Lead With Luna: Meredyth’s Journey With Her Guide Dog

Meredyth Mason was unexpectedly diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) at 32 years old after a myriad of doctor’s visits to specialists all over the country. She underwent a full genetic testing panel in 2015, which officially confirmed she has the RP-causing gene known as MAK-1, which is of particular importance to people of Jewish ancestry.

“RP has changed my life in the last nine years in so many ways, but it’s changed it in a good way too,” says Meredyth. “I’d love to do all the things I used to do, but now I get to do new things that I never would have gotten the chance to do before I was diagnosed.”

Since her diagnosis, Meredyth has become very involved with the blindness community and dedicates her time outside of work to disability advocacy. Her journey with the Foundation Fighting Blindness began in 2008 when she first met Dr. Sandeep Grover, the Jacksonville chapter education chair. Dr. Grover introduced her to the Foundation, and over the years, he has been an incredible doctor, advocate, and friend.

After moving to the DC Metro area, Meredyth’s involvement with the Foundation deepened. She met Davida Luehrs, the current DC Metro chapter president, and together, they co-chaired the local VisionWalk. Despite moving frequently, Meredyth’s commitment to the Foundation remained. Meredith Tyree, another devoted community member and National Trustee, encouraged her to re-engage with the Foundation, and in 2021, Meredyth returned to Jacksonville and took on the leadership role of the chapter Accessibility, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (AIDE) Chair. Her passion for the Foundation stems from its wealth of scientific information and resources it provides, making her feel like part of an extended family.

“The Foundation gives you a sense of belonging,” says Meredyth. “It gives me an opportunity to feel like I’m a part of something. We’re an extended family, connected by our diseases.”

Meredyth is also passionate about her guide dog, Luna. Acquiring Luna wasn’t an easy journey for Meredyth. In 2022, after the passing of her family pet, Meredyth decided it was time for her to apply for a guide dog through Leader Dogs for the Blind. Meredyth recalls the application process to be long and emotional, involving a detailed application, doctor’s approvals, and recommendation letters. However, after an intense six weeks of submitting the application, only a few months later, Meredyth was called to come to Rochester Hills, Michigan, for a three-week training. And after initially being matched with another dog, Meredyth was then matched with Luna, and they formed an instant bond.

“As soon as they brought Luna to me, I knew she was my dog,” says Meredyth. “She’s literally me in a dog. She’s such a gift to me, and I’m so grateful for Leader Dogs for the Blind. It’s a relationship and partnership for life, they stay in touch and they’re there for you as a support system.”

Luna accompanies Meredyth everywhere, from running errands to traveling across the country. Their partnership has required a lot of hard work, discipline, and patience, but the rewards are immense.

“A guide dog is a tool that’s with you 24/7, and the lifestyle that you have to live with a guide dog can be hard,” says Meredyth. “You have to be able to advocate for yourself a lot. If you aren’t able to stand up for yourself and communicate your rights, it may not be the best fit for you.”

Meredyth advises others considering a guide dog to connect with someone who has experience. “Having a guide dog is a huge commitment,” she says. “The dog has gone through a lot before they even get to you. When you get your dog, there’s a process of bonding that can take six months to a year. It really takes time to feel like a team, and both feel confident. Be patient, loving, and supportive of them.”