Fundraiser for Anthony and his seizure support dog

We are creating this GoFundMe dedicated to our grandson, Anthony, and his new four-legged best friend, Mia.

Anthony is a loving, energetic, creative, and beautiful four-year-old boy. At just nine months old, he was diagnosed with a life-long, rare form of epilepsy called Dravet Syndrome, which devastatingly, can be fatal. Due to his disability, Anthony lives a unique life that requires constant care, medical devices, and accommodations that are most often not covered by the government and present financial challenges for his outstanding and loving parents, Charlene and David.

Anthony will highly benefit from a specialized service dog trained to detect and respond to his seizures. Anthony’s puppy, Mia, was accepted to be trained as a service dog by Quentin de Jager with “Jager K9 Dog Training” in the coming months. Quentin is skilled in training dogs to detect and respond to rare conditions such as Anthony’s.

When Anthony opens his eyes every morning, he asks to hug and play with Mia. When he does not know we are watching, we find him quietly chatting with Mia, excitedly telling her about all the adventures they will go on. Knowing she can be his closest friend and play a vital lifesaving role in his life is a blessing. When Anthony is seizing, Mia will assist by retrieving rescue medication, alerting his parents/teachers/caregivers to begin medical intervention, and many other lifesaving functions. Children with Anthony’s rare condition are at an increased risk of night seizures and, dreadfully, passing away in their sleep. Mia gives us hope that Anthony will have the essential care he needs to keep him safe.

The cost of this specialized type of training is beyond the financial ability of Anthony’s parents and family. We are asking for the support and generosity of donors to ensure Anthony has the much-needed opportunity to experience the world and have the best care possible.

During this festive season, we thank you for your love and support by contributing to Anthony and Mia’s Fund. Although there are many complexities in Anthony’s life, he continues to bring joy and laughter to every person he meets. As Anthony’s Papa and Nonna, we would appreciate your contribution. Anthony and Mia truly represent the promise of hope and a bright future. Anthony says daily, “I love Mia, and I am going to take care of her.” We smile and tell him, “Mia loves you and will take good care of you too.”