Even though having a dog requires a lot of extra work on my part to keep him groomed, entertained during his play time, and picking up after him, the laughter and love Charlie gives me more than make up for it. On those days when I may be feeling down about the changes in my life that I can't control related to having CMT, his zest for living and the joy he brings me help chase the gloomies away.

I also have a cat named Jack who does his part to add enjoyment to my life.

Please forgive the rumpled state of this letter. In the excitement of welcoming me home, Charlie swept it off the table with his big, bushy tail and danced the dance of joy on it before I could rescue it from beneath his paws!