PHOTOVOICE DAY 11 - A. Vallee


PHOTOVOICE - ARIANA'S DOGS ON HER BED


DAY #11 - "A LIGHT IN THE DARK" - Today's mental health awareness during COVID19 feature is Lewiston Youth Advisory Council (LYAC) member Ariana Vallee.  As part of the LYAC and Healthy Androscoggin Photovoice project, Ariana shares her source of hope during the COVID19 pandemic. 

"Growing up I have always had a dog companion with me. They’ve been there for me through good times, bad times, exciting times, and sad times. They can change my mood in a matter of seconds just by being there. Throughout the pandemic and the times of isolation from most things that were normal, they have been there for me more than they ever have been. Because they have been pretty much my only companions while we’ve been stuck inside.  They have gotten more attention than usual and have given me something to do all while keeping my spirits up.

My dogs are always happy and always seem optimistic. Their positive outlook gives me hope that everything will be okay and that the coming weeks, months, and year will (hopefully) be better than the months that have passed. Even when times have seemed like they were hopeless, they have continued to give me hope."