The Chelsea Hutchison Foundation is currently fundraising to be able to provide a grant to Zachary. Seizure response dogs (SRD) are a special type of service dog, specifically trained to help someone who has epilepsy or a seizure disorder. Due to the differing needs between each case, every potential seizure dog receives specialized training. Having an SRD will mean the world to Zachary and his family.
Zachary gets very scared after having a seizure and his SRD will be his best friend and provide medication, comfort and safety. His SRD will keep him from wondering and be with him at all times. Zachary's mother lives in a constant state of exhausting worry and stress. His SRD is being trained to break falls, fetch blankets and pillows and provide comfort after or during a seizure.
This project will allow a little boy to be a little boy. Kai will allow Zachary the opportunity to do things that other boys his age can do and will help keep him safe by being his constant companion. While in training, Kai is demonstrating some alerting abilities and in time, will hopefully have the ability to alert Zachary's mother ahead of a seizure so they can brace for what is to come.
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.