Lindsay Walkingshaw has always been fearless, curious, and up for an adventure. But as her sight worsened and falls became more frequent, even familiar streets began to feel unsafe.
“I became quite solitary. I wouldn’t go anywhere without my husband. I became clingy, and I’m not a clingy person,” she recalls. “I started staying close to home… That’s not me. I knew it was time for a change.”
That change came in 2019, when CNIB matched her with her guide dog, Charles.
“So lucky”
When she first met Charles, Lindsay was struck by how lucky she was.
“I looked at him and thought, ‘Oh my gosh, you are gorgeous! How was I so lucky to get a dog?’”
From day one, Charles proved to be more than just a partner in mobility. Once, after Lindsay fell while crossing a busy highway, Charles stood tall and immovable beside her, tail out and head held high.
“I looked over and here’s Charles standing as big as he could make himself. He was huge! He looked like a big lion. That was him protecting me in case a car decided to move. I couldn’t believe it.
“I thought, ‘It’s one thing to guide me and show me things, but to stand there and be so brave and put yourself right there?’ I was just blown away.”
From isolation to independence
With Charles by her side, Lindsay’s life opened up again. Together, they travel confidently to cities near and far, ride trains across Ontario, and even fly back to Scotland to visit her family.
“He knows exactly where to get off at the train station. When we arrive in Scotland, he knows my mum’s place. He’s my left-hand man – always there.”
Lindsay now leads a CNIB social group, goes blind sailing, and speaks to schools and community groups as a CNIB Guide Dogs ambassador.
“My life is pretty full now. I can’t imagine what I did before. It’s an absolutely amazing transformation – and it’s all because of Charles.”
A heartfelt thank you
For Lindsay, the kindness of CNIB supporters and donors has also made all the difference.
“You have no idea how valuable your support is, whether it’s through donations, puppy raising, or boarding. You’re the ones who give of yourselves and allow us to have a dog without feeling financially burdened, especially for people who truly can’t afford a dog but need one.
“You are the glue that holds it all together. There can’t be any words bigger than thank you!”
Help someone take their next step toward independence
When you give to CNIB, you make it possible for more people like Lindsay to travel safely, feel confident in their communities, and reclaim the independence they deserve. Every donation helps open the door to freedom and choice through programs like CNIB Guide Dogs. Make your gift today.