We’ve officially started the journey of securing a Diabetic Alert Dog (DAD) for Kay. The more I learn about Type 1 Diabetes and its unpredictable nature, the more I realize just how important this is for her. Managing diabetes is a 24/7 job, and for a child like Kay—who may not always recognize when her blood sugar is dangerously high or low—it can be life-threatening.
That’s why we’re working towards getting her a Diabetic Alert Dog, a highly trained companion that can detect changes in her blood sugar before they become dangerous. This isn’t just a pet—it’s a lifesaving partner that will: Alert us to dangerous blood sugar drops or spikes before they turn into emergencies, provide Kay with greater independence and security as she grows, help prevent medical crises, giving us peace of mind both day and night, and offer unwavering companionship and emotional support, allowing Kay to live a happy, carefree life.
Unfortunately, insurance does not cover the cost of these incredible service dogs. Training and placement are expensive, so I’ve been researching, applying for grants, and reaching out to organizations that might offer support—even if it’s just pointing me toward resources I may not have known about. My family graciously started a GoFundMe for Kay, and we’ve already been overwhelmed by the love and support we’ve received. We are not ones to ask for help, but as always, I am doing everything I can to support Kay and make life just a little bit easier for her as we navigate Type 1 Diabetes together. A Diabetic Alert Dog wouldn’t just benefit her—it would also provide me with reassurance, knowing that even when technology fails, we have another layer of protection.
A perfect example of why this is so important happened today at school. Kay’s continuous glucose monitor (CGM) lost signal, meaning no data was being shared. No alerts were sent when her blood sugar went too high or too low—both of which are dangerous. Sometimes the signal comes back on its own, but other times, the CGM needs to be replaced entirely. While she’s at school, I have no way of checking her phone. Instead, I have to rely on her teachers hearing her phone alarm—but even then, it only goes off after 20 minutes of no data, which is far too long. A Diabetic Alert Dog would change everything. These highly trained dogs can detect changes in blood sugar 20 to 30 minutes before a CGM does (when it’s working properly). If Kay’s technology fails—or isn’t working correctly—her service dog would still be able to alert a nearby adult, ensuring she gets the help she needs right away.
Kay is surrounded by an incredible community of people who love and support her in so many ways, even if it’s just sending good thoughts our way. I know that together, we will find a way to get Kay the lifesaving companion she deserves.