Dear Friends, Family, and Community,

I am reaching out to ask for your help in improving the safety and independence of my son, Charlie.

Charlie was born with a mitochondrial disease and seizure disorder. Mitochondrial disease affects his body at the cellular level, limiting his strength and stamina. His seizures can occur without warning, creating ongoing risks of falls, injury, and medical emergencies. The unpredictability of his condition makes every day life challenging and often frightening.

After careful research, I have learned that a professionally trained seizure response dog could significantly improve Charlie’s safety and quality of life. These service dogs are trained to respond during and immediately after a seizure, staying with him, providing stability and comfort, and alerting caregivers when needed. Beyond the medical support, they offer confidence, companionship, and emotional stability that can be life-changing. For those of you who know Charlie, you already know that he is an amazing young man. For those of you who don’t personally know him, despite all his struggles, he always has a smile on his face and a joke to tell. This dog will be his best friend, and Charlie will love him with all his heart.

The cost of acquiring and training a seizure response dog is $25,000. This includes specialized training tailored to Charlie’s medical needs, and the support required to ensure a successful partnership. I am starting this GoFundMe to help make this life-changing support possible.

The cost is $25,000, but the value of his safety and independence is priceless- and together, we can make this life-changing support a reality.

With gratitude,

Tracy (Charlie’s mom)