Matthew grew up in Eastern North Carolina, and has always been an avid fisherman. He came from a family of military men and remembers always wanting to serve his country. He joined the Marine Corps as an Infantryman, and five years later was medically retired after the job took its physical and mental toll on him. He has severe hearing loss, nerve damage in one eye, and was later diagnosed with PTS.
CHAMP helps Matt live a more normal life. He is not a fan of crowds, waiting time, or stressful environments, and because of this, has missed out on a lot of time with his wife and children. CHAMP alerts to alarms and knocks at the door. He also anchors Matt’s anxiety, and pays attention in public, lessening Matt’s hypervigilance. With CHAMP by his side, Matt looks forward to a happier and healthier future with his family.
CHAMPION is an Honor Puppy named in honor of 1SGT John R. “Champ” Champion Jr., U.S. Army.
