Jackson's Service Dog Fundraiser

Organization Image

A nonprofit fundraiser supporting

4 Paws for Ability Inc
Fundraiser image

$10,826

raised by 144 people

$20,000 goal

Thank you for taking the time to read about Jackson, my 5 year old son.  Jackson is, quite possibly, the happiest boy you will ever meet.   He loves to laugh, smiles all the time, and uses his dimples and long lashes to flirt with the ladies!  He makes friends everywhere we go whether it be kids, the mailman, or neighbors walking down the street.  Jackson loves anything with wheels – cars, trucks, tractors, trains, etc.  He is learning soccer, loves music class, and his favorite game is hide and seek.  

Jackson was adopted in September 2020 from Foster Care.  He has a diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy.  Jackson spends more than 4 hours a week in physical and occupational therapy.  He wears braces on his legs to help stabilize him and stretch his muscles.  Jackson has been identified as a candidate for a service dog through 4 Paws for Ability.  Jackson’s dog will be trained specifically for him and his needs.  The main focus will be to alert me when Jackson has a seizure.  His seizures occur in the morning so it’s really hard to get ready for the day without constant supervision.  It’s just Jackson and me at home, so this will allow Jackson more independence and give me a sense of security knowing he’s not alone.  Jackson’s service dog will also be trained as a physical support to help Jackson maneuver more independently.  One example being, Jackson cannot stand from sitting independently.  His service dog will act as a table to give Jackson the support he needs.  Finally, the service dog will be trained as an emotional support animal to help Jackson recover from his seizures, cuddle him at night, and become his best friend.  

A service dog from 4 Paws for Ability costs between $40,000-$60,000 to raise, train, and place with a family.  We are responsible for $20,000 of that cost.  This is also a very lengthy process.  After we secure the funds, it will take an additional 1-2 years to find the perfect dog for Jackson.  

Jackson has taught me more about life than I could’ve ever imagined.  He hasn’t had the easiest start to life but that hasn’t hindered his determination or his positive attitude.  He continues to defy the odds.  I was told he may never walk or have the cognitive ability to live alone, and yet here he is racing across the soccer field and spelling his sight words in class.  He works hard every single day to do normal tasks and very rarely complains.  He always wants to try new things, never letting his limitations stop him.  My hope is that this service dog will give him the independence he needs to be successful.  

So many people have helped and supported us already.  We are forever grateful for our village.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.  


This fundraiser supports

organization image

4 Paws for Ability Inc

Organized By Kristen Metevia

Giving Activity

Comments

Log in to leave a comment. Log in