Double Graduation Joy for Milly and See Differently Guide Dog Bixby

See Differently held its annual Guide Dog Graduation at the Adelaide Festival Centre, on Friday 25 July 2025, marking the beginning of five life-changing partnerships between expertly trained guide dogs and their new handlers.

Among the heartwarming stories of the day was the bond between 17-year-old Milly and See Differently Guide Dog Bixby – a team that first captured hearts during See Differently’s recent Fundraising Tax Appeal.

For Year 12 student Milly, 2025 is a year of big milestones as she also prepares to graduate from high school.

Legally blind since birth, Milly has often felt left behind as her peers gained independence – learning to drive, going out alone, and navigating the world more freely. That all began to change when she was matched with Bixby, a loyal black Labrador professionally trained by See Differently to guide, support, and empower.

“Bixby has completely transformed my life,” Milly said.

 “When you’re legally blind, it’s harder to do simple things like go to school or grab a few things at the supermarket. I don’t want to be stuck at home waiting for someone to help me get out – I want to be in charge of my own life. I want to be independent, and Bixby gives me the confidence and ability to do it.”

Since partnering with Bixby, Milly now takes public transport on her own – including plane travel – attends school more confidently, and is chasing her sporting dreams, which include playing for the Australian Women’s Blind Cricket Team.

Taking to the stage at the graduation, See Differently – Executive Director, Damian Papps reflected on the power of these partnerships.

“These dogs are more than guides – they open the door to independence, opportunity, and confidence,” he said.

He added that the Guide Dog program, which in 2026 marks its 20-year milestone, is part of See Differently’s broader commitment to lifelong support.

“Our graduates go on to lead more independent lives, and as their needs evolve, See Differently is there to support them – whether that’s through advocacy, assistive technology, orientation and mobility training, or other personalised services,” he said.

Mr Papps also acknowledged the volunteers, donors, trainers, corporate partners and the broader community whose contributions make these life-changing connections possible.

“It truly takes a team effort to raise a Guide Dog and prepare both dog and handler for the journey ahead,” he said.

See Differently extends its gratitude to the Honourable Claire Clutterham MP, Federal member for Sturt, the Honourable Sarah Andrews MP, Member for Gibson, and the Honourable Dana Wortley MP, the Member for Torrens for joining us on the day to celebrate the five graduating teams.

See the celebration! Watch Channel 10 News Adelaide footage of the graduation here >> https://bit.ly/2025SeeDifferentlyGuideDogGraduationChannel10