Holly's MS Support - Mission Working Dogs Training and More

Holly's Struggle with MS

My name is Alyson Mandel. I am organizing this fundraiser on behalf of my dear friend Holly Knotowicz. Holly was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2023. If you know Holly, you know she has never let previous health issues and physical injury slow her down or define her. However, her MS diagnosis has brought new and overwhelming obstacles. Her MS has caused extreme fatigue and excruciating nerve pain throughout her body, and the infusions she receives to slow its progression have significantly compromised her immune system. These conditions have made it difficult for Holly to work as much as she needs to manage mounting medical costs. Holly's work as a speech pathologist and swallowing specialist is her passion and her inability to work with her clients has also been a significant setback for her.

Holly receives exceptional care from her team at Mass General, but regular trips to Boston are exhausting and expensive. Her incredible parents have been her rock, providing consistent support. Still, everyday tasks—like grocery shopping, cooking, and cleaning—have become increasingly difficult. Holly's greatest wish is to live independently for as long as possible, and now she has an incredible opportunity to help make that happen.

A Life-Changing Opportunity with Dutch

Holly and her beloved puppy, Dutch, have been accepted into the Mission Working Dogs training program in Portland, Maine. This inspiring organization, a woman-owned organization led by U.S. military veterans, trains service dogs to assist individuals with physical challenges. Holly and Dutch underwent a rigorous application process, including temperament tests, medical reviews, and interviews, to be accepted into the program.

The training program involves a minimum of 250 hours, during which Dutch will be trained to assist Holly with essential tasks, such as carrying laundry, opening doors, turning on lights, and retrieving dropped items. This support will be transformative for Holly, helping her maintain her independence and improve her quality of life.

To participate, Holly and Dutch must raise $5,000 to help cover the program’s costs. We’re calling on Holly’s community—friends, family, and everyone in her orbit—to rally behind her and Dutch as they embark on this life-changing journey.

Supporting Holly Beyond Training

In addition to the funds needed for Dutch’s training, Holly needs help with day-to-day expenses. Her compromised immune system has led to multiple hospitalizations, and she is temporarily unable to grocery shop, cook, or clean on her own. In addition, her home will need to be made more accessible for her (such as changing her current bathtub to a walk-in shower).

Any funds raised beyond the $5,000 will help Holly manage these essential tasks over the next 6–12 months as she works toward regaining her strength with the help of immunotherapy.

Holly has always been reluctant to ask for help, so I’m stepping in to remind her how loved and supported she is. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference.

Let’s show Holly that she is not alone. Together, we can help her and Dutch complete the Mission Working Dogs training program and support Holly in living the independent life she is fighting so hard to sustain.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity.