Canine Companion Helps Boy with Cerebral Palsy

Eight-year-old Mason Murphy has cerebral palsy, preventing him from using his legs. In August, Mason received an assistance companion named Crisp from Canine Companions, a nonprofit organization in which volunteers raise and train assistance dogs to help individuals with disabilities. Crisp is a Labrador-golden retriever mix who has become Mason’s helper and best friend. Crisp helps pull off Mason’s clothes and socks before bedtime and opens and closes the door for him. He brings him toys and responds to more than 40 commands. "Anywhere Mason goes, the dog goes," said Mason’s mother Page Murphy. "Mason had surgery last week; the dog was in the hospital with him all week. They're inseparable. They're best buddies." Murphy said she learned about Canine Companions two years ago at a cerebral palsy conference and waited until they found a dog that suited Mason’s needs. If you wish to seek financial compensation, contact our cerebral palsy attorneys.