My name is Jennifer and I was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF) at birth. CF is a genetic disorder that affects mostly the lungs, but also the pancreas, liver, kidneys, and intestine. Due to this, I also have cirrhosis of the liver.
CF is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time. Things are starting to change with my illness where a service dog would help make it easier for me. It could help me with tasks such as carrying groceries, reminding me to take medicines, monitor my oxygen level, and possibly one day carry an oxygen tank. Going out would also promote exercising which is important for me to help with lung function and clearance.
I was born and raised around a fire department so from an early age I always helped around the station. One thing I helped with was washing and drying the trucks with my dad and brothers. As I grew up the others members became like family and I was able to join when I was old enough. I pass out water on calls and take photos to update our stations social media pages. Through the fire department I got recruited by the county animal response team (CART). I have a passion for animals. I also enjoy geocaching and spending time at a friend’s barn spending time and riding the horses.
As you can imagine, the cost for purchasing a fully trained dog can cost as much as $80,000. Sadly, insurance does not help with any of the cost. When you have a limited income it makes it hard to make it happen financially. Raising a puppy can cut down on some of the costs.
My goal is to raise a puppy to become my service dog. Through some friends that own and train working dogs, financially this is the best option for me. They plan on me training along with my puppy for better bonding. Donations will help me achieve my goal of having an extra set of eyes on me to alert if something seems off, and to help with whatever I need.
I am a mom to a wonderful daughter. Something I never thought to be possible since Cystic Fibrosis can cause infertility issues. Now more than ever it is important for me to keep healthy so I can be the best mom I can.
Family and friends of Jennifer Ralston are raising money for the nonprofit Help Hope Live to fund uninsured medical expenses associated with Catastrophic Illness.
Jennifer has chosen to fundraise for Help Hope Live in part because Help Hope Live assures fiscal accountability of funds raised and tax deductibility to the full extent allowed by law for contributors. Contributors can be sure donations will be used to pay or reimburse medical and related expenses. To make a tax-deductible donation to this fundraising campaign, click on the Give button.
For more information, please contact Help Hope Live at 800.642.8399.
Thank you for your support!
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