Hope for Healing

Hi, My name is Danielle. I have been married to my husband, Weston for twelve years. We have six children between the ages of 3 and 16. In March of 2018, I was in our local Walmart when I ran into the man who sexually abused me from my childhood. My life started to spiral from that time, I experienced flashbacks, nightmares/terrors, anxiety, depression, hyper vigilance, and panic attacks. Everything in my life felt out of control and I began controlling what I could, food. I was diagnosed with Complex PTSD from trauma and Anorexia. In July 2018 I went to treatment, where I spent twelve weeks. Returning home I had hoped all of that year would be behind me. I began struggling again, this time more ashamed than ever, I never said anything, just kept stuffing everything down. I struggled with hopelessness which led to me struggling with suicidal thoughts and attempts.

Here I am again, November 2020 in treatment, away from my family.

My treatment team believes that I would benefit greatly from a service dog for my Complex PTSD. The dog would serve as a companion, and would be working to perform certain tasks for me. Such as, waking me up from nightmares, situating themselves on me/against me during anxiety attacks or panic attacks, and would help ground me from dissociation.

I was recently let go from my job due to being in treatment and the cost of a dog, the specialized training, along with continued training, certification and the special vests is more than my family can afford.

A friend suggested maybe I try some fundraising instead of my plan to take out a loan. I don’t like asking for help....ever, but this is something that I need so I can live my life with my family. I know this is a hard time for everyone and I appreciate anything anyone can do, especially the prayers!!