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Hi!

My name is Madi and I am 18 years old.

Six years ago, I was diagnosed with Epilepsy, Autism, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and ADHD. After many years of continuing to struggle daily, I was also diagnosed with PTSD. I believe, that many girls with autism do not get diagnosed until they are in their teens which means we miss those important years when we are younger to get the proper support we very much need to help us in social situations.

Watching my younger brother go through his various illnesses over the past 14 years has been very hard on me, and due to the trauma of watching him be very close to dying a few times, it has caused me to develop PTSD. Every day is a challenge for me. I have a very difficult time in social situations, I get overwhelmed very easily, and often I need help to calm myself down.

Back in August 2021, I received my K4Paws Service Dog Tyson. Tyson has been my other half. He has attended school with me from the day I received him and has helped me to get through some very difficult situations ever since. Having Tyson by my side has enabled me to develop the confidence I need to face every day social situations, and he has been by my side to help me remain calm when I am feeling overwhelmed. He is my constant companion. Often, if you are diagnosed as having special needs, it can be very hard to make friends and keep them or be included by others. Tyson assists me in recognizing my symptoms of anxiety or panic and provides me with deep pressure by laying across me or leaning in on me, so I remain grounded. He knows me so incredibly well and is always right there to help me through any situation. Without him, I would truly be lost!

Kingston 4 Paws is a charitable organization and receives no government funding. The cost to raise and train a service dog is approximately $20,000 to $25,000. When possible, families do their best to fundraise to try and pay it forward to help other families. That is what I am trying to do.

I am so thankful to have received the gift of Tyson from K4Paws. If you can donate, I would be very grateful. No amount is too small.

Thank you for taking the time to support me and K4Paws Tyson and we take the next steps together on our journey!

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