As an Air Force Veteran, I was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa at the age of 23. It is a rare, inherited degenerative eye disease that causes severe vision impairment. I was declared legally blind in 2018 and began mobility training at the VA Blind Rehabilitation Center where I learned to use a cane. I then applied for a Guide Dog. Approximately a year later, Kevin, a black Labrador Retriever and I became a team. Kevin gave me back some of my independence and dramatically reduced my anxiety in crowds. 

While Kevin was in his harness, I noticed he had difficulty getting comfortable on cold hard floors at restaurants and other locations. I had to do something for him. This is how the "Kevy Go Mat" came about. Kevin takes care of me, so I have to take care of him.