Addi's Shadow (epileptic service dog)
Addi is 6 years old, and is diagnosed with epilepsy caused by a genetic mutation. Her seizures started in November of 2016 and have been fairly controlled by medications until recently. Her most recent neurologist appointment showed significant seizure charges during an overnight EEG, and Addi has had several convulsive seizures and up to 30 focal seizures a day. Many of her recent seizures are occurring during her sleep (while others are asleep as well) which is raising concern for her safety.
On September 18, 2019 after a LONG night and day of almost continuous seizure activity, Addi's neurologist suggested that Addi is a "perfect candidate" for an epileptic service dog, and that she was putting an eligibility form in the mail. This was something that Addi's parents had always considered, but never really knew where to start. Hearing those word of support from Addi's doctor gave a sense of hope and determination to George and Beth.
Beth spent the next 24 hours researching dogs, trainers, etc. She quickly learned that this was going to take a lot of God and a lot of family and friends.
The Lewises are officially waiting on their interview with EENP (eyes, ears, nose, paws) to begin their process of being matched and trained with Addi’s dog. But the financial obligations are HUGE! The cost of the fully trained alert dog is $20,000 and it has to be paid in full 1 month prior to the training. As of now, EENP has trainings in February, June, and October of 2020. Hopefully their interview will be very soon, and they will be ready for the June training. In addition to the $20,000 for the dog, the Lewises will have additional expenses that will total approximately $2,000 for the 2 week training, lodging, food, etc. Beth and George will be required to attend the training with Addi meaning that they will both be out of work for 2 weeks. I will attach the flyer from EENP that provides all of the information about the process including the cost breakdown.
Addi's parents have never wanted her epilepsy to be seen as a disability or to limit her quality of life. This service dog can allow Addi to live a full life- a life where she can play sports, go swimming, have sleepovers with friends, etc. with no fear. This dog can be her shadow and keep her safe.
We will be creating a facebook page as well to keep everyone updated on Addi's journey. Thank you so much for supporting Addi and the Lewis family.
On September 18, 2019 after a LONG night and day of almost continuous seizure activity, Addi's neurologist suggested that Addi is a "perfect candidate" for an epileptic service dog, and that she was putting an eligibility form in the mail. This was something that Addi's parents had always considered, but never really knew where to start. Hearing those word of support from Addi's doctor gave a sense of hope and determination to George and Beth.
Beth spent the next 24 hours researching dogs, trainers, etc. She quickly learned that this was going to take a lot of God and a lot of family and friends.
The Lewises are officially waiting on their interview with EENP (eyes, ears, nose, paws) to begin their process of being matched and trained with Addi’s dog. But the financial obligations are HUGE! The cost of the fully trained alert dog is $20,000 and it has to be paid in full 1 month prior to the training. As of now, EENP has trainings in February, June, and October of 2020. Hopefully their interview will be very soon, and they will be ready for the June training. In addition to the $20,000 for the dog, the Lewises will have additional expenses that will total approximately $2,000 for the 2 week training, lodging, food, etc. Beth and George will be required to attend the training with Addi meaning that they will both be out of work for 2 weeks. I will attach the flyer from EENP that provides all of the information about the process including the cost breakdown.
Addi's parents have never wanted her epilepsy to be seen as a disability or to limit her quality of life. This service dog can allow Addi to live a full life- a life where she can play sports, go swimming, have sleepovers with friends, etc. with no fear. This dog can be her shadow and keep her safe.
We will be creating a facebook page as well to keep everyone updated on Addi's journey. Thank you so much for supporting Addi and the Lewis family.