The sound of the doorbell ringing as the kids run to grab sweets and holler "trick or treat," the bonfires, and the season of gratitude - fall has it all. Hope. Joy. Quality Time. This is what we're thankful for. A reminder to slow down and take in the little things - recount the moments that matter.
Five years ago, we started this tradition of "thankful thanksgivings" with permission from our parents to share with you the "next chapter" after placement - the "epilogue," so to speak. What happens after a child and their dog go into the sunset? That's when the magic begins...
At 11 years old, in 2020, Diego had been surrounded by love since birth. A sweet, loving, and funny boy whose journey to his service dog while living with autism, depression, ADHD & severe anxiety has been paved in music and art. Diego struggled to make friends, and his anxiety was very severe: it affected all aspects of not only his everyday life but his family's life as well, making it difficult to do everyday things that we take for granted. For example, a simple trip to the store would send him into a complete sensory overload. The hope?
"To give Diego an independence that I couldn't give him myself."
- Tess, Diego's Mom
He loved to be outdoors, loved to do yard work, and loved his music therapy class. And then the world shut down. In response to a crisis, eighteen bands played over five days, streaming virtually from The Winchester Music Tavern and The Beachland Ballroom. The event was organized by local musician and Diego's music therapy teacher - Dave Deike and raised over $9,000 to give Diego the gift of his service dog. Relive the moments
Soulmates, partners & best friends for life - Diego received his service dog, Luna, just before Christmas 2022. From the first moment, they got the book - Diego read from cover to cover before his first training session. Their first meeting...magnetic.
"Luna has been life-changing for Diego. She gives him a confidence in himself that he lacked before. We have done activities over the last 6 months with Luna that Diego was unable to do before, such as going to a movie, eating out at a restaurant, zoo trips, and even something as simple as a trip to the grocery store. Diego also sleeps in his room all night now, thanks to Luna. She makes his hard days doable!"
Drive on, Diego! Thankful for all the memories these two have already made and all the milestones to come!
I look forward to sharing another Thankful Thanksgiving every Thursday this November.
Click Here to learn more about the children who are still waiting for their moment of joy to happen. Together, let’s make 2024 overflow with possibilities!