In 2022, we introduced Linda-Lee Odom to her new Mobility Dog, Mr Darby. Three years on, their story is one of transformation, trust and a life-changing impact from their partnership.
“Mobility Dogs and their Puppies in Prison Programme, staff, whānau, and family gave me my best friend!!” Linda-Lee says.
Linda-Lee Odom KSM lives with a walking impairment, causing balance issues. It makes everyday tasks most would consider simple, challenging.
However, from the moment Mr Darby arrived at her home in February 2022, their bond was instant. “We knew we would be in one another’s lives forever,” says Linda-Lee. With Mr Darby by her side, everyday life has taken on a new rhythm. He offers stability and support on stairs, pavements, and uneven ground – not through physical strength, but through presence, confidence, and partnership. “He holds out his arm to support me, as a gentleman would – and he is.”
Together, they’ve embraced life all due to Mr Darby’s impact. They’ve flown across the Tasman and all-around Aotearoa New Zealand. They’ve met Her Excellency, the Governor-General of New Zealand– where, according to Linda-Lee, Mr Darby turned on the charm just a little too much! Most importantly, they’ve continued meaningful volunteer work that would have been very difficult or impossible for Linda-Lee to pursue on her own.
“This beautiful being is an extension of me. When he is in his working jacket and harness, we are a team. But once the jacket and harness come off, Mr Darby becomes a free spirit – he loves playing with other dogs, he’s a clown, just being himself.”
What stands out most is Mr Darby’s ability to break down barriers – not just for Linda-Lee, but for those around them too. “He always leaves a smile on people’s faces. We share connection, joy, and understanding – unconditionally.”
None of this, Linda-Lee is quick to emphasise, would be possible without the many hands and hearts behind the scenes. “Managers, coordinators, trainers, the Puppies in Prison Programme, puppy walkers, donors, supporters – all the other hidden heroes – you are all part of this. Each night, I tell Mr Darby how much he is loved and appreciated. And each night, I say thank you to everyone who made this possible. You’ve all walked beside us through his puppyhood and beyond, and your support carries us every day.”
Linda-Lee and Mr Darby’s story is a testament to the transformative power of connection and partnership – the kind made possible when people, purpose, and dogs come together. Their journey reminds us why we do what we do at Mobility Dogs: the impact of empowering independence, one paw at a time.