Help Hailey get a Service Dog

My daughter Hailey is a bright 18 year old University student studying music. If you were to see her on campus you would notice she is always wearing a set of noise cancelling headphones.

For most kids, especially a music student, this would not be out of the norm. For Hailey these headphones are a necessity, the only way she knows how to avoid having a Non-Epileptic Seizure in public, a seizure which leaves her fully aware of what is happening but unable to control her body, speak and at times she stops breathing. These attacks can last anywhere from 30-45 minutes. Prior to wearing the headphones Hailey was having these seizures 3-4 times a day.

She suffers from Tourette Syndrome which causes complex motor and vocal tics. At times these tics are so out of control she is a danger to herself. It makes it difficult at times to perform simple tasks like cutting food or taking a drink. Her tics are can be non stop for hours and are violent movements of her arms, legs, neck, face and back. These constant jerking motions leave her sore and tired.

There are many triggers that can cause her tics to become extreme but Hailey's biggest challenge is noise and being in crowds. Her tics become so extreme they cause tic attacks which lead to non-epileptic seizures. She has tried every medication available but the only thing that helps avoid the seizures is her noise cancelling headphones. Not only does this mean she misses out on conversations, but it puts her in danger as she is not aware of her surroundings. A major challenge for a young female University student.

Her Doctor has advised that a Service dog could help to improve her quality of life. A Service Dog can help reduce her tics with Deep Pressure Therapy. The Service dog will be able to assist Hailey during her seizures. She will learn to rely on the Service dog instead of the headphones. We are hopeful that with time and bonding the dog will be able to help control the tics enough that the seizures may not happen at all or at least the dog may be able to alert her before they happen so she is able to get somewhere safe before having one.

We are hoping to raise $30,000 to help Hailey get a Service Dog and start living a normal the life. She has worked so hard to get to University and we want her to experience all University has to offer.

If you can help by donating or sharing this link we would really appreciate it.

Sincerely,

The Scott Family