A cute, 14-month-old puppy became the star of the show when Rachael Titcombe was taken walkies earlier this month to raise money for the ME Association.
Willow, a rare cross between a Pomeranian and a Huskie called a Pomsky, took Rachael for a short walk every day on behalf of Rachael's 14-year-old daughter Allyssa, who’s had a horrid time since going down with ME three years ago.
“We bought Willow to keep Alyssa company after she had to drop out of school and lost touch with all her friends”, said Rachael, a former professional embroiderer who also became her daughter’s full-time carer.
“Alyssa has wanted a puppy for a really long time and she did all the research in finding the type she wanted. In the end, she chose Willow who basically is a bit of a mini-wolf but with a very gentle and affectionate nature. She loves loads of cuddles.”
It was back in 2021 when Alyssa first became poorly after an attack of glandular fever from which she didn’t recover. She had to leave school and only now manages to cope with a couple of hours a week of home tuition.
“Life for her changed completely”, said her mum. “Alyssa had literally spent just a few days in secondary school before having to stay at home. Her two old siblings have left home and, apart from her younger sister Ella, she sees no one of her own age on a daily basis.
“Thankfully, she is no longer as ill as she was and now has more ‘good days’ which she usually enjoys. While it’s still a life of isolation, Alyssa is still the most determined and strong-willed girl. She amazes me daily.”
Rachael took on Willow-walking duties for Alyssa’s charity challenge, despite her own problems with a bad back. The challenge was to walk a total of 10 miles, which they accomplished at a couple of miles a day.
They’ve been using the Walk for ME 2024 fundraising platform which, as the name suggests, encourages people to take on walking challenges for ME causes.
“It’s a real pleasure taking the little lady out for a trot. She’s so full of life and raring to go”, said Rachael.
Thank you, Rachael and Alyssa. If you’ve been impressed by their story, please donate a pound or two to their fundraising page at
https://www.justgiving.com/page/rachael-titcombe-1712421093147
Pictured, from the left: Alyssa with her puppy, Willow; up for some fun – that's Willow!; and Rachael with Willow.
Tony Britton
Senior Fundraising Consultant, The ME Association
tony.britton@meassociation.org.uk Mob: 07393 805566
