A Friend for Lochie

Hi, I’m Lochie.

I am 13 years old and I have autism.

The main thing people say about me is that I am always smiling. I love to be with people and to play and run around. All I really want is to be included and liked and to have friends for playdates and outings and to play sports with. Unfortunately, kids can find it a bit hard to understand what I say, and get annoyed at me not understanding the rules of games – so they don’t want me to join in. Sometimes I get sad because I feel lonely. But I always keep on trying. I hope one day I can get invited to as many birthday parties and playdates as my brother and sister.

I LOVE dogs. I stop and pat every dog I see. We sometimes mind our friend’s dog when they go on holiday and I spend the whole time playing with them. We had a dog for a little while but she had to go and live with my grandparents when my mum got really sick. Then our dog got sick and died before she got to come back home. I often ask when we are getting another dog.

My family is very active and like to go on lots of adventures. I try to join in with most things, but I sometimes get anxious and we have to leave places early. Other times I can get over-excited, like when I watch sport, and become very loud, yelling and clapping. I'm not sure why, but then I can get really angry or upset and I have to go somewhere else.

When I get anxious, scared or angry, having a dog to hug and pat makes me feel better. I like to walk dogs because other kids play with me more when I have a dog with me. 

I want to do things for myself more and more. I love hugs and my family and I can’t wait to get a dog of my own.

Hi, I'm Lochie's mum Sonia.

We have applied for a companion dog for Lochie as they are specially trained to respond when he feels anxious or angry. They are a bit more expensive than your average pooch but we are sure it will be worth it for him. We'd love any help you can give and thank you in advance for your donation.