Service Dog for Sam

I'm Maggie Diemer, and I'm starting this GoFundMe page on behalf of my son, Samuel.

We are seeking funding to certify his dog Max, as his certified service dog.

Samuel is a vibrant, energetic, hilarious, and sensitive 10 year old boy. He's also a boy who struggles greatly. Coping with the ups and downs of life can be incapacitating at times. His father and I began the journey towards Samuel's healing two years ago when it became apparent that Samuel's struggles exceeded those typical for a boy his age. After numerous diagnoses and countless interventions, we've had some things help, and many things not. But one thing that's stood out in its ability to help has been a dog. A dog named Max.

Max is an 18 month old miniature golden labradoodle. His medium size, old man beard, and scruffy golden fur make him a one of a kind masterpiece. Around 12 weeks of age, he made his way into our life, and it didn't take long for us to realize Max would be more than a companion for Samuel. In those wise brown eyes was an innate capacity for comfort, support, strength, and stability. And our little boy needed him desperately.

We were directed to a local organization called Canines For Change and began obedience classes immediately. The bond between Samuel and Max was unmistakable. Both of them flourished as they learned to work together as a team. After a year of classes, we began exploring the possibility of certifying Max as Samuel's service dog. One of Samuel's diagnoses qualified him for a service dog, and we started exploring what this would mean for his future.

As we started identifying specific tasks that Max could learn to help with things such as redirection, sensory input, and calming, we discovered that Max could truly be the key to opening the world up to Samuel. A world that is overwhelming and often too much for him to enter confidently. Having Max at his side could mean independence. Integration. Progress. Life.

We have reached the point of Max's certification, and are seeking help with the cost. We've done some fundraising so far but still have a remaining $2,500 to raise. Would you consider partnering with us and help give Samuel this opportunity to have Max at his side as his certified service dog?