Sixteen years ago, my life changed in an instant.

In 2010, as a sophomore in high school, I was living the life of a typical teenager. I played varsity softball, competed in gymnastics, excelled in honors classes, and dreamed about what the future would hold. Then, on February 17, I woke up in excruciating pain and unable to use my right hand. What followed was years of hospitalizations, rehabilitation, countless appointments, and an endless search for answers.

After many years doctors now believe I have Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP) a progressive neurological disorder and secondary Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

Today, I am a full-time wheelchair user living with severe spasticity in my lower extremities and chronic pain. Every day requires planning, adapting, and finding new ways to accomplish even the simplest tasks.

Despite these challenges, I have built a life I am incredibly grateful for. I am blessed with an amazing husband, two wonderful sons, a loving family, a career that allows me to help others, and a faith that continues to sustain me. I have learned that happiness is found in the little things—worshipping at church, getting lost in a good book, and sitting outside watching my children laugh and play.

One of the greatest blessings over the last ten years has had four paws.

My sweet “Golden boy” has faithfully been by my side through some of the hardest and happiest seasons of my life. He has helped me maintain my independence, increased my safety, and given me the confidence to navigate everyday life. He has picked up dropped items, assisted with daily tasks, provided stability during difficult moments, and been a constant source of support and companionship.

Now, after a decade of faithful service, he is ready for a well-earned retirement. Instead of caring for me every day, it is finally his turn to be spoiled, loved, and enjoy his golden years. He has more than earned that privilege and I can’t wait to watch him enjoy taking naps on our family couch, watching tv, and get all the treats.

As bittersweet as his retirement is, it also means beginning the search for my next service dog.

I am incredibly grateful to have been accepted into Eyes Ears Nose & Paws (EENP) to receive another service dog in October. This opportunity is life-changing, but there are still significant expenses involved in obtaining, training with, and bringing home my new partner.

A service dog cannot cure my condition, but they give me something just as valuable: greater independence, increased safety, and the ability to continue living life as fully as possible. They help reduce my dependence on others, allowing me to be a more active wife, mother, professional, and member of my community.

If you choose to support this journey, you are not simply helping me obtain a service dog—you are investing in my independence, my safety, and my ability to continue doing the things I love with the people I love most.

Whether you are able to donate, share this page, or simply keep our family in your prayers, I am deeply grateful. Thank you for believing in this journey and for helping make my next chapter possible.