Team Teesside support success for Dion and Oreo

Dion Watts, and Oreo are a fantastic example of how Team Teesside transforms lives.

Dion shared her graduation day experience with an email to Professor Paul Croney, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Teesside University. We are proud to support our students who need some assistance during their studies, and especially at graduation. Every Teesside graduate deserves to be able to celebrate their amazing achievement.

‘I just wanted to take a moment to say the biggest thank you. You didn’t know me, or my situation, or how much it took to get my degree, or even get on that stage, but on graduation day you made such a difference—more than you probably realise. I have seizures, and one of my biggest fears leading up to that moment on stage was having one in front of everyone. That’s actually what Oreo is trained for, he’s my medical alert dog.

But when I met you, everything changed. You made it all feel so normal, not so formal, and so relaxed. You turned what could’ve been one of the most stressful moments of my life into something that felt easy. Just having a simple, kind conversation with you took all that pressure off and gave me space to breathe. It meant the world to me.

I’ll never forget the moment you shook Oreo’s paw—honestly, that little gesture was everything. It’s a memory I’ll always hold close. You didn’t have to give me the time of day, as I know how busy you were, but you did. You didn’t have to go out of your way to make me feel seen and safe, but you did. And Oreo absolutely adored you for it.

So truly — thank you. For your kindness, for your time, and for helping make that day so much more special than I ever thought it could be. With deep gratitude.'

Dion Watts & Oreo BSc (Hons) Crime and Investigation, First Class Honours

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