The WAGATHON is a cumulative marathon that you and your dog can do anywhere, at your own pace throughout the month of September. The goal is to hit 26.2 miles by September 30th – all while raising critical funds to support Guiding Eyes for the Blind’s mission to provide guide dogs to people with vision loss. It’s an opportunity for people and dogs alike to stay active and do good.

Guiding Eyes for the Blind changes lives by connecting amazing people with extraordinary dogs. For individuals who are blind or visually impaired, a Guiding Eyes dog means freedom, confidence, and the opportunity to experience all of life's adventures - big and small. From Home Training to Specialized Training to Running Guides and more, Guiding Eyes' pioneering programs are individualized to each student. Together, these dogs are paired with just the right student - and both their lives are forever changed. You can be a part of this life-changing mission by making a donation today!

Thank you for your support!




My personal experience-

After years of enduring night blindness and poor vision as a child, I was eventually diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa during a routine eye exam in high school. A rare, genetic and progressive eye disorder with no cure. After losing a substantial amount of my vision again in my mid 20’s, I was assigned an Orientation and Mobility Instructor to help me navigate safely, confidently and independently with my environment.

And thus began my adventure of getting a guide dog.

After some thought, research, and speaking to my first friend with low vision, (who was already handling her first guide dog from Guiding Eyes for the Blind) I decided to go through the application process for my first guide dog. After the process and receiving word that I was accepted, I began at home training during the Covid pandemic which didn’t work out as I had hoped. After taking some time and feeling more prepared and confident in myself I was again accepted to the program and graduated with my first guide dog in the summer of 2023.

I couldn’t be more grateful to all the employees at Guiding Eyes for all of their support and understanding after so many years of struggling and self doubt. This program has truly changed my life and I am so blessed to have met so many wonderful and kind people during the entire process and creating forever friendships. This is just a summary of MY journey but Guiding Eyes for the Blind has trained and placed thousands of guide dogs with people living with low vision since its founding. I could never thank all the people involved in the process of caring, training, and placing these dogs enough. It truly is a life changing program.

- Jennifer