Hi, I am Samantha. I am a sophomore in college planning to major in marketing and french. I have been struggling with Dysautonomia and Chronic Migraines for a few years now but just recently got diagnosed after getting a major increase in symptoms over the summer. The symptoms were manageable for years until they suddenly got worse due to a medical event.

What is Dysautonomia?

Dysautonomia is a type of chronic illness that affects the autonomic nervous system. It can cause many different symptoms and can affect everyone differently. I have also included a article explaining what Dysautonomia is in depth. what is dysautonomia

What are my symptoms?

My symptoms include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath (air hunger), dizziness, tremors, chronic migraines, extreme fatigue, Lightheadedness, clammy hands, blood pooling, increased anxiety, near syncope (almost passing out), I get unsteady when I walk, high heart-rate when standing, and low blood-pressure. These are just the symptoms I can think of right now as Dysautonomia can affect every system in your body.

Why do I want a service dog?

I am wanting to get a service dog to help alert before I have a episode where I faint or almost faint. I am also wanting the service dog to help alert me when a migraine is about to start as well as many other tasks that will help me navigate these chronic illnesses. Being in college is very hard and it is hard for me to feel comfortable doing daily things without worrying that I could pass out at any moment or if me cleaning my room will cause my symptoms to flare for a few days. I think that a service dog will not only help me manage my symptoms but it will help provide the support I need to do things independently.