“I found Mary [Cortani] online when I was trying to find out how to build a dog house. I did not know about service dogs. I joined Operation Freedom Paws and now I have Bear. It has been tough getting used to being around a lot of people and being in confined areas. I am always looking for safety points, exits and where to take cover. Bear helps me feel safe. When I have nightmares, Bear helps to wake me up.

“Words cannot explain how much I care for Mary and Operation Freedom Paws.”