Josee urgently needs a mobility and service dog

Hi everyone,

Kelley started this page to help me raise funds towards a service dog. I wanted to take the time to speak a little about me.

I spent most of my life being quite healthy. I was active, ate well, and sought medical care when appropriate.

Yet, here I am at 51, struggling to prepare food and care for myself.

3 years ago, I was diagnosed with a genetic connective tissue disorder (EDS/HSD). One that I have also passed on.

My diagnosis came 40 years too late. Despite 9 months in intensive physical rehab, 18 months of regular rehab and several consultations with specialists, my hands continue to deteriorate. Which means that every part of my day is a challenge.

This is not my only challenge. Literally every joint in my body is loose. Day after day, friction in my joints cause a great deal of inflammation. Then there are the subluxations (partially dislocations). These are painful and occur daily (hands, shoulders, ribs, hips, knees, fibula, ankles). I also struggle to maintain my blood pressure and heart rate. These are often related to reactions to certain foods.

My story is one that is inconceivable. I look entirely healthy. But in reality, I am constantly fighting to survive.

I am fighting like hell to "hold on", but in all transparency, I am not doing such a good job. I am soul tired.

Remi will be manage so many of my symptoms. She will allow me more freedom to be in public. And help with chores when I am home.

July 31st is my birthday! And all I want...is Remi.

I continue to feel humbled by this process. And so very touched by the generosity of others.

With love,

Josée

Examples of tasks Remi will do for Josée

● Drag the laundry basket or grocery bags

● Picking up/retrieve objects such as water bottle, keys or phone

● Navigate safely through crowds

● Pushing buttons to open doors

● Provide balance and better proprioception by leaning against her

● Provide safety during a medical crisis and applying deep acupressure when needed

Summit Service Dogs

Why Summit? They are specialized in training dogs for those diagnosed with Autism. They understand how to train a dog for deep pressure therapy (which is helpful with symptoms such as high heart rate, low blood pressure or dizziness). They also have Remi, who fits her needs and is available in the coming months.

NB: There are no government grants or programs available in Quebec to help offset the cost. .

Other Ways to Help

1) Share this GFM!

2) Take a few minutes to read about connective tissue disorders and their associated comorbidities. https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/

3) Learn more about: www.summitservicedogs.com

Donation Options

● GoFundMe - which includes cost for Remi and associated costs such as plane tickets.

● Donate directly to https://summitservicedogs.com/

A message from Summit

Summit Service Dogs is an accredited organization in the Province of Alberta. We provide highly trained dogs for those that will benefit from a service dog to meet their unique needs. We’re excited to provide a service dog for Josee St-Onge! More specifically, we’re excited to provide a mobility service dog to assist & support Josee with her mobility ; in her day-to-day activities. A service dog for Josee will enhance her quality of life; maintain her independence by offering practical support with everyday tasks. Some of the tasks that Josee’s service dog will be trained for is to open; close doors, retrieve items, dressing; undressing, to navigate crowds, ride the subway with Josee, pushing buttons, etc. A service dog for Josee will also provide companionship, emotional support; comfort to Josee. It will take a special dog to support Josee with her needs, but we believe we have the perfect prospect currently in advanced training. We would like to introduce you to Remi! Remi is a female chocolate lab. She is keen, eager to work, loving; has already learned many of the tasks Josee will require of a service dog. Remi will provide Josee with constant companionship; reduce the impacts that her disability might otherwise have on her. Remi will be fully certified; able to accompany Josee in public. This will assist Josee in maintaining independence; allow her to continue to work; live as functional of a life as possible. The projected date for Josee to

receive Remi is Summer 2025. REMI & All of us at Summit Service Dogs are honoured to work alongside Josee; provide her with a

service dog to improve her day-to-day activities & quality of life. A Go Fund Me page has been started to support this endeavor, so please help Josee reach her fundraising goal for Remi! If anyone would like more information or has questions we encourage you to visit our website at www.summitservicedogs.com

Sincerely,

Nathalie Gillespie & Stacey Wagner

Summit Service Dogs