April 3, 2009 by Tim Saunders
American Idol judge Paula Abdul will be in Palm Springs on Sunday, April 5, to congratulate seven U.S. veterans as they receive their guide dogs.
The veterans – who include a veteran who has participated in three wars – recently completed training to live with their canine companions and will participate in the graduation ceremony. The veterans will receive the dogs from Guide Dogs of the Desert, an organization based in Palm Springs that improves the lives of the blind by creating opportunities for life-changing independence, and by conducting community outreach and education programs. The organization provides safe mobility, loving companionship and the “miracle of independence” to the blind through the use of a guide dog
“As an animal lover, it’s my honor to help raise awareness for [the] invaluable organizations who give so much help to the blind,” said Abdul. “I hope everyone will contribute to this program.”
Paula Abdul is known for her support of guide dog issues, and recently signed up to help Dick Van Patten’s Natural Balance, Petco, and independent pet stores raise awareness and money for guide dog organizations across the country. She will be participating in a number of events throughout May – National Guide Dog Month – to raise awareness of guide dogs and their role in the community.
Sunday’s event takes place at the Guide Dog Campus on Dillon Road in Whitewater (just outside Palm Springs) at 2pm. More information about Guide Dogs of the Desert and the event can be found here.
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4 comments
Awe, Paula is sooo sweet! Today on twitter she said shes on her way to give the Guide Dogs to the blind veterans though & its april 3rd & u say april 5th!
The Guide Dog Graduation is April 5th at the Guide Dogs of the Desert in Palm Springs. Paula was just on her way out to Palm Springs for the event when she Twittered.
I saw Paula in a pet store in Palm Springs with a sweet chiwauaua. Silly me I was attracted to the dog since I love small dogs. I asked about the dog and when I finally looked at her I knew it was really her. So do I ask her all sorts of questions--I decided not and let her be a regular person buying a bed for her dog. She was a lot prettier than I thought and quite petite. She was very nice to me and I hope she got a kick out of it -- I think she saw in my face when I recognized her.
I saw Paula by accident in Petco when I went to pick up some dog food for my Bichon. I didn't know who she was bcs I don't watch American Idol or much TV. I'm not a star struck kind a person and have met many. I did recognize Dick Van Pattern. I watched bcs I love dogs or animals in general and thought it was a great cause. I found Paula's energy "real" and centered which must be challenging having so many people around her all day. I was impressed with her generousity, kindness and sweetness. She's got my vote bcs of how down to earth she is and took the time to take a picture with me. I don't normally ask any celebrity for any autographs, let alone a photo. My friend who does watch American Idol informed me to check out what they were saying about her and I was suprised and shocked. Paula has been through many challenging health problems and the tabloids just riped her apart. Wow! I'm glad that I don't keep up with this kind of gossip. How does she do it-probably sticks to her own truth. I did ask her hair stylist if she needed a great Bodyworker but they were too busy to engage so I sent him my link. Then after finding out that she had 14 surgeries and neck pain with RSD-I knew she could use my help! Hopefully she'll receive my web-site and give me a call. I'm glad she is so approachable and real!She is all heart and you can feel it when she gives you a hug!
Go Paula!
12 months ago