Help Cassie get a service dog!

My name is Jen Whittington and it is my honor to share Cassie's story and give you an opportunity to encourage and bless her on her journey. I have known her literally my entire life and have watched her grow in character and faith. She is someone who lives out her convictions, generously using her resources and time to bless others. She has faced adversity with the strength and fight that comes only from a hope deeply rooted in her Savior. 

In May of 2008, Cassie was diagnosed with rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease that primarily affects joints. Initially she was able to manage her RA with regular infusions of a biologic treatment. Unfortunately she was unable to continue this treatment after being diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer with BRCA 1 gene mutation in September of 2016. Her focus turned from treating the RA to prepare for having surgery and completing aggressive chemotherapy. 

Thankfully, cancer treatment was completed in April 2017! However, due to an increased risk of the cancer returning, biologic treatment could no longer be used to manage the progression of her RA. 

Since stopping the biologic treatment and undergoing her cancer treatment, scans have shown that her RA has significantly progressed. This has led to difficulty with balance, walking, navigating steps and uneven surfaces, as well as other day-to-day activities. She has already made multiple modification to her home in order to accommodate her situation. 

In July 2018, Cassie was deemed an ideal candidate for a stability service dog through SIT Service Dogs out of Ava, IL! Her dog will be specifically trained to provide stability in walking, picking items off the floor, helping to get up after a a fall, rising from the seated position, among other things. 
 
She will received the dog once it has successfully finished all training. The total cost of the dog is $15,000, which covers the cost of care and training expenses from birth until it is transferred to her. Your donation will help cover these costs and support her in her day-to-day life. Please prayerfully consider how you can support Cassie through your prayers and financial donation.