From Tragedy to Triumph…Caleb’s Story of Courage and Determination

Today, Caleb is a thriving high school senior preparing for graduation and looking forward to the next phase of life; navigating the world around him with confidence and determination.

But, five years ago, Caleb’s future looked very uncertain, even hopeless.

One morning, on their way to school, Caleb and his family were in a tragic car accident, leaving Caleb fighting for his life. He sustained traumatic brain injuries, loss of vision and loss of hearing in his left ear. He endured 18 surgeries, spent months in rehabilitation centers, and defying all odds, Caleb learned to walk again!

Caleb’s challenges with vision loss led him to work with an orientation and mobility (O&M) specialist in his hometown to begin learning how to travel using a white cane. This specialist told Caleb about Leader Dog. Soon, Caleb and his parents began learning about the life-changing programs available to him.

Caleb’s parents realized how he could benefit from Leader Dog’s Teen Summer Camp and Teen O&M programs. After successfully completing both programs, Caleb’s mom said, “Teen Summer Camp helped Caleb see there is a future path forward for him.”

And that’s exactly what Caleb is doing…he is moving FORWARD!

Caleb is eager to return to Leader Dog to determine if guide dog travel is the right fit for him. Caleb may have setbacks, but he continues to embrace the challenges each day brings and said, “Some people focus on what they CANNOT do, but I choose to focus on what I CAN do!”

By making a gift from your estate, whether through a will or trust, CGA or beneficiary designation, you can ensure that Leader Dog will continue to support clients like Caleb throughout their lifetime. To learn more, contact Lora Cabarios at 248.650.7109 or lora.cabarios@leaderdog.org.