Blind Harvard graduate and guide dog Indio have visited 19 countries

Milagros Costabel, born prematurely in Uruguay at 700 grams and left blind by oxygen therapy, has defied expectations: she taught herself English, began writing for international media at 17, and recently graduated from Harvard University with a degree in Government and Human Rights. She now works as a consultant for the UN and writes about technology, AI, and accessibility. Her guide dog, Indio, has accompanied her to 19 countries, including places where guide dogs had never been, such as Egypt, where they were pioneers Source: lavanguardia.

The bond

Costabel describes the early months as challenging: Indio was a rehomed dog who had previously had another blind owner, and they traveled to the US just a week after being paired. She built their connection through puzzles, mental games, and intentionally getting lost together. She realized they were "one" when Indio began learning the names of frequent destinations, like her favorite pastry shop, without being taught Source: clarin.

Independence and speed

Costabel contrasts walking with a white cane versus a guide dog: with the cane, she had to constantly adjust and think, which was exhausting. With Indio, she walks faster than most people, a freedom she values immensely. "Having the freedom to walk fast with total security because your dog won't let anything happen to you is priceless," she says Source: clarin.

Activism

Her activism is summed up in her quote: "I don't want a seat at the table; I want to redesign the room" Source: lavanguardia. Both sources agree on her story, though lavanguardia notes her age as 23, while clarin says 25; the discrepancy is unresolved.