Today marks the halfway point of my Edison365 photo series. I’m celebrating because today was the first time I stood up from a bench unassisted! The progress I have made with @aaronhwestdc has been incredible. Edison was my sleeping cheerleader but just his presence has allowed me to push myself more than ever before. Thanks to everyone who has followed our journey thus far! #day182of365

In continuation of the half year celebration of my Edison365 Instagram daily photo series, watch how the picture unfolds. Each day, a piece of the image unfolded, just as there are many pieces that goes into training a service dog. #day183of365

The door to the basement is in my bedroom and down two steps which is nearly impossible for me to get to in order to close it. But, I don’t have to worry, Edison helps me by nudging the door to make sure it is shut! #day192of365

Can we make today ‘Flashback Friday?’ This was such a cool experience after the @abilities_expo when I worked as a greeter in 2014. Thanks to @empowerspinalcordinjury for teaching me. Of course, when I"m with Edison, I always take the elevator! #day193of365

Edison is taking a Saturday nap. He’s got a great spot with his stuffie as a pillow. What do you think he’s dreaming about? #day194of365

Edison is always ready to help at all hours of the day and night! Last night at about 11 PM, I was in the bathroom and one of my canes fell on the ground. What’s so great about having Edison is that I don’t have to worry about falling if I were to try to pick it up myself. At night my balance is less stable so having Edison there to help is so critical. After he was finished I told him he could go back to bed but he was still watching me to make sure I was OK. If I needed additional assistance, I could ask Edison to bark on command which is another signal that I need help, but luckily I haven’t had to do that thus far. Thanks to Edison for increasing my independence exponentially! I don’t feel nervous at night anymore. #day195of365

I said, “Are you ready? Fetch cane!” and he woke up to come help me. When he came into the bathroom he sat and waited until I gave him the command to fetch my cane.

What’s so great about having Edison is that I don’t have to worry about falling if I were to try to pick it up myself. At night my balance is less stable so having Edison there to help is so critical. After he was finished I told him he could go back to bed but he was still watching me to make sure I was OK. If I needed additional assistance, I could ask Edison to bark on command which is another signal that I need help, but luckily I haven’t had to do that thus far. Thanks to Edison for increasing my independence exponentially! I don’t feel nervous at night anymore. #day195of365

Today Edison accompanied me to the hair salon. Luzia always gives me a great style and she is always so welcoming to me and Ediso. I also met another client who was getting his hair cut before me so we all got in for a picture. #day196of365