Keep Caitlin Safe

 

 

Hello everyone! My name is Caitlin, and I am a sophomore nursing student in Sioux Falls, SD. The reason I have set up this page is, I have a severe latex allergy that puts my life in danger every day. Because of this, I am getting a service dog who is pictured on this page. I have had serious complications because of this allergy and recently it has gotten even more deadly. Not only does the latex allergy get worse every time I am exposed, but I have also had a near death experience in 2021 with many blood clots in both lungs that lead to bilateral pulmonary infarction (death of lung tissue) and secondary pneumonia the week after discharge. Because of my complicated medical history and the pulmonary embolisms, it is extremely important that I do not have another "large" exposure. Therefore, I am getting a service dog named Tank! I will get him the beginning of summer break, but the goal of $1,500 is just a small fraction of what he will cost. Any amount that you could generously donate, would help.

 

Here is an article about the same organization I am getting Tank from: https://www.today.com/health/latex-detection-dogs-help-people-allergy-return-normal-life-t174562

 

Most of my exposures are from balloons. Whether it be a high school, a wedding, Walmart, or science experiment, there are often balloons involved because they are cheap and festive. While other people see balloons as a convenient decoration, I see my life flash before my eyes. I have had people intentionally pop balloons near me because they think I am faking at sporting events, other students "delivered" balloons to me, and people knowing but just not caring. My allergy is so dangerous because often times, I cannot tell there was a balloon unless I see it or have an anaphylactic reaction.

 

I am studying nursing and hope to work with the pediatric population. I am a straight A student, I am in the band and choir at school, I've made it on the Dean's list, and have a job. I am a hardworking and caring individual, but I need help to pay for Tank. Please consider keeping me safe, so I can save others in my nursing career.