A BRAVE young man with muscular dystrophy has thanked a group for supporting Dogs for the Disabled.
Sam Povah, 16, of Rhuddlan, met St Asaph Rotary Club members who fundraise for the charity.
Sam relies on his labrador Micky to help him in his daily life.
At Denbigh High School, he is wheelchair-bound and lives with his family in a specially adaped bungalow.
Sam said: “Micky has made a big difference to my life. He does not just help me, but acts as my companion and gives me someone else to care for.”
Micky, who is two-and-a-half, joined the Povah household in November.
Sam’s family includes mum Sue, stepdad Tim, brother Jake, 18, and sister Lucy, 15.
Sue Povah said: “I can’t speak highly enough of the Dogs for the Disabled Scheme. It would be difficult to imagine life now without him.
“It costs about £10,000 to train a dog like Micky and we are so grateful for the generous financial support of St Asaph Rotary Club.”
Micky, whose skills include retrieving items, switching on lights and opening and closing doors, also acts as a vital link between Sam and the rest of the family.
He barks loudly to attract a family member whenever Sam is in need.
Alan Duke of the Rotary Club said: “Sam is a remarkable and brave young man. He has a special talent for writing and has completed a book of short stories which is currently being illustrated, ready for publication.”
Sadly Sam is currently spending time in Alder Hey hospital after he contracted an infection following an operation in which metal rods were used to control the curvature of his spine.
To support Dogs for the Disabled call 01295 252600 or visit the www.dogsforthedisabled.org