Freedom and a life reclaimed
Isabelle and Rumba
13/08/2025
Story
Thanks to the help assistance dog Rumba gives her, Isabelle is living independently and is now working on a PhD.
"Rumba’s the one who wakes up every morning and looks at me as if to say 'what do you want to do today?' And because of her, I get to do it," says Isabelle.
"Having Rumba by my side means I don't need someone with me all the time. Before her, I had to rely on carers or my dad to help me with so many things. Getting dressed, opening doors… just to name a couple."
"I feel incredibly empowered thanks to Rumba. Because of her, I can plan my future, doing things I would never have imagined doing before being partnered with her."
"Rumba is my constant. I wouldn’t be able to take all my next steps without her, nor would I want to. Her invaluable support, both practical and emotional, enables me to pursue my aspirations big and small."
"I’m working towards a career in helping universities become more accessible for students with disabilities, something that has been so important to me."
“I am also hoping to move into my own accommodation, which I would never have imagined doing before being partnered with Rumba.”
Dogs like Rumba open doors, they connect people, they keep families together, they help make life possible in so many ways.
Your support will enable more people to benefit from our dogs.
Bringing the whole family together
Holly is a very busy mum of five, fostering children that are neurodiverse as well as children with complex needs, emotional trauma and physical disabilities.
Accessing the future with confidence
When Victoria’s daughter, Amelie, told her she ‘wished she wasn’t herself’ anymore, it was time to rethink everything.
From days in bed to a life worth living
Following an accident at work, former primary school teacher Allison found her career cut short in 2001.