This project will dramatically reduce the stress of this young man's family as they deal with the issues of not only epilepsy, but autism as well. 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 Sammy's family. Due to the differing needs of each case, every service dog receives specialized training.
Sammy is often hospitalized with uncontrolled seizures. His family spends most of their meal times on edge, wondering if he will choke again. He walks more like a toddler than an 8-year old and his autism has complicates most regular situations. Sammy's family lives in a constant state of exhausting worry and stress. Sammy's seizure-response service dog, Sybil, will be trained to respond to seizures, keep him from wandering away and will be calming, preventing meltdowns.
A seizure-response dog will bring calm and reassurance to this already stressed family. Post seizure can be agitating for Sammy, and Sybil would help keep him calm and relatively still.
This particular project will provide seizure-response dogs for up to 12 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.
