A Gift of Safety and Independence
When Donna MacKenzie held future guide dog Dorrie in her arms for the first time, she felt so grateful that her mother’s wishes were finally being realized.
Inspired by her love of dogs, and a personal connection to family members with sight loss, Donna’s late mother, Dorothy, decided to leave a gift in her Will to sponsor this little puppy with purpose.
Dorrie, named after both the fishing boats in the East Coast and Donna’s mother, will spend the next two years training to become a future CNIB Guide Dog. Once her training is complete, she’ll provide the ultimate gift for a Canadian with sight loss – one of safety and independence.
In the fall, Donna and siblings, Ian and Heather, had the chance to meet Dorrie in person. “Dorrie was just so sweet,” Donna says as she reflects on the memory. “I could tell that both my brother and my sister truly enjoyed it. We’ve all gone through some difficult times recently – and this was such a wonderful experience to share together.”
When Donna reflects on the experience of working with CNIB, she expresses her gratitude for the support, kindness, and thanks she received from the planned giving team along the way. “I’m so thankful,” she says. [The team] is so committed to the families of donors and benefactors – and in letting them know exactly how their gift is making an impact.
“For me, this whole experience has made a meaningful difference all around,” she explains. “My mother’s gift to CNIB Guide Dogs has taught me and my siblings the grace in giving, CNIB has shown appreciation for my mother's [charitable] gift, and a puppy is about to have a life of service and purpose.
“It’s allowed me to feel a true sense of contentment, and it’s helped bring closure to the loss of my mother,” Donna says. “And I know that she would be very, very happy.”