Real Life Story

KK was born with mastocytosis, a rare illness that causes her to have allergic reactions that can progress rapidly to anaphylactic shock, which is life-threatening.

Anything & everything can potentially become a trigger for KK, and often with no warning.

Michelle, KK’s mom, says, “KK can have a reaction by doing things kids do..."

“I was excited about the idea of having a service dog to watch over KK, & get help for her if necessary. But unfortunately, ...

“... didn’t train dogs for that condition, or that KK was too young. We were struggling to make a positive connection.”

Until she left a message for Kristin Hartness with Canines for Disabled Kids.

(CDK) provided her with invaluable support by recommending service dog providers, confirming her trust in the organization they selected..., providing a scholarship for helping them obtain JJ, & educating Michelle & KK’s school on working with a medical alert service dog.

“Before we had JJ, KK would have an anaphylactic reaction 3-4 times a year. Now she’s only had three in the past 5 years, “Michelle explains. “This is because JJ smells the chemical change at the onset, before it becomes severe.”

For parents of children with life-threatening medical conditions, sending their child off to school is anything but routine.

KK attends school & much more as she takes on the world, with JJ by her side.

Read KK's full story & see where your donations are taking her & scholarship teams like her on our website. 

Abbreviated from A Dog with Wings: The Story of KK her 'Angel': Medical Alert Dog JJ by Janis D Gioia