Most of us take for granted the ability to pull open a door, get up from our couch, or pick up a dropped pen. But for Amy Chally, a thirty-four-year-old licensed social worker, with spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy (CP), these simple tasks are a daily challenge. Determined not to let her CP hinder her ability to live a more independent life, Amy has overcome obstacles with courage, faith, the love of her family, and the help of Yazzen, a service dog, bred and trained by Canine Companions for Independence. Making Independence Happen, One Paw at a Time is a two-part memoir. Part one is Yazzen’s adventurous tale of his journey from a tiny pup to Amy’s invaluable partner in crime. Part two is Amy’s story detailing how she got started on her journey to receiving a service dog and her quest to fulfill her heart’s desire to help others as a social worker. A heartwarming testament to the powerful bond that exists between Amy and her dog Yazzen—a service dog who is her lifeline to independence, this inspirational story is also a closer look at what it’s like to live with physical differences—while dreaming, laughing, and loving just like everyone else. This heartfelt story of perseverance gives readers an inside look into Amy's life and inside her service dog Yazzen's life as well. The chapter from Yazzen's point of view reminded me of "The Art of Racing in the Rain." Being able to think like a dog, especially a service dog, is so fascinating and reading about the process through Yazzen's eyes was extremely engaging. Amy and Yazzen's bond was very apparent in this chapter and Amy's positive and bubbly personality shone throughout her writing as well! By Alison Librarian, Naperville Public Library The author does a Phenomenal job! By Jamie I have tears streaming down my eyes, Thank you for sharing your story and putting things into perspective! You are an amazing person, Amy! This book is an easy read at only 36 pages and it is filled with the candor, humor and determination that has always defined Chally's refusal to let anything stand in the way of her goals. Denise Crosby, reporter, Aurora Beacon-News Absolutely loved this book!!! By Sandie I've read it twice - The author did a remarkable job writing it and I love how positive of a person she is. It reminded me of the phrase "To dream of the person you'd like to be, is to waste the person you are." I'm sure anyone with disabilities would feel good after reading this book - giving them hope that they can achieve things too. I also learned a lot about the process and training service dog's and their handler's go through - I had no idea. An inspiring and educational look at capable canines - By Gerald A. Metz, M.D. Lifted up by a combination of stubborn determination and her religious faith Amy Chally and her service dog present an inspiring and educational look at capable canines and the work they can do to lighten the burden of those of us who tackle unusual challenges. "A touching story of how faith, a special pup, and a pawsitive attitude changed one woman's life."--Kelsey Browning, author of the Prophecy of Love series. Amy Chally is a thirty-four-year-old licensed social worker who has spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy. The condition, caused by trauma to the brain, usually at or shortly after birth, makes it difficult for her to move or control the muscles in her arms and legs. For her everyday mobility needs, Chally utilizes a power chair and the help of her service dog, Yazzen-a black Labrador and golden retriever mix bred by Canine Companions for Independence.