Lizzey D’Sylva-Clark has been blind since birth. A vivacious and ambitious young lady, she regularly volunteers at Radio Adelaide as an on-air presenter for Access All Areas, a program about youth and disability.
Lizzey is a keen sportswoman and rides tandem with a cycling club, competing in the women’s national and state championships every year. She has also recently taken up rowing and hopes to compete in this sport in the future.
To top off her already busy life, Lizzey is about to begin studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science, majoring in Sociology.
“I’d like to become a psychotherapist or prison psychologist. I’ve always been interested in helping people and giving back. I’m a good listener and can put myself in another person’s shoes.”
Around two and a half years ago, Lizzey decided she wanted to be matched with a Seeing Eye Dog to support her to get out and about.
She was looking for a dog with high energy and one which was motivated to do things and be challenged. She also listed a preference for a larger, black, male dog so that it had a presence.
“Lacey matched most of the criteria except for sex and size but this wasn’t too much of a concern as everything else fitted. She was just so excited when we met I knew she was the dog for me.”
The pair spent three weeks getting to know each other and training with one of our instructors, Greer.
“On the last day of training I was worried I was going to fail. I was worried that Lacey and I would stay stagnant. So, I had to overcome my worries and believe that I would make a good handler.”
Looking back, Lizzey’s concerns were unfounded.
Lacey has fitted well into Lizzey's daily life. Together, they have embarked on a number of adventures including hiking, visiting the beach and camping. She will also be by Lizzey’s side when she heads off to university.
“I feel so confident getting out and about with Lacey and love being so independent. Lacey has slotted in with everything I do and she brings a lot of colour, joy and fun to my life.
“She also gives me the motivation to get out and do things. I’ve embraced her with open arms and we’ve become a great team together.”