My name is Emily, I am 20 years old and I was recently diagnosed with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). MCAS is a rare and unpredictable condition that causes my body to have severe reactions like swelling, hives, and even life-threatening anaphylaxis, often without any clear trigger. Over the past year, I have been in and out of the hospital, struggling to understand what was happening to my body. Now that I have a diagnosis, I am learning just how much this disease affects every part of my life—from neurological symptoms and skin disorders to heart rhythm problems, blood pressure issues, difficulty standing/walking, circulatory issues, allergic reactions, adrenaline dumps, and panic attacks.

Every day, I face new challenges. My body can react to almost anything: smells in the air, certain foods, body products, and even some of the simplest things like a certain brand of water. These reactions can cause me to feel lightheaded, lose my balance, or even faint. I have lost my ability to drive and can no longer do basic things like go to the store or spend time in public places, because I am always at risk for another episode. Living with MCAS means constant vigilance and uncertainty, and it has made daily life incredibly difficult.

A service dog would be life-changing for me. With specialized training, a service dog could alert me to potential triggers, provide medical alerts, help during panic attacks, and assist if I faint or have a sudden drop in blood pressure. This support would give me a chance to regain some independence and safety, and to live a more normal life. Unfortunately, the cost and wait time for a trained service dog are significant, and I cannot do this alone. It would mean the world to me if I could get some help with being able to receive the funds for a service dog. Your support would make a real difference in my journey to reclaim my life and health.