Help Austin Get a Life-Saving Diabetic Alert Dog

Support Austin in Getting a Life-Saving Diabetic Alert Dog

In March 2021, Austin was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at just 12 years old. Since then, he has been insulin-dependent, navigating the daily challenges of managing his blood sugar levels. High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can be life-threatening, and their unpredictability adds a layer of stress to Austin's life, especially as a teenager.

Austin was able to get on the waiting list for a trained Diabetic Alert Dog from Diabetic Alert Dogs of America. These specially trained dogs can detect dangerous changes in blood sugar before they become critical, giving Austin the time he needs to address the issue and avoid severe health risks. This will not only give Austin more independence but will provide the family with peace of mind.

The Cost and Our Journey

The total cost for a Diabetic Alert Dog through Diabetic Alert Dogs of America is $19,000. Over the past three years, his family has worked tirelessly through fundraising efforts to raise the funds needed. They've organized several fundraisers, including hot cocoa jars, zucchini bread sales, a carnival, and a taco bar. So far, with the help of our amazing community, they've been able to raise about $10,000 They had to put $3,000 down to get on the waiting list.

While they’re currently on the waiting list for the dog, once the dog is trained, they will have to pay $6500 before they can get the dog. Once they get the dog, they will need to start making payments of about $527 per month until the remaining balance is paid off. They are halfway there but still need help to cover the remaining cost so Austin can receive this life-changing service dog.

How a Diabetic Alert Dog Will Help Austin

Diabetic Alert Dogs are trained to sense changes in blood sugar through scent. This means the dog will be able to detect dangerous highs and lows before they happen, preventing medical emergencies. The dog will accompany Austin everywhere, from school to extracurricular activities, ensuring he stays safe and alert during critical moments. Additionally, the dog will provide nighttime protection, alerting Austin and us if his blood sugar levels drop or raise dangerously while he’s asleep.

For Austin, this dog represents more than just physical security—it will offer emotional support and companionship during a time when many teens feel the weight of isolation due to their condition. The service dog will be a constant companion, helping Austin feel more confident and secure in his daily life.

How You Can Help

They are halfway to reaching their goal, but they need your support to raise the remaining $9,000. Any donation, big or small, will bring them closer to providing Austin with this invaluable resource. Once they reach their goal, Austin will have the safety, independence, and companionship that this diabetic alert dog will bring into his life. If they go over their goal, that extra money will be put into an account they've set up for Austin's dog to pay for the care of the dog because there will be a lot of cost associated with keeping the dog healthy.

Please consider donating to this GoFundMe to help Austin secure his diabetic alert dog and ensure a safer and brighter future for him.

Thank you for your kindness, support, and generosity!