At just sixteen, Emily’s needs are complex, requiring both physical and emotional support for a rare condition which leaves her in constant pain and with limited mobility, her needs are further complicated by autism.
As Mum, Sarah explains: “when I heard Emily was to be matched with an assistance dog I just cried with tears of joy. Emily’s world is filled with fear and anxiety and she desperately needed a friend. That’s what she’s found in Simpson.”
Laughter can now be heard from Emily’s room as Simpson helps her get ready for school in the morning. He helps by picking up books and pens she’ll need in her school bag and sometimes a few other items she doesn’t need like her slippers or the TV remote!
These puppyish antics have brought a new element of fun to Emily’s life and made family life a little easier.
But that’s only half the story for Emily, who until she had Simpson would rarely have the confidence to speak to anyone outside her close family and school teachers.
Says Sarah: “Quite simply she’s just more confident and relaxed with him by her side. Everything about Simpson is positive. People see Simpson and they understand that Emily needs a bit of extra time and help, but they talk to her and that makes her feel good about herself. Simpson is the best thing that’s happened to Emily in a very long time. Her life is better and that makes a difference to our whole family.”
Make a donationSupport Dogs for the DisabledChildren's assistance dog service info (aged 7 – 16 years)
