Finding Harmony

by Sally Hyder

Heartwarming, inspirational and genuinely touching, Finding Harmony is the remarkable true story of an extraordinary dog that rescued a woman from the depths of depression and transformed a family for ever. A keen mountaineer, Sally Hyder was in her prime and loving life. She shared her passion for climbing with her partner Andrew and it was a dream come true when Andrew proposed at Everest Base Camp. For them, climbing mountains made anything seem possible and represented their attitude to life.But a year after Sally and Andrew were married Sally was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. She was only 28 and was training to be a Macmillan nurse - she wanted to care for the terminally ill. But Sally was determined the disease wouldn't slow her she went back to work looking after others and, despite warnings that her condition could deteriorate in pregnancy, went on to have three beautiful children.But it was when her youngest child Melissa was diagnosed with severe autism that Sally began to spiral into depression. Sally felt guilty about the pressures faced by her elder daughter Clara in her role as carer. Sally worried that she was missing out on the freedom of childhood.She needed help. Unsure who to turn to, she happened upon Canine Partners and an extraordinary dog called Harmony. They formed an instant bond; Harmony can perform over 100 chores - from putting groceries into the trolley to handing over Sally's purse at the till. Harmony is an unending source of she intuitively knows when Sally is in pain and calms Melissa when she suffers panic attacks.Harmony has given Sally the ability to start living once more, and become a mother again in her own way. She has shown Sally that the sky's the limit and, with a taste for independence that she hadn't felt since her mountaineering days, Sally's sights are set on the peaks of Ben Nevis once more.In August 2010 Sally planned to climb the hardest of the Munro Mountains. Sadly her attempt was thwarted after her motorised wheelchair short-circuited. But Sally is a fighter and is training for her second attempt, which she will complete with her husband by her side. And Harmony too, of course.

Genres: Nonfiction

Paperback

First published February 3, 2011

Reviews

[LIndsay · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book was utter rubbish. I love books about dogs. I usually love books about dogs and their people. I have read many memoirs about dogs and enjoyed them all. I have read memoirs about assistance dogs and enjoyed them but this was nonsense. I am being harsh I know but I have gone to sleep the last few nights thinking about the terrible reviews I will give this book and today I took the brave step of deciding not to even finish the damn thing and just slating it anyway. What a waste of my time.

Main issues with this text:-

I do not expect this genre to be particularly well written - that is not the point but this really dragged - it was dull and didn't move me at all.

I don't care about her fabulous talented husband and children - the writer (and I use the term loosely) harps on about her fantastic children ad nauseaum.

I would have expected the main charedter 'Harmony' to have been introduced fairly early on the book, not over half way through. I had to put up with 150 pages of sactimonuius outpourings ragarding the writer's wonderful yet tragic life before we even met the bloody dog!

I hate books where the writer insists on harping on about their faith - I DON'T CARE. It actually makes me cringe when people who have been struck down with a life-limiting illness such as MS and have other misfortunes heaped upon them preach about their faith. There was a particularly sick-making bit that I would have underlined to tell you about if it hadn't been a library book - but I can't find it now and I have wasted enough time.

I did read as far as P 236 of 294 - I kept hoping the damn bopok would redeem itself but it just wasn't going to. All I have missed is a trip to a garden party to see the queen (Yawn)and then some attempt to climb Ben Nevis or something.

The whole book is about HER not Harmony the dog. Yukk!

[Kay Cugini · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this hook, I didn't mind that the first half was about the authors' life before her canine partner as it is relevant and interesting, having read My Life In His Paws it was lovely to read more about the charity Canine Partners and the great work they do

[Jennifer Morefield · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. My only critique would be that it should have been more about the dog. The dog was a character in the story but not the main character. However, I loved the story of Sally and found her to be such a strong individual that I really admired. Two friends that I have have MS and was really appreciative to get to learn more about that disease through Sally's story. Also, the daughter's story of autism was very wonderful as well. A strong family that weathers their storms well is a great story. Loved it!

[Judy Churchill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Harmony is a mixed breed yellow lab who becomes a helper dog for the author who has MS. It is well written and very inspirational but a little wordy. Having the dog gives the author a feeling of independence and that has a very positive effect on the family.

[Debbie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was an interesting story but it was very poorly written (like a high school student!) My DIL is an author and hasn't had much luck getting published and when I read a book like this, I can't understand why. If this author can get published, anyone should be able to!

[Kavita Sharma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finding Harmony is a book I picked up on instinct and it turned out to be a heart warming and inspirational read. I was looking for an easy read to be read while travelling and it was apt choice. Real life stories are always heartening as we draw lot of motivation from ordinary people like us and this one was indeed special as one of the main character of the book was an irresistable compassionate Blonde Labrador, Harmony.
Sally Hyder and her husband Andrew are mountaineers who both loved climbing peaks and that's what they intend to do forever. But God had different plans for them. Sally was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, a nervous disorder wherein she tends to go into spasms and was unable to do simple task and she was finally bound to wheelchair. She fought all odds and continued to work. They had two children and despite knowing her critical condition she gave birth to their third child, Melissa who was diagnosed with Autism.Dealing with MS and an autistic child pushed her into depression.
Canine Partner, is an organization that helps disabled people by providing assurance dogs was her only hope. After multiple visits and undergoing a gruelling training session, she chooses Harmony, who helped her with daily chores like wearing socks, picking up stuff, openings doors, picking up groceries at store, manages her in emergencies and multiple other chores.
Assurance dogs are extraordinary and so unlike normal pets as no cuddling and love in any form is allowed from strangers or other family members. These dogs are always at work and ensuring safety and love to their partners is their only priority. Inspite of this, it's interesting to know how Harmony has a calming effect on Melissa, Sally's autistic daughter. Harmony and Sally's bond is so strong and unique. Harmony is Sally's never- ending source of comfort and it's so interesting to know how Harmony brings to much hope, happiness and contentment into Sally's life and gave her confidence to try new adventures. Sally finally climbs a peak in Boma alongwith Harmony.Overall a very easy read, with lot of beautiful moments to cherish, full of positivity. Though last few pages were a bit draggy and boring.

[Linda Dickerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic, informative, heartwarming true story

Wow, what a wonderful and inspirational book of courage and determination! Sally Hyder has done a magnificent job of helping the reader to understand the challenges a person with MS endures and how important an Assistance Dog is to their everyday life.

In the 1980s, I watched the Walt Disney movie " Love Leads the Way" about the first Guide Dog for the blind and was greatly moved by the loyalty and dedication of these wonderful dogs. This book was like a continuation of that story. Thank you Sally Hyder for writing this beautiful story about your brave, courageous journey and your precious and very special partner, Harmony. This true story will stay with me as the Disney movie of another special dog has for over 35 years. What an inspiration you and Harmony have been for me! God bless you, your precious family and Harmony. 💖🙏💖

[Katie Brock · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this book because it was about a dog and for the half of this book about the Canine Partners training and how Sally’s life changed when Harmony came home with her, it was a really lovely read.

The first half of the book focuses on Sally’s life, from her engagement and marriage to her MS diagnoses and the birth of her three children, the youngest of which is autistic, adding more stress to her life as a disabled mother- and not being able to help her child when she needs too.

So Harmony was a life line for them!

The author speaks very highly of her family and her faith, it was lovely to read but I do always feel a little awkward when a writer mentions their faith a lot. I know it means a lot but I also feel it doesn’t need to be thrown in the readers face so to speak.

I am glad I read this book as it educated me, an able bodied person, on how tough it can be for those who are disabled. It also showed me how well trained assistant dogs can be and that they’re still normal dogs.

I’m always tempted to stroke an assistant dog when I see one but I never do- as they’re usually working.

Overall, I’d give this book a 3.5/5 stars. Slow start but educational and enjoyable towards the end.

[Clarice · Rating 5 out of 5]

MS encourager

An excellent motivator for people who do not have to deal with mobility issues to not take that for granted, and to keep exercising to keep mobil. But an encouraging book for those who have mobility issues to not give up, to not be afraid to ask for help, and to find someone who can help find help, such as a service dog or special wheelchair - anything to help you get out into the world beyond your home.

[Caryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story of courage, strength and woman’s best friend! Sally Hyder was a force to be reckoned with before MS progressed and stole some of her independence. Then she got Harmony! Specially trained, this dog was an enrichment to Sally and her entire family, especially Melissa her autistic daughter. A new sense of freedom and accomplishment is what Harmony helped Sally gain.

10 stars wouldn’t be enough for Sally, her loving family and Harmony!

[Pauline Horner · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are a lover of dogs, then this book is definitely for you. An amazing story about a family faced with adversity and how their lives are made easier by a beautiful working Labrador called Harmony. It gives the reader insight into the intensive training that working dogs have to undergo, in order to assist a person with a disability. Wonderful story.

[beth derring · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pleasantly surprised

I started this book because it was about a dog, ended up its also about a person with MS, which I have recently been diagnosed with. I was pleasantly surprised with this book. It was enjoyable and an easy read.

[Michele Pariseau · Rating 2 out of 5]

Harmony

I choose it to read about Harmony. I'm sorry but I didn't want to read about the new parent life before Harmony.A little bit would have been wonderful. More about Harmony with her puppy parents would gotten a10 from me

[Anna Geddes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Half a dog book

I was interested increasing about Harmony and how she helped this disabled woman. I got was her own story for 50% of the book. What there was was good but I would have wanted more about Harmony

[Rosalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an informative book about a service dog and a woman with MS. Once into it I could not put it down.

[Loretta Hartman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspiration a l

I enjoyed reading Finding Harmony. It was hard to put down. I would recommend it to every one who love s dogs and love s to read inspirational stories.

[Leanna Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love harmony.!!!!!

This story made me feel good about life! Animal
s who help the disabled people are great !!!!! I love harmony!!!

[Joann Elrod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

Have an on-site into the life a person with MS endures. Plus the process to choosing a dog to assist her was fascinating.

[Fran Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

This book helps one know about ME and it's trials. It also tells about guide dogs and how they are trained. A wonderful book!

[Jane Bunting · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this true story of love, support and devotion of Harmony and Sally, and her family. ❤

[Shannon · Rating 1 out of 5]

Disappointed thought this was about a dog but it was about the person bit misleading

[Alison · Rating 3 out of 5]

not what I expected but a very enlightening read

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am struggling with what to say in this review. Along with other reviewers, I had a hard time getting through the first half. I, too, thought I'd be reading a book about a dog and this was more a book about Sally Hyder's life...both before and after learning she had MS. At times I thought I didn't care about the early years, hurry up and get to the dog part. I also felt frustrated by how the story jumped around and was sometimes hard to follow. Once I realized this is more like reading her sometimes very personal diary (or a long letter to a friend), I relaxed and just went with it. In the end, I was glad I had stuck with it. Sally has had more challenges than some of us will ever have and she has gotten through all of them. I loved her sense of humor. It's a beautiful illustration of how her partner dog, Harmony, changes life not just for her but for her entire family. It paints a picture of how someone who has to rely on people for the everyday things we take for granted can suddenly realize some independence. But best of all, it's a great story about how someone/anyone can choose to overcome adversity and take on challenges that seem impossible. For me, the end made it all worth reading! Charge on, Sally!

[Lauren · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book really needed some major editing. I wouldn't have been happy if I hadn't picked this up as Amazon's daily deal and had paid full price. I so badly wanted to get into this book, but there wasn't enough detail in certain parts (like when she said she wanted to kill herself because she was depressed. talked to someone. and it was over... all in 3 pages) to too much in others (2 paragraphs about how one part of her climbing team cancelled last minute and the hotel was kind enough not to charge them?? Or shopping for a dress for a chapter making so much of a point about how wheelchair inaccessible our world is? I want feeling and emotions, not things I already know). The author did have something here, and so often I wanted to truly feel how she was feeling as I have with so many of these types of books, but it was lacking and needed more editing.

As others have said, this book is about 25% about the dog and the rest about the start of her life (40%) and then coping with MS and then becoming a spokesperson. Once I got over that, I enjoyed learning what someone with MS has to go through.

[Adelheid · Rating 3 out of 5]

I agree with several of the reviews, that the book is more about Sally than about the dog, but even so it makes for an interesting story. I found that the first part seemed to be a race through Sally's pre-Harmony days, and Sally comes over as quite a chaotic and stressed individual. The time line is often confusing with all the jumping backward and forward. It often confused me as to where they were living at that particular moment. Also, you have no idea how time develops. How old are the children? Once Harmony enters the scene there are too many details about the individuals whom she encounters at canine partners (it reads more like an advertisement for them). It also seems to take forever before the two are "certified partners". It makes me wonder how that would work with a mentally disabled person who can't learn all those commands. Nonetheless, the book kept me reading and I am glad I finished it.

[Kirsti · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this book second hand, expecting the usual uplifting animal story. After all, the cover has a cute puppy, the by line says "The remarkable dog that helped a family through the darkest of times' and the blurb is about the dog. The problem though, is the story isn't really about the dog, but about Sally herself. I say 'problem', in that I expected an animal story and got a human story. The dog is like a side line, a way to sell the book, when the story wasn't much dependent on the dog as the author spends most of the book talking about her life before the dog. I did enjoy it, it just wasn't what I expected. It was a good, uplifting story, I just wish there had been more focus on Harmony, and not so much on Sally's life beforehand; that's what i thought I was getting when I picked the book up, after all.

[Gemma · Rating 3 out of 5]

My best friend has recently been diagnosed with M.S. so I found this quite difficult to read in parts. After a brief introduction to Harmony in the Prologue, we don't meet her again until we are more than half way through which is rather disappointing! I do think the title and cover are very deceiving as I thought there would be much more focus on the animal-human relationship here but the first half is a memoir of life 'before Harmony'. I disagree with some of the more negative comments on here; I don't think this is poorly written as such, though it can be confusing how she jumps around in time at a tangent! It's a decent memoir all in all, but should have been packaged more appropriately for a slightly different audience.

[Judith Crichfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Your life is what you make of it

And you've done an awesome job of it! I loved everything about it. You missed your calling, and hope you do a sequel. Our lives have many parallels--kids with disabilities, my own disability with neck pain after a huge spinal fusion resulting from scoliosis, love of travel, love of dogs-- especially the joy that is inherent in golden retrievers, especially a well-trauned one who lives to please and bring fun and love to our lives. I love your spirit and your writing was exceedingly well done. Only someone who lives with chronic pain could possibly understand what an effort this story took to be written at all, but to have managed to accomplish so many successes in your life is awesome. A wonderful story! Tell us more!

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderfully inspiring book by a friend of mine, about all the challenges of her life with Multiple Sclerosis and as the mother of a disabled child. She writes about how finding Harmony, an assistance dog from the British charity Canine Partners, has given her the resources, practically and spiritually, to cope with those challenges. Sally is undoubtedly a remarkable lady - she climbed the foothills of Everest when she was able-bodied and Ben Nevis when she was disabled - there is just no stopping her! She has an amazing family around her, and now an amazing dog to help her stay independent. Wonder what she'll get up to next.

[Teri · Rating 3 out of 5]

The bulk of the story is about Sally and her life with MS... but once she is given Harmony as a working dog, the story picks up. It is an uplifting story of a disabled woman and her loyal companion. Anyone who knows the unconditional love of a dog....will enjoy this book. It makes you want to give your dog a "cuddle".