Mentally imprisoned Reagan Collura knows no fear
Our beautiful daughter, Reagan, has been dealt quite the hand in her short life. She was only two days old when the doctors located a heart murmur. Due to what appeared to be global developmental delay, we had some very intricate genetic testing done and at age 18 months, Reagan was diagnosed with Chromosome 18 q- and Trisomy P Syndromes, which are extremely rare and very difficult for which to provide a prognosis.
Reagan was not mobile until she was 3.5 years old and even then, she was very unstable. It was around that time when we noticed some hearing issues and she was tested and fitted for a hearing aid, but due to narrowing ear canals, the device was unsuccessful and she does suffer from hearing loss in her left ear.
Reagan’s early diagnoses do not define her, but she does have a lot of challenges that seem to be affecting her ability to do and understand things when compared to her six-year-old peers… she is non-verbal and learning alternative ways to communicate; however, her frustration often gets the best of her.
In addition to the medical diagnoses, she recently underwent brain surgery for a Chiari I malformation decompression at The Cleveland Clinic to alleviate 70% pressure from her spinal cord, ultimately assisting her in mobility and agility.
We are happy to report that the surgery was successful and she is a “busy” six-year old. Recently, her pediatrician has discussed his concerns of autistic behavior, so we are now embarking upon some new territory as we research what it means to be a parent of such a loving, yet mentally-imprisoned child who knows NO FEAR.
We do see a light at the end of the tunnel that could help Reagan with her frustrations, all while keeping her safe . . . it involves getting her a service dog. There is an organization, 4 Paws for Ability, in Xenia, Ohio that actually trains service dogs for children with multiple disabilities and/or autism!
Reagan needs a dog of her very own with training in behavior disruption, tracking, and tethering. But, we need YOUR help. We are raising funds as a volunteer for 4 Paws in order to qualify to receive the dog. Can you find it in your heart to donate funds in Reagan’s honor to help keep Reagan safe?
Please be sure to mention “in honor of REAGAN COLLURA” in the subject line so she receives credit toward her miracle dog and the fundraising requirement. All donations are tax-deductible and greatly appreciated! We thank you from the bottom of our hearts and admire you for changing the life of a child.
Sincerely,
The Collura Family: Dottie, Mike, Gabe and Reagan
Note: I highly endorse 4 Paws for Ability as a source for extremely well-trained service dogs. The organization is sound and its goals exceptional. Judy Vorfeld.