Message from the President
Meeting Enid Bourne of NYC
There are some people you meet that stick with you forever. You may not interact with them frequently, you may not speak to them for years, but they are the people you reflect back on throughout your life. Enid Bourne is one of these people for me.
I was lucky enough to meet Enid last summer while in New York City. I spent part of an afternoon with her and her Leader Dog “Lilly.” I wanted to meet Enid while in NYC because she has used a Leader Dog since 1949, longer than any of our graduates. She was able to enlighten me on how Leader Dog has changed over the years and how being blind has changed during her lifetime.
As I worked to keep up with Enid and Lilly navigating down a New York street, it occurred to me that she was going to be one of the people that impacted me forever. While observing how easily Enid and Lilly moved through the crowds on the busy sidewalk, I was struck by her smile. It is among the most genuine I have ever seen. It makes you feel good to spend time with her.
On April 4, 2009, Leader Dog will be celebrating 70 years of positively impacting the lives of people who are blind and visually impaired. As the anniversary of our incorporation draws near, I think of people like Enid and I’m grateful that Leader Dog was there to provide them a means for safe, independent travel. In these uncertain financial times, Leader Dog is committed to serving those that seek and need our services. Thank you for helping us during the first 70 years and we look forward to another 70 years. May you have a happy and safe 2009.
Gregory Grabowski President & CEO
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