Doncaster Woman Celebrates Independence Thanks to Support Dogs and Bonbon

Angela Cooke, a resident of Doncaster, has spent nearly 20 years benefiting from the support of three incredible assistance dogs, and her journey with the charity Support Dogs has transformed her life in many ways. Angela's dedication to the charity is so strong that she has come up with some unique ways to honour the organisation that has given her independence and hope.

Angela's Journey with Support Dogs

Angela was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the young age of 13. Over the years, this condition led to various complications that have significantly impacted her physical health and mobility. For the past 40 years, Angela has faced challenges that have required her to adapt her daily life. However, the national charity Support Dogs has been a beacon of hope for her, providing trained assistance dogs that help her navigate these challenges. Angela discovered Support Dogs after spotting one of their blue jacket-clad dogs during a visit to her GP surgery. Intrigued, she looked the charity up online and soon began her journey with them. Over the years, Angela has partnered with three remarkable dogs: Siân, Freya, and her current support dog, Bonbon. Each dog has been specially trained to assist her with various tasks, such as:

• Picking up objects
• Opening doors
• Helping her to get undressed
• Alerting others when she needs help

Due to complications from her diabetes, Angela is registered as partially sighted and has difficulties with her hands and balance. She often walks with two crutches and sometimes uses a wheelchair.

Celebrating Independence

Angela's relationship with Support Dogs goes beyond just receiving help; she actively contributes to the charity’s mission. In 2017, she was named Support Dogs’ Client Fundraiser of the Year after completing a 28-mile sponsored trek along the Taff Trail in South Wales. This event was part of the charity's 25th anniversary celebrations, and Angela managed to raise nearly £400 to support their vital work. She was motivated by her husband Peter, son Daniel, and carer Angie, who all supported her during this challenge. Angela’s dedication is also reflected in her personal style. She has dyed her hair a vibrant shade of blue, which she affectionately calls “Support Dogs blue.” This eye-catching colour is her way of raising awareness for the charity and its life-changing cause. Additionally, she has a tattoo of the Support Dogs logo covering her forearm, further showcasing her commitment.

Life with Bonbon

In late 2023, Angela welcomed her latest support dog, Bonbon, into her life. After completing their training together, the pair graduated in November 2025. Angela describes Bonbon as “sharp” and incredibly helpful. “If she sees something that needs doing, she will do it,” she says, highlighting the strong bond and teamwork they share. Before Bonbon, Angela worked with her other support dogs, Siân and Freya. Siân, who was with Angela from 2010 until her retirement at the age of 10, helped Angela navigate daily life for many years. After Siân retired, Angela was provided with Freya, who also played a crucial role in her independence until her retirement in 2022. Freya now enjoys a happy life with a friend of Angela’s. Angela’s experiences with these dogs have had a profound impact on her emotional well-being. “Without Support Dogs, I would probably be in a permanent depression and wouldn’t have been able to live day by day,” she admits. Her dogs bring joy not only to her life but also to those around her. “People love seeing them working,” she adds, showcasing the positive influence these assistance dogs have on her community.

The Importance of Support Dogs

Support Dogs is a national charity that trains and provides specialist assistance dogs to help individuals with autism, physical disabilities, and epilepsy. These dogs play a vital role in helping their owners lead safer, more independent lives. The charity's work is made possible thanks to generous donations, including gifts left in wills, which contribute to the training and support of these remarkable animals. Angela’s story is a testament to the incredible bond between humans and their assistance dogs. Through her experiences, she has not only gained independence but has also become an advocate for the charity that has changed her life. As she continues to support Support Dogs in various ways, she hopes to inspire others to recognise the importance of these specially trained dogs. To learn more about the essential work done by Support Dogs, visit their website at www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800. The charity relies on the generosity of the community to continue making a difference in the lives of those in need.