Have you ever heard of Paws With a Cause? I had not until my good friend (BFF) Lori, told me about it. Her son Daniel is Autistic.
I met Daniel once earlier this year, when I was doing a Stampin' Up! workshop in Staten Island, at her home with her friends. He is so sweet and wonderful.
I am not a stranger to Autism. My dear nephew Anthony who just turned 17 and also lives in Staten Island, NY is Autistic and my bestfriend who lives in Vermont, Erika has a son who is Autistic as well.
These children and young adults are the sweeties, kindest soles! They live the life of a child forever.
The ranges of Autism varies quite a bit.
As for Daniel, he does not speak and has many issues. So being able to have an Assisted Dog would help him considerable, but they cost $10,000.
Lori, Daniels' Mom is putting together a FUN Scrapbook Crop to help raise money towards this very important cause.
I will be helping raise money by offering fun Make It Take It's at this event and selling Scrapbook Pages I've made already as well as donating stamping supplies thanks to the Stampin' Up! as well.
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I asked Lori if she could write up a short story about Daniel for me that I could share with you.
She sent it to me about 30 minutes later. She is such an awesome patient, caring and loving Mom and friend! She would do anything for her family and friends.
The beautiful and touching short story she wrote is below.
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Daniel Patrick was born in Staten Island, New York on July 28th, 1999. It was the best day of my life. I had tried to get pregnant for 15 years and had given up all hope but then found out I was pregnant at the age of 36.
He was my miracle baby. Daniel was diagnosed with PDD at 15 months of age and then autism at the age of three. He does not speak but his eyes show everything that you need to know. He is the most loving and affectionate child you could meet. He lives in a world where hatred and prejudice don't exist.
Daniel had the pleasure of receiving dog therapy in school for two years and for a short period of time at home. He enjoyed the time with his canine friends. They were his companions for playing ball and taking a walk. It also taught him the responsibility of learning how to take care of a pet while grooming and feeding them.
Since this time we have applied to several companies for a therapy dog with no success. We have hit a few bumps in the road due to age restrictions and monetary issues until Paws with a Cause accepted our application for a Social Support Dog. We have to raise $10,000 which is the amount of money it takes to train the dog.
Our home is open and ready for a our new addition and when he/she is delivered we want to invite everyone who has contributed in any way to our home for an open house so that that they can see Daniel and his new best friend!
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