As the new academic year dawns, the familiar rhythms of classroom life have begun to resonate once again for students and faculty across the spectrum. Notably, in Broken Arrow, a third-grade class has welcomed a most unusual addition to their daily proceedings.
The classroom is presided over by Ms. Jadyn Means, a tenacious educator who has recurrently stood against severe allergies that she has battled since her 13th year. Particularly susceptible to peanuts and tree nuts, Ms. Means is, however, equipped with an effective ally – her service dog, Minnie, who has the uncanny ability to perceive an impending allergic reaction and alert her, thereby preempting anaphylactic shock.
“I have observed that Minnie can pick up changes in my physical condition by smelling and licking my hands,” shares Ms. Means. This invaluable aid provides her with a crucial window of three to five minutes before the onset of an allergic reaction. Minnie, a cherished companion since last November, underwent intensive training from January through mid-March, mastering obedience and then graduating to a comprehensive service animal curriculum. For Ms. Means, who endures mild allergic reactions eight to ten times per week, and sporadic bouts of anaphylaxis, Minnie’s presence is a godsend.
To the third-grade students, Minnie is more than just a silent sentinel watching over their beloved teacher; she symbolizes a comforting symbol of security and resiliency. “The one constant, apart from the sporadic nature of allergic incidents, is the reassurance that comes from knowing there’s always someone watching over and protecting me,” states Ms. Means, voicing her gratitude for Minnie who allows her not just to safeguard her health, but also to concentrate wholeheartedly on her students and lessons. Indeed, the team of Ms. Means and Minnie embodies a blend of courage, strength, and excelling under adversity- a living lesson for their young pupils.
