1 in 54 people are diagnosed with autism, according to the CDC (2020). Epilepsy is a disorder that affects over 3 million people nationwide. 20% of autistic people, mostly boys, have both autism and epilepsy.

There is no cure for autism, but many people can live with epilepsy by taking medication. Others have surgery to help stop or reduce their seizures. Some suffer alone with it. For others it can be fatal.

My son, Aiden is a happy 10 year old little boy who lives with both Autism and Epilepsy. He has been on many seizure medications. Every time his medication is increased or changed, we renew hope that we had finally (maybe) found the answer, but so far nothing has worked.

Aiden was born with a brain injury called PVL Periventricular Leukomalacia. PVL occurs because brain tissue has been injured or has died due to a lack of blood flow to the brain before, during, or after birth. Approximately 60-100% of infants diagnosed with PVL are diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, the most common motor disability in children.

Thankfully, Aiden's motor skills are excellent but his cognitive abilities have greatly been impacted. Aiden is diagnosed with Moderate Intellectual Disability. He requires one on one direction in every aspect of his life even with the simplest tasks such as putting a shirt or shoes on. Aiden also has no sense of safety. Aiden's days are often filled with behavioral disturbances that he cannot control.

Aiden's recently had a big change in behaviors and the characteristics of his seizure patterns are greatly changing. I have found him unresponsive 3 times in the middle of the night recently. I would not have known something was wrong if I didn't hear him coughing from vomiting or heard the "thump" from him falling out of bed. As a mom, you feel helpless. Trying to make sure he doesn’t hurt himself, turning him on his side, praying that you are not witnessing his last moments. That first breath when the seizure finally stops feels like a miracle. How can anyone’s body withstand so much? Then you wait to see if he wakes up the same little boy you know and love because the possible damage that can occur during each seizure is unknown. Aiden is at high risk for a seizure related accident.

This is why we need your help!!

Aiden's Neurologist finds it would be very beneficial for Aiden to have a service dog. Because Aiden is multiple diagnosed he will need a multipurpose service dog. His dog will need specific training for detecting seizures before they start, lowering Aiden to the ground safely during seizures if needed, alerting nearby caregivers for help, providing emotional support, anxiety relief, comfort, and most of all safety. A service/therapy dog would be life changing for Aiden but most importantly life saving.

The average cost of a service dog is $20,000-$35,000.

We have been paired with 4Paws4Ability in Xenia, Ohio to start the process of getting Aiden his own service dog. This is the most affordable place we have found but the cost is still $17,000. This includes breeding, raising, training, and all vet care.

Fundraising is the sole responsibility of the client before a dog can be placed. We are looking to apply for grants to hopefully cover some of the cost. But this is a very long process with a substantial wait time.

Despite all Aiden's hardships, he is the most loving, funny, smart, and caring little guy!! ❤

I am not one to beg or ask for help, but here I am in all vulnerability. I am asking if you can help with the smallest amount or share his go fund me it would mean the world to our family and make a huge impact on Aiden's life and we will forever be greatful!! Thank you and God Bless.

Aiden's Family ❤