Then at just 15 years old her life was to change with the devastating news she had a cancerous tumour in her right leg. Just a year later, Frances’ leg was amputated to prevent the cancer spreading.
Determined not to let disability get in the way of her life, Frances set about teaching each of her dogs to do small tasks for her, everything from picking up dropped items to taking rubbish to the waste paper bin. But it wasn’t until later in life, that Frances took on Kim, a rescued Belgian Shepherd dog who seemed to know instinctively when Frances needed help. Never far from Frances’ side she would pick things up for her, from keys to a cordless phone. She would also steady Frances as she rose from a chair or provide stability as she walked down the stairs.
Kim had become the inspiration for Dogs for the Disabled.
Today, our dogs are trained to do even more practical tasks from helping take washing out of the machine to opening and closing doors and even helping someone undress. We help people with a huge range of disabilities from those with multiple sclerosis to paraplegics and cerebral palsy. In 2004 we set up our revolutionary new service – training dogs for physically disabled children.
Sadly Frances died in 1990, she was just 40. Although never able to see the hundreds of adults and children that her idea has helped, her memory lives on and in recognition of her work, the National Training Centre in Oxfordshire was named The Frances Hay Centre.
Without doubt, thanks to Frances’ legacy, Dogs for the Disabled has changed the lives of many; through tasks as simple as helping to open doors, emptying the washing machine or even picking up the post, they offer independence and life-changing support. There are still many more people who Dogs for the Disabled could help. providing them with a better life and hope for the future. 
With your assistance, we can make their dream a reality, providing them with a better quality of life and real hope for the future.
