A Black Lab’s Role in Transforming a Veteran’s Life Scout’s Meaningful Mission
The story of how Scout came into Ryan’s life feels almost destined. Before his deployment, Ryan and his wife had adopted a black Lab, coincidentally named Scout, who died before Ryan went overseas and whose loss Ryan never truly reconciled as he was away from home. So, when Ryan arrived at K9s For Warriors, and the trainers introduced him to his new service dog — a black Lab named Scout — it was a moment of profound healing and renewal. It was as if life had come full circle, offering Ryan a second chance at hope. K9s For Warriors is a testament to the life-changing power of service animals. Determined to combat the devastating reality that 20 veterans die by suicide every day, this program rescues and trains dogs to become service animals for veterans grappling with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and military sexual trauma. The result is transformative. Veterans find independence, confidence, and purpose, while rescue dogs gain a life of devotion and meaning. The impact is undeniable. Graduates of the program report mended family relationships, reduced medication reliance, and renewed joy in life. Ryan’s wife has seen the change firsthand, describing her husband as more engaged, animated, and hopeful for the future. Scout symbolizes resilience and proves that an incredible bond can heal even the deepest wounds.
For former U.S. Army Cavalry Scout Ryan Finch, life after his tour of duty was a battlefield of its own. Haunted by PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and the weight of his experiences, Ryan struggled to navigate even the simplest moments of daily life. But then Scout came into his life and became a lifeline, a symbol of hope, and a steadfast partner in his journey toward healing. Scout, a vibrant black Lab, has done more than help Ryan manage his anxiety; he’s transformed his world. Crowds and loud noises, once overwhelming triggers, are now manageable with Scout by his side.
Soccer games, family gatherings, and the everyday joys of life that once seemed impossible are now part of Ryan’s new normal. Scout’s presence allows Ryan to enter spaces he never thought he’d enter again, not as a man weighed down by his past, but as a father, a husband, and a human being rediscovering connection.
Divorce, Distractions, and Drive Tips for Tackling Professional Tasks
Staying focused at work can be one of the most significant challenges during a divorce. Here are three quick suggestions to help you avoid letting a tough time negatively affect your career. CRAFT CLEAR COMMUNICATION. Naturally, balancing our professional and personal lives can be tricky, especially when you’re going through an emotionally draining event that could slow your performance at work. Depending on your employer’s culture, informing your boss and team members of what’s happening may be wise. In addition to possibly suggesting constructive ways to remain productive, they may provide certain flexibilities regarding your duties, allowing for reasonable fluctuations in your performance. Additionally, if you’ve accumulated plenty of PTO, now may be a good time to take some well-deserved time off. AVOID THE TRIGGER TRAP. If you work away from home, you’ve likely transformed your cubicle or office into a mini representation of your home life — full of pictures of you smiling with your spouse or gifts and trinkets from years past. Instead of letting this space become a tomb of despair, put those mementos in a box and replace them with items that may brighten
your mood as you work. Of course, this goal may be challenging if
you’re a remote worker conducting business from Ground Zero of the split, but at least do what you can to clear your immediate work area of potential sore spots. FIND NEW METHODS FOR MIND AND MOTION.
Whether you work from home or in the office, a divorce or separation can drastically reshape your daily routine, often leaving gaps in your schedule you once filled with spending time with your partner. If you previously used your lunch break for text or phone check-ins with your significant other, you could now spend that time walking or performing a quick workout to recharge your internal batteries to finish the workday stronger. If you miss your Friday night TV time with your soon-to-be ex, redirect those hours to going to the gym, meeting with friends, or participating in a community organization or activity. No matter how you decide to fill your newly acquired free time, always devote it to charting a path toward greater self-care.
2 — rbbfirm.com
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