Support Tammy's Journey to Independence with a Service Dog

Hi,

I was a Host Home Provider for this handicapped and very slightly developmentally delayed precious lady for 15 months. We became so very close, and I believe she has taught me more than I taught her. I am sharing with you what Tammy has asked me to share. First, know that this fundraiser is for Tammy to be able to obtain a service dog. The service dog is free through the program, but you must have funds for the life of the dog for pet food and veterinarian bills.

Tammy is in services on a DD Waiver through the state of Colorado and lives in a Host Home. She has lived in multiple host homes, some good experiences, some not so good. I would still have her if I was not moving back East to be near family. Leaving her is the absolute hardest part. My promise to her is that I would do everything I possibly could to assist her in obtaining a service dog. We got her application in, and she has her first interview on May 22nd, 2025. The Arc has been so gracious to work along with us, finding service dog agencies that would be willing to work with Tammy.

She was born with Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy and not expected to live as an infant. She survived those odds. I love to hear her Daddy tell how he prayed and prayed. Her life has been challenging. She has been taken from her parents twice, the last time at age 19 for multiple reasons. Her mother passed right after she came to my home, and her Daddy is currently in an assisted living home. He is 83 with early dementia. She has always been Daddy's little girl. She was expected not to survive once again as a teenager, and her family was taken to Disney by the Make a Wish Foundation. They enjoyed the beach and Disney. She survived those odds once again. Tammy celebrated her 40th birthday in January of 2025. She is legally blind, has a left cochlear implant, thus only hearing out of her left ear, and has deformities in both hands and feet. She cannot stand or walk. Her powerchair is her comfort/safety zone. She uses a manual chair when she has to. Both are custom chairs due to her spine. In spite of all of this, Tammy is very much a trooper, with the sweetest, most loving, appreciative soul that you will ever meet. Her sense of humor is amazing. Her positivity is out of this world. On the worst days, she will always find something to be thankful for. She has the kindest heart and is so very thoughtful. She grew up with very little and lives on a very limited income, but that does not steal her joy. She loves Jesus, loves Michael Jackson music, and Princess Jasmine is her favorite Disney Princess. She has a heart for others suffering with disabilities as well.

Her primary care physician, counselor, physical therapist, and other providers just really enjoy working with Tammy. She is a true blessing to others.

Tammy's funds will go into my checking account at Wells Fargo Bank. I will be purchasing Tammy's pet food, pet insurance, and paying veterinarian bills. If you have any questions whatsoever, you may reach out to me, and I can put you in touch with someone with her agency or her case manager that can verify the validity of this cause.

If you are able to assist financially in helping Tammy obtain a service dog, it will be greatly appreciated. If you are unable to, please know all prayers are greatly appreciated as well.

Warm Regards,

Kenya

[email redacted]