Caroline is a charismatic and determined five year old who was born with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) which has resulted in diagnoses of cerebral palsy, dystonia, global developmental delay, swallowing difficulties, fine and gross motor delays, and sleep difficulties. These conditions impact every aspect of Caroline's life. For communication, Caroline uses facial expressions and an eye-gaze device. For feeding, she relies on a G tube for all necessary medications and liquids. Caroline uses a wheelchair for mobility in public spaces.
Given her love for dogs, we recently began researching how a service dog might benefit her and help our family. After extensive research, we found 4 Paws for Ability in Ohio. Their specialized training and three-person team approach are a perfect fit for Caroline's needs.
So how will a service dog help Caroline?
Some of the biggest challenges Caroline faces on a day-to-day basis are sleep, mobility, communication and feeding. The service dog will undergo basic and advanced training to perform specific tasks tailored to Caroline's needs including:
- Deep pressure therapy - to help calm Caroline when she becomes overwhelmed in public settings.
- Sleep support - The service dog will sleep with Caroline to help her fall asleep and settle back to sleep when she wakes during the night. We hope this will improve sleep quality for our entire family.
- Seizure Alert - basic seizure training to alert us if she has a seizure, given her medical history.
- Mobility Assistance - helping Caroline in public by pushing automatic door buttons.
- Companionship - providing constant support and companionship.
Once the dog enters advanced training, we will finalize the specific tasks based on Caroline's needs at that time.
What is the process to get a service dog?
It all starts with an application and interview process. We are excited to share that Caroline has been accepted to receive a service dog from 4 Paws for Ability! The cost to breed, raise, and train these amazing dogs for specialized tasks is not insignificant. The total cost is around $40,000 and we are responsible for $23,000. 4 Paws for Ability generously raises the balance. We are now beginning the fundraising process to cover our portion of the cost. Once we reach our fundraising goal, Caroline will then be added to the waitlist to be matched with a service dog to be trained specifically for her needs. This process takes 2 to 2.5 years. Three weeks before her placement training class, we will finally learn which dog is hers! At that time, we will connect with the dog's foster family to learn about its habits and favorite things! The last step is to attend a 10 day placement training class for Caroline and the dog to bond and start working together. Caitlin will be the handler in the three person team.
How can you help?
While we know this is a significant amount, we believe in the power of community and that by working together we can achieve this for Caroline.
Should you feel led to contribute, we are incredibly grateful for your support. While contributions are not tax deductible due to IRS regulations (as this is considered an "exchange of services" benefiting a specific individual), your generosity will make a life-changing impact.
If a financial contribution is not possible, please know that your love, prayers and encouragement mean the world to us as we start this new adventure.
Love,
Jeff, Caitlin, Liam, Charlotte and Caroline