Associates, and a member of Access Now.

*Copyright © 1998-2007 Dana L. Marshall
*All Rights Reserved