The beginning

This is one of the places that we will keep family and friends posted with our efforts to fundraising for Annie's service dog.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                              Contact: Joshua Havel 859-907-4625

                                  Email: helpannietoday@yahoo.com

INDEPENDENCE, KENTUCKY (May 1, 2011)—Annie Havel needs a service dog so she can be assisted in living a life of independence so many tend to take for granted.  Annie is a three-year-old with autism and motor skills issues, and her family is convinced that if she gets a service dog, it could help her and possibly save her life one day if she were to ever run away.

A service dog costs approximately $13,000, an amount that parents of three children can’t afford on their own, but are hoping to get the funds to purchase a dog through 4 Paws for Ability, a non-profit organization that trains dogs and solicits donations for families to receive the dog. Autism affects about one in every 110 children in the United States. 

About a year and a half ago, Annie was diagnosed with autism, ADHD and a sensory disorder. Annie also “toe walks” and must wear leg braces to keep her feet flat as she walks. As a result of her diagnosis, her family started doing research to find out how they could help their daughter develop as best she can like her twin, Joslyn, who is without any handicaps. In order to keep her autism somewhat under control, Annie is required to be administered 14 different medications a day, and must be under constant supervision.

“She’s a trooper, and she’s very compassionate,” father Joshua Havel said. “She’s come a long way. It’s definitely been a challenge. With the help of a service dog Annie may be able to experience the freedom of not being confided to a stroller while in public. Annie is such a special little girl and it is truly heart breaking to know that she does not get the experiences that others her age do because of her autism.”

4 Paws for Ability trains the dogs—a cost of $20,000 alone—and engages families in fundraising efforts to raise the minimum of $13,000 before a dog is given to a needy applicant. All donations are tax-deductible and 90 percent of the placements are with children with special needs.            

Donations may be made through the website, www.4pawsforability.org. To make other donations of prizes for fundraising events, please contact the Havel family. For those interested in helping Annie and her family, please contact Joshua Havel at 859-907-4625 or helpannietoday@yahoo.com.