Hi Everyone!

My name is Daniel and I would like to tell you my story. I was born June 3, 2013 and was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis as a baby. Neurofibromatosis (NF) is a genetic neurological disorder which causes tumors to grow on my nervous system. In my immediate family my dad and younger sister also suffer from NF.

I’ve received treatment for NF throughout my life. Starting at age 5, when I received 70 weeks of chemotherapy due to having a tumor on my optical nerve. This nerve connects my eyes and my brain, and the doctor advised us that the purpose of the chemo was to stop it from growing any further. Against all odds and to the doctor’s surprise, the tumor slightly shrank, but I still require MRI’s every six months to ensure the tumor doesn’t grow again.

In July 2020 I was diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety disorder and autism. Due to my NF disorder, I have less muscle tone in my legs than others, which can cause mobility issues. My parents and doctors have agreed that it would be beneficial for me to get a service dog. She’s due be born in May / June of 2022 she will be a golden retriever and I am excited about that! She will go right to training after she is born and remain in the program for 18 months. During this time, I will go and visit her and get to know her. I will be joining her training for six weeks when she’s completed the first part of the program. When all her training is finally done, she will be able to come home. Once she is trained, she will be able to recognize any signs of a meltdown or an anxiety attack. She will learn how to do deep pressure therapy and help me with mobility.

Thank you for reading my story. Please pray for me as I start this exciting journey. Thank you