Stephanie Waterman

Yesterday Mom booked my very last work flight on @SouthwestAir for April 25. We are flying to San Diego so Mom can give a presentation on accommodating service dog handlers in science laboratories to the Southwestern chapter of the Biological Safety Information Network (BioNet) which promotions biological safety throughout California. The support specialist with @SouthwestAir said he requested the crew give me a final sign off on our flight on April 25 for my retirement after 9 1/2 years of dedicated service. Over my career I flew over 50,000 miles assisting Mom while she traveled the US advocating for others with Empower Ability Consulting (EAC). She says I leave behind a legacy of accessibility and inclusiveness for so many across the globe (in 8 countries), our scope has gone even beyond science in the most recent years. When we began our journey service dogs were not allowed in most science labs. Now the barriers are coming down because we never gave up. When I began service Mom was recovering from a brain injury and studying neuroscience and could not communicate, now she gives presentations and travels extensively to advocate. EAC expanded last year beyond academics into the employment sector and science industry, the entertainment industry, travel industry, and has developed a team of diverse disability, employment, science, and legal experts. We are working with governmental bodies to change policies to be inclusive. We’re potentially going to be testifying in a Congressional Hearing to change exclusionary language in the CDCs Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL), 6th edition. We’ve written a book about our adventures which we hope is published soon. And so much more! I’ve been by her side every step - one paw print at a time. Our mission is to make the world universally inclusive. When I retire, after my last trip to San Diego Pax Bellator, my successor will take over. I will remain here with Mom, Marshal Jim, Pax, and the Muppets as the CED (Chief Executive Dog)! While in San Diego, after my final work commitment Mom and Marshal Jim are taking me to the beach for my retirement party - so I can swim in the ocean, roll in the sand, and watch the sunset. As I tippy-tap this I need to comfort Mom, she has tears in her eyes. They are not tears of sadness but rather, tears of love, respect, admiration, gratefulness, gratitude, and memories. I will remain here with Mom, Marshal Jim, Pax, and the Muppets and oversee EAC as the CED (Chief Executive Dig)! Best! Life! Ever!