Service Dog Needed for Sydney's FND Battle
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Hi, my name is Sydney Charter, and I’m reaching out to you with hope and gratitude as I work toward a life-changing goal: raising funds to get a service dog.
I’ve recently been diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), also known as Conversion Disorder, a condition that profoundly impacts my daily life. FND causes my brain to miscommunicate with my body, leading to episodes that mimic the symptoms of a stroke.
These episodes are unpredictable and can include:
- Loss of mobility, leaving me unable to walk or move certain parts of my body.
- Temporary paralysis
- Severe tremors and muscle weakness, making daily tasks impossible.
- Loss of balance and coordination,
- Slurred speech or difficulty communicating, adding to the fear and confusion during episodes.
- Non epileptic seizure
These symptoms have been so disruptive that I’ve ended up in the hospital, with doctors initially suspecting a stroke. Each episode is not only physically draining but also emotionally overwhelming, leaving me anxious about when the next one might happen.
After extensive research and discussions with healthcare professionals, I learned that a service dog could be a game-changer in managing my condition. A service dog trained specifically for FND could:
- Assist with mobility and balance, helping me stay safe and prevent injuries.
- Alert others during an episode, ensuring I get the help I need.
- Provide emotional grounding during and after episodes to reduce anxiety.
- Restore a sense of independence and confidence in my daily life.
Why I Need Your Help:
The cost of a service dog, including specialized training, equipment, and ongoing care, is significant. While I’ve explored grants and other funding options, I still need help to cover these expenses.
How You Can Help:
Your donation will go directly toward:
- Training a service dog to meet my specific needs.
- Covering equipment and supplies, like harnesses and vests.
- Paying for veterinary care and ongoing maintenance.
Even a small donation can make a big difference in helping me regain the independence I’ve lost to FND. If you’re unable to donate, sharing my story with your friends, family, or community would mean so much to me.
Thank You
I am deeply grateful for your kindness, generosity, and support. Living with FND has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life, but with your help, I believe I can take a step toward a safer, more stable future. This service dog won’t just be my companion—it will be my lifeline.
Thank you for being a part of this journey.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Sydney Charter
Organizer
Sydney Charter
Organizer
Fredericksburg, VA