Morgan Bush

In February 2021, our daughter Morgan was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. This diagnosis has helped us understand so much more about our fun loving, outgoing daughter. Through a lot of research, it was decided a service dog would improve her quality of life and safety.

Morgan loves to run and explore through the Bremen Street Park in East Boston, play in the water at Constitution Beach, and get messy with paint! If it involves running around, Morgan will do it!

Morgan is at risk of “elopement” or “wandering.” This occurs when a child with cognitive challenges or special needs wanders, runs away from, or leaves her environment with no warning. This is extremely stressful and traumatic when it happens (and it has many times).

We brought home our puppy, Arnie, two months ago to start this journey. Now that he is of age, he can start his service dog training. Having a service dog will help keep Morgan safe in many environments. Autism service dogs can help on demand in an event of elopement. They can also facilitate communication with peers and provide “deep pressure therapy,” which is a strategy used to minimize symptoms or panic and anxiety. They can also be taught to mitigate repetitive behaviors.

The cost of service dog training is very expensive and not covered by health insurance. I will be traveling to Gilford’s Golden Guardians 2-3 times a month with Arnie for the training. The program is 10 months long.

Donations through Help Hope Live will help ease the financial burden we face as a family. The entire cost of the program is $20,000. We are hoping to raise $10,000 for the initial deposit through this campaign page and have an in-person fundraiser if needed. All donations are disbursed by Help Hope Live and go directly to the service dog program.

Thank you for your support and taking the time to read our story and help us give our daughter a safe life.