I am a disabled veteran living with PTSD and the symptoms of a traumatic brain injury. My journey to getting a service dog began at the SHARE Military Initiative, part of the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, GA. This program is renowned for helping veterans with head and spinal cord injuries, and being there, I saw firsthand how service dogs have transformed the lives of others in my situation. Their quality of life improved tenfold, and I knew that a service dog could make a real difference for me and my family.

My injuries and diagnosis have deeply impacted my family's life. Large public places, busy environments, and crowds leave me overwhelmed, hyper vigilant, and often upset. This has meant my children and I rarely get to enjoy outings or activities together. PTSD affects my daily life, and my TBI brings long spells of dizziness, loss of balance, visual fatigue, and nausea. While a service dog can't help with every symptom, it has already become a source of comfort and grounding, helping me take control of my environment, my feelings, and my symptoms.

Healing4Heroes is an incredible organization that provides service dogs and training to veterans at no cost. However, for the week-long handler training in Peachtree City, GA, I need help covering the hotel stay. Since I live two hours away, room and board are necessary for me to complete the process and bring my service dog home. Any and all help is greatly appreciated. It's hard for me to ask for help, especially publicly, but the impact this support would have on myself and my family would be life changing.