Help Karissa get a Medical Alert Service Dog

Dearest Friends & Family of Karissa,

As many of you know Karissa was in a life changing accident on January 9th, 2023. We are so grateful she survived this serious accident.

Karissa lost consciousness at the wheel resulting in a severe foot injury and the beginning of mysterious symptoms that continued to cause her to pass out without warning. After many tests she received her official diagnosis, Karissa has Neurocardiogenic Syncope (NCS). NCS is a condition characterized by temporary loss of consciousness or fainting, typically triggered by changes in heart rate and blood pressure due to dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system. Additionally, NCS can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. Frequent fainting episodes can cause fear, anxiety, and limitations in daily activities, leading to decreased independence and reduced participation in work, school, or social activities.

If you know Karissa you know that she is a fighter. When she received her NCS diagnosis she immediately began researching her options. Since NCS is a chronic condition there is no cure, however there are ways for her to lead a relatively normal life. One of her options is to have a service dog trained to detect heart rate, blood pressure and other physiological cues that may indicate an impending episode. Having a service dog that can alert Karissa to this before she loses consciousness would be invaluable to her. This would provide the safety and security she needs to go back to work and regular daily activities.

As you can imagine, the cost of acquiring and training a service dog is substantial. Despite her unwavering determination and perseverance, it would be extremely challenging for Karissa to pay the $15,000 for a service dog to assist her . That's why we are launching a fundraising campaign to help raise the funds needed to provide Karissa with a service dog. Your donation, no matter how small or large, can make a tremendous difference in Karissa's life. Together, we can help her gain the support and independence she deserves. Please join us by donating and sharing this fundraiser. Your generosity will go a long way in supporting Karissa and her family and providing her with the invaluable gift of a service dog. Over the last several years, Karissa has selflessly given to her community. From keeping inmates and fellow officers safe as a corrections officer to working tirelessly as an EMT. Not to mention, even coaching the STSJP volleyball team. Nothing would mean more to Karissa and her family than seeing the community come together to return the favor and allow Karissa this life changing opportunity. Thank you for your kindness and support.