It has been quite the journey with my daughter Jalie.  She was diagnosed with high functioning autism in April 2023. Always knowing there was something more going on with her, it was such a relief to finally get an actual diagnosis at the age of 13. Even so, I’ve found it very difficult to get her the much needed services she needs to help her grow and become successful due to ongoing waitlists.

 Jalie is now 14 years old and has recently spent this last holiday season and her birthday in a psychiatric residential treatment facility. Having her away from home was never easy, nor ideal. Though it has helped to give us the insight we need in order to help Jalie make progress slowly over time. It breaks my heart to watch her struggle everyday, as if she’s battling within. It is known that service dogs can help children like Jalie. Tasks such as helping  her with emotional regulation, providing a loving distraction until coping skills can be applied, help her gain confidence in basic everyday situations, as well as provide a best friend that will never give up on her.

 We have come a long way, though it always seems to be just the beginning.  It’s difficult asking for help financially, but I’ll always do whatever it takes when it comes to my children and try harder for them. It will cost us $20,000 before we can be put in the next open spot in a placement training class for a service dog. My family and I would greatly appreciate any amount donated, as well as spreading the word to anyone and everyone to help us reach our goal.  We appreciate everyone who has taken the time to read this story about a wonderful young girl who has the potential for a brighter future with the love and continuous support of many.

 I've included information about 4 Paws For Ability, Inc. below. 

4 Paws for Ability is a non-profit organization that breeds, raises, trains, and places service dogs with children and veterans who have disabilities.

4 Paws for Ability places over 120 service dogs annually, all trained with specific tasks and skills to mitigate the impacts of their partner’s disabilities. 

To date, more than 1,800 service dog teams have been created thanks to the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and donors. 

Training a service dog to meet our child’s requirements can be very costly. On average it costs between $40,000-60,000 to raise, train, and place a service dog at 4 Paws for Ability. While 4 Paws for Ability fundraises to help cover a significant portion of this cost, families are tasked with raising $20,000 of that amount or $23,000 if receiving a poodle, doodle or papillon. We hope that we can receive assistance from our beloved family and friends to help make our service dog dream a reality.