TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) - A rare disease forced Vail veteran Christina “Risti” Keith to retire from the Air Force.

Now, she’s found a new partner - and freedom - with “Lion.”

“He’s a super dog,” Keith said.

Lion, a service dog paired with Keith at no cost to her by America’s VetDogs , has changed her life.

Keith served in the Air Force for 15 years, flying combat rescue missions. Then, while stationed in Japan, she noticed some odd symptoms.

“It can manifest as muscle weakness, which, if it affects your eyes, gives you double vision, not really ideal for pilots,” Keith said.

She was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, a rare autoimmune disease. She had to retire from the military.

“You go from ‘Hey, you’re flying these super cool helicopters - having the time of your l

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