Our weekend brought a change of pace with a half-day of training followed by some much-needed downtime. After an intense week of learning and growing together, this break gave everyone – recipients, families, dogs, trainers, and staff – a chance to catch their breath and deepen our connections.

Watching Cooper and his dog interact in the play yard has been pure joy. His dog’s personality continues to emerge – smart, patient, and kind-hearted. It’s remarkable how well their temperaments align; both share that natural love of people and warmth that draws others in. These moments remind me of the careful thought that goes into each match, creating partnerships that seem almost magical in their compatibility.

Saturday night’s class dinner was filled with games, laughter, and story-sharing – the kind of informal moments that build lasting connections. As a parent of a child with a disability, I’ve always found incredible value in learning from others’ journeys. These shared experiences, whether over a meal or during casual conversations, become an essential part of our growth and understanding.

Cooper has been making his mark here, just as he does everywhere he goes. It’s been beautiful to watch him challenge fixed perceptions about Down syndrome through his unique personality and spirit. Cooper has never been one to fit into predetermined categories or expectations – he creates his own path and leaves lasting impressions on everyone he meets.

As we approach our final days together and look toward graduation, there’s an exciting sense of anticipation about the forever part of this journey. The impact this dog will have on Cooper’s life is already becoming clear, and we know this is just the beginning of something truly transformative.

Stay tuned as we move into our final days of training and prepare for the next chapter of this incredible journey.