EXPECTING ANOTHER MIRACLE IN PENNSYLVANIA

            When we speak of miracles, people often associate images in tea cups or a vegetable shaped like some mystical symbol of the past.  However, if you really want to see a miracle, then witness the bright smiling face of a service dog recipient.  Through the years we have seen many worthy causes benefit from the philanthropic endeavors of the members of the Order of Eastern Star.  In 2003-2004, we gave more than financial support to the Worthy Grand Matron's special project, we gave our hearts to 17 children who received service dogs. 

             Our first recipient was Torey Ribaudo, a child who suffered from ataxia, a nervous disorder that prevented him from keeping his balance. Through the financial support of the members of the Order, a beautiful black lab was purchased and trained.  Torey later developed leukemia and passed away in 2008.  His Service Dog “Ruthie” continues to be an important member of the Ribaudo family.

            Each dog has a story of how he or she helped someone to obtain independence, but it was our last dog really answered the call.

             He was placed in a school for Autistic children and very quickly adapted to the needs of several children. On the playground or in the classroom, this special K-9 went everywhere; even accompanying a child to the restroom was a common act. The teachers were amazed at the remarkable skills the dog possessed and often commented on how he would sense a child was at risk. Pulling or tugging at the child to ward off danger was a familiar occurrence. 

             One particular day, their service dog accompanied a child to the restroom and in a matter of minutes the dog began to bark.  Several teachers hearing the barking quickly assembled in the hallway outside of their classrooms, immediately understanding that the dog was trying to summon assistance. To the teachers’ dismay, they entered the restroom and discovered that the child was attempting to commit suicide.   Once again, a Service Dog responded, this time saving the life of a teenage girl and creating a miracle.