Rescued dog Freya inspires Roisin to embark on 99km walking challenge
By Mary Dennehy
A YOUNG woman who underwent brain surgery is embarking on a 99km walking challenge inspired by her rescue dog – as she believes her four legged friend rescued her.
Four months ago, Róisín Tracey underwent brain surgery due to a rare nerve condition called Trigeminal Neuralgia, which causes compression in the brain and chronic pain.
Roisin Tracey with Freya
The 24-year-old from Drimnagh was diagnosed with the condition two years ago, after which she was left bed bound and unable to work.
However, four months after brain surgery to relieve the condition, Róisín is recovering at home and embarking on a 99km walking challenge for Dogs Trust Ireland.
Since her operation, Róisín, who spoke with The Echo this week, realised the comfort and companionship provided by dog Freya.
Róisín’s family adopted Retriever/Collie mix Freya in 2017, after she was abandoned as a puppy on the M50 with her littermates.
Over the past few months, Freya has been glued to Róisín’s side and knows when her owner is in pain or about to have a seizure, alerting family members if she fell or collapsed.
“Freya is a great companion, it can be quite isolating and lonely recovering at home but Freya is here with me and motivates me”, Róisín said.
“She’s great for cheering you up if you’re having a bad day.
“She’s playful, loud and loves to bark but she’s so gentle and loving as well.”
Róisín added: “Freya usually sleeps with my parents but after I had brain surgery, she slept in my bed.
“We may have rescued her, but I feel she has done more for me than the other way around.
“When I saw the ‘99k for Canines’ challenge on my Facebook feed, I thought of how much Freya has helped me and how much I want to be able to help other dogs in need, just like she was, so we signed up immediately.
“Freya is my inspiration for getting out to walk and the challenge suits me because there will be days, I can walk further than others and days where I can’t walk at all.”
Róisín and Freya have signed up to the Dogs Trust Ireland challenge, which will see dog owners walk 99km over the month of February with or without their four-legged friend.
Head of Communication at Dogs Trust Ireland, Ciara Byrne said: “We were blown away when we heard Róisín’s story.
“The fact she’s taking part in our ‘99k for Canines’ challenge after everything she’s been through is such an inspiration to us and to everybody else taking part and we wish her and Freya the very best of luck.
“It’s such a wonderful way for Roisin to give back.
“She’s helping other rescue dogs, just like Freya, by fundraising for Dogs Trust via this challenge.”
For further details on 99K for Canines Facebook challenge and how you can participate visit Dogs Trust
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