“Before I went into the Marine Corps, I was very outgoing. I liked to meet new people. I was very ‘the-glass-is-always-half-full’ and I could find the best in every situation. When I got out, I had a very hard time trusting anyone. I didn’t want to leave the house. I didn’t want to go do anything. I didn’t feel like talking to people. I went to the grocery store at 3 or 4 in the morning when I knew no one would be there.

“I met my service dog Delta in September 2020. I started noticing changes during that first weekend of training. Just having someone to be there for you, and you’re there for them, takes my mind off things. The first week back home, I could go to the store during normal times.

“Delta has given me more confidence in myself. She allows me to go out and interact with people without having to worry too much. If I’m starting to spiral, she lets me know. She’ll push on me, tap me on my foot.

“There are still days where I don’t feel like going outside. I still have panic attacks. But there are more days that I do go out now. Delta never leaves my side. My family and friends tell me every time they see me that I’m much closer to my old self. Having her here has helped me work on the issues I’m facing instead of burying them.”

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