It will dramatically reduce the stress on this young girl's family. Seizure response dogs are a special type of service dog, specifically trained to help someone who has epilepsy or a seizure disorder. The Chelsea Hutchison Foundation is currently fundraising to be able to provide a grant to help with the cost of Helen's seizure-response dog. Due to the differing needs between each case, every potential seizure dog receives specialized training
Helen has 3-15 seizures each day which last 30 seconds to 60 minutes. Many of her seizures are at night and in the car. Goldie will comfort and stabilize Helen at night in bed so parents can sleep more nights in their own room. Goldie will also allow Helen to play outside "alone" with another set of eyes on her at all times. Goldie will be her friend, and a source of pride and happiness for her.
Goldie will take care of Helen at night and alert her family when seizures occur. It is estimated that over 50,000 Americans die each year from seizures and seizure-related causes. Many occur at night, unattended and unwitnessed. Imagine the relief it will bring to Helen's family to have Goldie as a line of defense in battling seizures.
This particular project will provide seizure-response dogs for people living with epilepsy, greatly increasing their chances of surviving life-threatening episodes that may arise. This project will also raise awareness about SUDEP to encourage further support of individuals living with epilepsy, their families, and their communities.
