How Jim Helped Juliet Overcome the Challenges of Vision Loss
As National Walk Your Dog Day approaches on 22nd February, Wirral University Teaching Hospital (WUTH) is shining a light on an inspiring story of resilience and companionship.
Juliet McShane, 51, who has lived with significant vision loss for over three decades, found a renewed sense of confidence and freedom thanks to her rescue dog, Jim.
Walking isn’t just a way to stay active for the WUTH clinical coder—it’s a lifeline that helps her navigate a world shaped by her disability.
Juliet was diagnosed at 18 with Stargardt disease, a juvenile form of macular degeneration that causes the deterioration of central vision. Having lost her ability to see clearly, Juliet, who has been a dedicated member of the Trust since 1993, relies on specialised magnification equipment to carry out her work and manage daily tasks. But her journey hasn’t been easy.
“Living with vision loss means I don’t see obstacles, I don’t have central vision, and my world can feel limited at times,” said Juliet. “I’ve always had to adapt, but it wasn’t until we adopted Jim that I realised how much more I could do.”
Jim, a 10-year-old Saluki cross with anxiety issues, came into Juliet’s life six years ago. Walking with him every day has profoundly improved her physical and mental wellbeing, allowing her to break through the barriers her condition imposes.
“Before Jim, I rarely walked for pleasure, and I wouldn’t venture far alone because it felt overwhelming. But now, Jim has given me the motivation and confidence to get out more. Knowing he enjoys it so much makes me push through my fears. Walking with him has become something I truly look forward to—it’s freedom.”
Of course, it wasn’t an easy start.
“When we first brought Jim home, it was chaos,” said Juliet. “He had never lived in a house before, and the mess was overwhelming. I honestly thought I might have to return him. But with the children at school and university, I had to take responsibility for him. That’s when our journey together really began.”
Taking Jim on regular walks in the local park became the turning point. With no prior experience in dog training, Juliet learned on the go, building a bond with Jim through persistence and patience. During the Covid pandemic, the trust and companionship grew – and with it, Juliet’s confidence.
Jim now acts as an unofficial guide for Juliet. While he isn’t a trained service animal, his natural instincts help her navigate the environment more safely.
She said: “When he’s on the lead, I trust him to avoid obstacles, and that gives me confidence. He’s made me love being outdoors again. My focus shifts from my disability to enjoying the moment with him.”
Juliet’s favourite walks include the paths along the Wirral Way, the beach between Hoylake and Red Rocks, and local green spaces where Jim can run freely. These walks aren’t just about exercise—they’re a way for Juliet to reconnect with the world, build her independence, and improve her overall wellbeing.
Jim has also helped Juliet overcome the social isolation often experienced by people with disabilities.
She said: “He’s a great conversation starter. I’ve always been quiet and reserved, but having Jim has made it easier to chat with other dog owners and people in the community. He brings joy not only to me but to those we meet.”
While Jim’s initial separation anxiety and lack of training initially tested Juliet’s patience, her resilience—a quality she’s relied on throughout her life—kept her going.
She added: “I didn’t want to give up on him. I’ve had to be strong to adapt to my disability, and I knew I could be strong for Jim too. Now, he’s a different dog—happy, playful, and completely at home with us.
“Walking with a dog is more than just physical activity—it’s freedom, companionship, and a reminder that we’re capable of more than we think. Jim has given me that gift.”