<div>Six years ago, I brought home my best friend, Stitch. I was hoping that having a service dog would help improve my life and help me manage my Diabetes better. At the time, I had no idea just how much this dog would change everything for me.
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<div>Before I brought Stitch home, I was not able to live alone. I would frequently have blood sugar issues and need assistance. Typically, my family had to call the ambulance 2-3 times per month to help me. Sometimes, I required transport to the hospital. Often, the ambulance crew would stay at our house for long periods of time to help stabilize me so I wouldn't have to be transported. 
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<div>I remember going to the grocery store one day. I went inside alone. My blood sugar levels dropped significantly while I was shopping and I became disoriented and confused.  When my mom came looking for me, she found me surrounded by staff and onlookers trying to help me and I wasn't making much sense. Living independently and confidently was a thing of the past.
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<div>Once I got Stitch, things turned around as we found our way on this journey. I'm happy to report that I have only had the ambulance called once in the 5 plus years since I've had him.
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<div><strong>Stitch has had a few medical issues crop up over time. In the last year, he has had seizures and now requires medication to manage them. Most service dogs retire between the age of 8-10. With his medical history, I want to make sure that when he is ready to retire, he can.</strong>
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<div><strong>Since part of my needs are mobility assistance, that means I need to start sooner rather than later to train Stitch's replacement. While a lot of the training can be done early, mobility training requires the dog to be at least 2 years old physically, before their body can withstand the rigors of mobility work without it harming them physically. So, I am starting now.</strong>
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<div><strong>I recently found out that there will be a puppy who will be an ideal candidate for what I need in a few months and I need to have the funds ready to pay at pick up.</strong> Having a service dog has given me my life and independence back. It allows me to have the confidence to live alone and thrive!
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<div>I have always strived to pay my own way, but this time it isn't possible. Any help will be gratefully received. Even if you aren't able to donate, please share on social media so I can raise the funds to bring the new sidekick home!
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ANNETTE ASHBACH

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Cheryl Polson

Fund a New Chapter of Independence

Fund a New Chapter of Independence

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