Sweet, lonely Caitlin needs special service dog
Caitlin Wentzel is a six-year-old girl diagnosed with a genetic disease called Osteogenesis Imperfecta. Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) is a disease that affects the collagen in her bones and causes her bones to break with little or no trauma. She walks very short distances with the assistance of a walker and uses a wheelchair most of the time.
In the past 4 years, Caitlin has sustained 8 fractures to various bones in her legs. The pain is no less for her than for anyone else who breaks a bone. Her mobility is greatly affected by this terrible disease. The disease is progressive and Cait finds that everyday things that she could once do, she is no longer able to do.
Caitlin is our only child and we live in Normal, Illinois. Cait absolutely loves people and wants to have relationships with children her own age. Due to her OI, Caitlin cannot safely play among her peers and requires constant assistance and supervision. She is a very positive little girl that never complains about pain. However, she is afraid of so many things - all for fear that she may break a bone. Cait has had very sad moments and is extremely lonely.
You can help!
4 PAWS FOR ABILITY is a wonderful program. It is an organization that provides service dogs for children and adults who have special needs.
Cait’s dog will help her remain calm and courageous during times of pain and her monthly medical visits to St. Louis Children’s Hospital. 4 PAWS FOR ABILITY will train her dog specifically for her needs: retrieving items, opening doors and drawers, providing balance - all things that will give Cait a greater sense of independence and freedom.
Above all, her new friend will provide her with love, security and friendship. Her peers will notice her dog, not her wheelchair or walker.
4 PAWS FOR ABILITY is an amazing non-profit organization training dogs to help people with disabilities. We are thankful for this organization and our family is so grateful for your support!
When donating to 4 Paws in honor of Caitlin Wentzel, you will help grant a wish come true for our family. Please make checks out to 4 PAWS FOR ABILITY and be sure to write “in honor of Caitlin Wentzel” on the memo portion of the check. This is a great cause and your donation is tax deductible!
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.