Alexis Tihange, a 55-year-old resident of Ben-Ahin, Belgium, embodies resilience and adaptability. Diagnosed with a degenerative eye disease inherited from his mother, he began losing his sight at the young age of 16. By 28, complete blindness had set in, but far from succumbing to despair, Alexis embraced a life of independence, empowered by an extraordinary partnership with his guide dog, Saxo. This is a story of unwavering determination, the profound bond between human and animal, and the remarkable journey of navigating the world with a different perspective.
The Gradual Descent into Darkness and the Preparation for Independence
Alexis's vision loss wasn't a sudden event; it was a gradual decline, a slow fading of light. Each year brought a new level of visual impairment, forcing him to constantly re-calibrate his spatial awareness and develop new methods of navigation. "Each year, my view decreased a little, making it increasingly difficult to establish new benchmarks," he recalls. "I was lucky to have a good memory. I know everything by heart here, in the barn that I transformed next to my mom's house to have my home." This inherent ability to memorize his surroundings proved invaluable in his transition to life without sight. Having a "concrete world in mind," as he describes it, profoundly shaped his approach to blindness, differentiating his experience from those born without sight.
His proactive approach to managing his condition began early. After abandoning his initial pursuit of journalism due to the lack of accessible equipment, Alexis embarked on a two-year training program at the Braille League. This comprehensive course encompassed Braille literacy, legal and medical secretarial skills, and hospitality techniques, equipping him with a diverse skill set to navigate the job market. However, his job search proved challenging. Despite his skills and determination, the prospect of his impending complete blindness often deterred potential employers, particularly regarding his ability to commute independently using public transportation.
The Transformative Power of a Guide Dog
The arrival of Saxo, Alexis's first guide dog at the age of 28, marked a profound turning point. Provided through the association "Light," Saxo wasn't just a tool for navigation; he was a partner, a companion, and a vital source of emotional support. "When I saw the difference [between using a cane and having a guide dog], it was extraordinary. I didn't hesitate," Alexis explains. The transition wasn't simply about practical assistance; it was about regaining a sense of independence and freedom that had been slowly eroded by his declining vision.
The selection process for a guide dog is rigorous, ensuring compatibility between the dog and its future handler. Saxo, chosen for Alexis, needed a spacious environment, a need perfectly met by Alexis's lifestyle and home. This compatibility extended beyond the practical; it was a crucial element in building a strong and trusting bond.
The psychological impact of having a guide dog is often overlooked, but Alexis stresses its significance. Saxo’s presence significantly improved his mental well-being. "Thanks to him, I want to go for walks. It's an autonomy, a tranquility. We do two-hour walks every day in the wild." These daily walks in the diverse landscapes surrounding his home – a mix of woods and Ravel paths – provide not just physical exercise but also a vital connection to nature and a sense of freedom.
The Journey of a Guide Dog: From Puppyhood to Partnership
The training and preparation of a guide dog is a meticulous process, involving dedicated foster families and rigorous training at organizations like "Interviews." Before Saxo, Alexis had two other guide dogs, each with its own unique story. The training typically involves two years. The first year focuses on foundational skills – house training, socialization in various environments (shops, public transport), and basic obedience. The second year encompasses specialized guide dog training at the organization, where instructors refine the dog's skills and prepare it for its role. During this time, the dog spends weekdays at the training facility and weekends with its foster family, ensuring a balance of structured learning and loving companionship.
Alexis's experience highlights the vital role of the foster family. Saxo's foster family remained deeply involved even after his placement with Alexis, visiting three to four times a year. Their commitment underscores the enduring bond formed between the dog and its foster family, and the crucial role of these families in preparing guide dogs for their life-changing work. The separation, however, was difficult for them.
The transition period between receiving a guide dog and fully integrating it into daily life is carefully managed. A dog handler accompanies the new pair for fifteen days, helping the dog learn the handler’s usual routes and assisting with navigation in various locations. This gradual integration ensures a smooth transition and builds confidence for both the handler and the dog.
Navigation and Communication: A Symphony of Shared Understanding
Alexis's communication with Saxo is a complex and nuanced interaction, going far beyond simple commands. Saxo understands verbal cues like "Stop," "on the right," and "on the left," and the crucial command "the brand," used to halt at boundaries or stairwells. The flexible harness used further enhances their connection, creating a seamless extension of Alexis's arm.
Saxo's communication isn't just about responding to commands; he actively participates in navigation. When encountering obstacles, Saxo assesses the situation, and if impassable, sits down, prompting Alexis to use his cane to further evaluate the environment. Alexis then might prompt Saxo with "the way," signaling a search for an alternative route.
Navigating staircases is a prime example of their collaborative approach. The dog acts as a guide, but the handler's spatial awareness is essential. They must know their route to give the dog the necessary orientation. Over time, Saxo learned Alexis's regular routes, anticipating turns and stops, even locating specific bus stops and free seats on public transport.
Navigating forests poses a different challenge. While Alexis's memory of previously explored paths is helpful, new paths require assistance. A sighted person accompanies them, providing verbal cues that Alexis can relay to Saxo, creating a new set of memorized landmarks. GPS technology also plays a supplementary role, offering additional navigational data.
Despite their exceptional teamwork, unforeseen situations occasionally arise. While Saxo's accuracy is remarkably high (nine times out of ten), distractions or the dog’s own curiosity can lead to minor deviations. Such incidents provide opportunities to reinforce training and solidify their communication. A memorable instance involved Saxo veering towards a puddle – a mishap resolved through calm communication and patience.
The Financial Aspect and Saxo's Roles Beyond Navigation
The cost of training a guide dog is substantial (€43,000), but the financial burden is significantly alleviated through subsidies and government assistance programs. This makes these life-changing partnerships accessible to individuals like Alexis.
Saxo's role extends beyond navigation. He assists with locating dropped items, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability. However, his primary function remains guiding Alexis through his daily life, enabling him to maintain his independence and participate fully in the world.
The Enduring Bond and the Future
Alexis's experience with Saxo and his previous guide dogs profoundly illustrates the transformative power of these partnerships. The bond he shares with Saxo is not just one of practical assistance but a deep, emotional connection that enhances his quality of life immeasurably. The unwavering support from the guide dog associations, foster families, and government programs underscores the importance of these partnerships in empowering individuals with visual impairments. As Saxo ages, Alexis will face the difficult decision of finding a new guide dog. However, his experience and the profound bond he shares with Saxo serve as a testament to the remarkable resilience and unwavering spirit of the human-animal bond. It's a story of independence, partnership, and the ability to navigate life's challenges with grace, determination, and the unwavering support of a four-legged friend.