Hi Everyone,

This a blog about our journey with our son Austin.  He was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome back in 2006 at the age of 7.  Asperger's Syndrome is a form of Autism.  Not knowing what Asperger's was we bought many books and researched online and were stunned to learn that in the beginning the resources for us were limited.  We had no idea at the time how much this would impact our lives.  If I could wish for anything back then it would have been a how to manual for parents on what to do for him and our family.  We also did not realize or understand why insurance companies do not cover many of the recommended therapies for Austin ie. Occupational Therapy or Psychiatrist that specialize in this field. 

Austin continually struggles with sensory issues, social cues, ADD, Anxiety and now we know he has a learning disorder.  All of these combined make for a very difficult time for Austin in school and other activities.  I pulled Austin from the public school system when he was in 3rd grade and home schooled him until he entered 6th grade last year.  He is now back in public school and struggling yet again. 

Last year I discovered an awesome opportunity.  Did you know that there are service dogs specifically trained to help kids with Autism?  Well there are.  At Autism Service Dogs of America in Oregon they train these loving dogs to help keep kids safe, secure and help them calm down if they are upset.  We applied this last summer and were approved!!!  Yes!  While this is very exciting this journey is just beginning.  In order to pay for the training of the dog, travel fees, costs for me to go get trained as a handler for a week, and for the trainer to come to our home and work with our whole family for a week we need to raise a minimum of $15,500.  This sounds overwhelming but there are over 70,000 people in the city we live in Auburn WA alone, if one quarter of those would donate just a dollar we would already be at our goal!  Every dollar helps.  So we are holding a Dollar Drive.  You can donate easily by clicking on the donate button.  Also please stop by and "like" our page on facebook Austin's Autism Service Dog Dollar Drive. 

Please help us give our son a miracle, the ability for security and Independence.  Thank you.

Holly