Saint Francis Service Dogs is a non-profit organization that helps children and adults with disabilities to become more independent and self-sufficient through partnerships with professionally trained service dogs. Meet duo Danny and Simon!
Danny has Down syndrome and needs his service dog Simon for emotional companionship both in the home and in public.
Simon helps Danny with daily chores like laundry and cleaning up, picking things up off of the floor and helping to put things in their place. The pup also assists Danny with breakfast by opening and closing cabinets and drawers for him.
Danny has a severe hearing impediment and relies on Simon to alert him when someone is at the door or if the fire alarm goes off. This alleviates Danny’s mother’s apprehension when Danny is at home alone.
Danny is very outgoing and has become a mentor and a leader at his job at the hospital, inspiring others to make friends and step out of their comfort zone. They show what a service dog can do when participating in events like the Special Olympics.
Simon gives Danny a purpose – Danny now has a friend to take care of, which motivates him to be more responsible, to grow emotionally and become more independent. Danny takes great pride in taking care of Simon and Simon takes care of Danny as well. They always have each other’s back through thick and thin.
Simon has been a companion to everyone in the family through difficult times. Danny’s mom Eileen Alexander says, “Simon is Danny’s service dog but he is the mainstay for the entire family. He just adds so much joy to our home.”
