Help Sam get his service dog

I would like to introduce you to my nephew, Sam. He is a kid with a great sense of humor. He loves sharing about his favorite animals and his most recent visit to the zoo. Sam has been with the Turngren family since he was two days old and they welcomed him into his forever family when he was one year old. It’s important to remember, however, that Sam faced many obstacles before and after his birth. His rocky start began before he was born as his birth mom had no prenatal care and he was exposed to drugs in utero. He even suffered a stroke in utero. He was born with cerebral palsy, fetal alcohol syndrome and mixed developmental disabilities.


Sam received many Early Childhood Services until he was three years old- occupational therapy, physical therapy, social/emotional therapy and speech/feeding therapy. Though he has made some gains, he continues to struggle. He is on the Autism Spectrum and is known for fleeing when upset. His anxiety precludes him from attending public school and impedes his ability to participate in typical social activities. Due to his social deficits, he has been the recipient of bullying.

Sam’s developmental pediatrician has recommended a service dog and the Turngren family has partnered with SIT Service Dogs in Ava. IL. A service dog with help Sam with mobility, seizure alerts, sleep disorders and bridge the gap with his social skills. Most of all the service dog will give Sam confidence in social settings and, hopefully, foster greater independence. The purchase of a service dog is a life changing, but expensive venture. It includes not only the cost of the dog, but other items like training, certification maintenance and travel expenses.

A little more about Sam- He loves animals and visiting local zoos and amusement parks. His dream is to become a zookeeper. During his 1:1 school day, he enjoys learning about different breeds of animals. Sam also enjoys watching his favorite football team- the Jacksonville Jaguars. Being in the community presents many challenges for Sam. Hopefully he will be more successful with the support of a service dog. The money he receives will be put towards the financial needs of purchasing a service dog- the dog, training, certification maintenance, etc. The Turngren family, Sam and I thank you for your support.