Judy Vorfeld’s Office Support Services

This is Hailey Meusch, at two years old, she looks like any average toddler. But, at 21 months old, Hailey was diagnosed with PDD-NOS, an Autism Spectrum Disorder that makes her life difficult.

Because of the disability, Hailey has no speech, she cannot point, she shows little eye contact, she shows no imaginitive play. Hailey does not understand simple commands such as sit down or come here. Hailey also has sensory issues that result in her throwing her head back against anything if she becomes overstimulated or angry; she has meltdowns daily where she screams, arches her back and is inconsolable for an hour or so. She bites herself as well as pinches her stomach if she gets bored.

Hailey has no fear of danger such as traffic or water. She will gladly go with a stranger. When we go to the store, we have to force her to stay in the cart or she will bolt away the first chance she gets…

Hailey does not respond to her name and if she wanders away, that is a very frightful experience. All of this has had a big impact on Hailey’s life.

Before the age of two she had MRI’s, EEG’s, evaulations, testing, and more doctor appointments than we care to think about. Each week she has an Occupational Therapist, Speech Therapist and Special Education teacher that come to our home for therapy. She also has behavioral therapy out of the home.

All the therapy, testing & doctor appointments can be hard on Hailey because sometimes they disrupt her routine. Hailey thrives on a routine and has a meltdown when they are interrupted.

An Autism Assistance Dog from 4 Paws For Ability would be a blessing to Hailey & her family. It could help to improve our lives in so many ways, allowing Hailey some independence of being able to walk without the constant fear from her parents that she will wander away. This dog would be a true friend & constant companion for Hailey, helping to calm her if she should become overstimulated.

Any and all donations are greatly appreciated. Every penny gets us closer to our doggie miracle coming home! You can make a donation to 4 Paws with Hailey Meusch’s name in the memo. Thank you so much!

This entry was posted on Friday, January 4th, 2008 at 7:40 pm and is filed under Animals, Community Service, Disabilities. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.