We are raising funds to support our son Jay, a bright and resilient 13-year-old boy living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), an intellectual disability, and Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Each day, he navigates a world that can feel loud, unpredictable, and demanding—yet he continues to show strength, courage, and perseverance in ways that inspire everyone who knows him.

Jay is someone who's known for his huge smile and sunshiney energy. Anyone who has the privilege of spending any time with him will share how much he loves playing pretend, building lego, playing with his hotwheels monster trucks and cars, or dinos. He loves almost any sport, swimming, the race track, camping in the summer, and tobogganing in the winter. Jay says his special talents are basketball and painting . . . we totally agree! It'd be so fantastic to receive the support we need so that we can continue doing all of these things for him.

Although Jay shows up with so much positivity, many everyday experiences that others move through with ease—managing emotions, moving safely and confidently, or engaging socially—can be incredibly challenging for him. These challenges often limit his independence and make it harder for him to fully participate in his community and the activities he wants so badly to enjoy.

A specially trained service dog has the potential to be truly life-changing for Jay.

This service dog would support him by:

• Helping with emotional regulation during moments of stress or sensory overload

• Encouraging greater independence and confidence in daily routines

• Supporting mobility and providing grounding during transitions

• Making social and community activities feel safer and more accessible

• Offering constant, calming companionship and reassurance

In February of 2018, Jay was diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and an Intellectual Disability. He may have just turned 13 but intellectually, socially and emotionally he's around 7 years old. Having navigated the public school system with my 21 year old who is also neurodivergent and then schools being closed because of covid, we chose to keep him out of the school system permanently, and homeschool to ensure he receives the support and nurturing he needs.

In November 2022, Jay was diagnosed with Diabetic Ketoacidosis and we almost lost him. He was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and we were thrown into the world of counting carbs, needles every time he eats, blood sugar highs and lows, all while holding space for everything that comes with his Autism diagnosis.

February 2024 is when Jay had the first of two surgeries to remove the cataracts that were found about a year after his diabetes diagnosis.

So much for anyone to navigate in such a short time, but to do it with Autism is so much more challenging.

He's the bravest person I know!

For Jay, a service dog would be more than just assistance—it would be a trusted partner, a steady presence, and a bridge to a more independent and connected life. Someone who can help him feel safer in his body, calmer in his mind, and more confident as he navigates the world around him.

Service dogs require extensive, specialized training and ongoing support, which comes at a significant cost. All funds raised will go directly toward obtaining, and training a service dog tailored to Jay's unique needs. The cost will be between $40 and $50 thousand, so to achieve our goal would be such a great start!

Any donation—no matter the size—brings us one step closer to giving Jay the support he deserves. If you’re unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser is a powerful way to help.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for taking the time to read, care, and support Jay on this journey.

Love to you all.