I was raised as an only child with separated parents. Even though I grew up without siblings to teach me the values of sharing and humility, I will always be grateful for my circumstances. On my 10th birthday, my parents took me to the local animal shelter and surprised me with a dog. Shortly after bringing him home from the adoption center, I realized that he was not a puppy out of a fairytale. However, I was overwhelmed with happiness and quickly ignored the skin disease, mites, and history of trauma that turned away other potential owners.

I spent countless hours with my dog Otis as we alternated in between my parents houses every day. Although no one truly knows my lifestyle, Otis shares my experiences and grew up alongside me which has made us very similar. Otis is a timid dog with a particular set of fears which includes: the vacuum, turning around in our narrow kitchen, and any body of water.

Similarly, I was afraid to try new things as a child. Throughout my life, I have forced myself to overcome challenges like picky eating. At the time of Otis’ adoption I was struggling with my fear of wakeboarding. Many failed attempts and rough falls had deterred me away from the daunting sport of wakeboarding. After years of missed wakeboarding opportunities, I was determined to stay in the water until I succeeded. Otis, who was at the lake for the first time, was also terrified of the unknown. Eventually, my persistence paid off and I was on top of the water. My victory was short lived and my harsh fall primed Otis’ protective instincts and he launched himself into the lake.

To this day, Otis and I take up the opportunity to be out on the water whenever possible and are both more adventurous in unfamiliar territory. Ironically, my closest companion helped teach me independence as well as courage.