Long-time Guide Dog supporter Thelma Stewart held a card stall at Karrinyup Shopping Centre over the Mother’s Day weekend, raising a massive $2,435.70 for the Guide Dog program. Thelma has been quietly raising money for Guide Dogs WA since 2007, and this latest effort brings her grand total to over $26,300!
All weekend Guide Dog puppies-in-training su-PAW-vised the stall, and they were all on their best behaviour. There were appearances from puppies-in-training Dash, Wattle, Ernie, Sunny, Jesmond and Izzy, as well as the veteran Public Relations Dog himself, Gidgee. There were several Puppy Raisers and Guide Dog users who came down to say ‘hello’, and Thelma was there all weekend (which is fantastic dedication from a brilliant woman!).
Thelma’s fundraising has encouraged many conversations in the community over the years. “At the stalls, people stop and talk about the training and the work of Guide Dogs,” said Thelma. “Puppy Raisers come with their dogs of different ages and various stages of training. They explain what their role is and give advice about how to get involved in Puppy Raising. My cards are a starting point for them.”
As a final surprise, her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren all came down with cards of their own on Mother’s Day to make sure that Thelma was feeling the same love she sends to us each year. Thanks a lot for your one-of-a-kind support, Thelma!
It’s because of fundraisers like wonderful Thelma that the gift of a Guide Dog is able to so radically change lives in Western Australia. If you’re interested in fundraising for Guide Dogs WA, you can learn more about our Community Fundraising program or make a donation today!
