Tank is a German Shepherd who has been specially trained to warn this Marine Corps veteran, Manny about an impending seizure. Here are Manny's words about his service dog. Feed the Dog, Inc. is looking for help to maintain Tank on premium food and medication for the dog's skin condition. Donate $60 and that will pay for Tank's food for one month!!
My name is Manny R. and I am a Retired US Marine. I earned the title United States Marine on the 10 of January 2003. From that date my new life as a Marine began. I deployed to Iraq on February of 2007. My MOS was 0431 Logistics Embarker but when I was in Iraq I volunteered to work with MP company in support of convoys. When I came back I picked up multiple MOS to help units deploy and redeploy. I had my first seizure on November 26 2012 and I got medically retired from the Marine Corps on May 1, 2014. Before I retired, Tank was given to me to see if he would be able to help me and my family with my medical issues. Well, it turns out to be that not only does he help me but he helps my family know when I’m having a seizure and where I am at by barking. There have been plenty of times that because of Tank, my wife has had enough time to get to me, secure me and call for help. He has saved my life a lot of times by doing his job. Now it has gotten to the point that he will detect my seizures up to 5 minutes before it happens.
Tank has been an asset to our family especially during flash backs that I get where he would get between myself and anyone else so that I can be safe. He has been there when I break down and cry cause of extremely bad depression and anxiety attacks. He is not only a service dog, he is a hero, a family member and most importantly my best friend. I could not imagine what my life would still be without him. I can’t even imagine not being with him. I am grateful that Connie Hellwig from Feed the Dog, Inc. came along to help us with Tank's medical issues and assist us with food for Tank during our financial distress. Thank you, Connie for being our hero and helping Tank get better with his skin condition by supporting Tank with his medical bills and the food that he needs to stay healthy.
Semper Fi
Cpl R. Manuel
USMC Retired
