We let Jessup return to Heaven last Monday with the help of a very special “angel” named Kathleen. Jessup (1995-2007) was a retired guide dog, who came into our lives over 10 years ago, not long after we lost our youngest son, Joey(13) in a skiing accident. Jesse was retired after completing all training because he could not do his business on command, a prerequisite for guiding a blind person. Jessup brought back the gift of joy into our lives, giving us something to smile about when we woke up or returned home to what had been a quick sand-pit of memories. We only had the strength to visit the spot of our son’s accident with his help leading us up the mountain. Jesse was as naughty as he was beautiful. Right up until the day he left us, he refused to let anything life brought his way push the fun out of his day. He had an insatiable appetite and an iron stomach and we can remember him devouring cakes, loaves of bread, and boxes of chocolates. He could open an overnight visitor’s suitcase to find any treats hidden inside. Jesse and I were like brothers, as I teased him constantly and he always returned the favor. You have to have been a little boy to understand how much fun this was for me. He left as a true champion, overcoming his little past guide dog issues and going out to do his business right on schedule when he could barely walk. This “service” dog may not have helped the blind as intended, but was destined to serve in another way. We thank God for this gift and may He bless him forever.
John and Sue Reuter