This project will dramatically reduce the stress on this family. Imagine being a young mother of three, experiencing several different types of seizures daily. The Chelsea Hutchison Foundation is currently fundraising to be able to provide a grant to Nicole for Charlie. Charlie will be trained to meet the specific deeds of Nicole and will bring peace and independence to this young mother.
Seizures occur multiple times a day, every single day for Nicole. Her seizures have progressed to tonic clonic (grand mal) seizures. She is scared to be alone. She is afraid to sleep. Her husband, who service active duty, is afraid to go to work. She cares for (3) young children.
A seizure-response dog will bring peace to this family. Charlie will assist Nicole during seizures by alerting someone when a seizure is occurring, bringing medication and water. He will also offer stability and help arouse Nicole after a seizure occurs. Because of the varying types of seizures, he will also guide Nicole away from harmful situations like stairs, roadways or cars when she is having an absence seizure.
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.
