Four years ago, my daughter, Emma, was diagnosed with a rare condition called autoimmune encephalitis, or AE. Instead of producing antibodies to combat illness, her body generates antibodies that attack her brain. Doctors have likened it to “her brain on fire,” and the reality is every bit as harsh as it sounds. She has experienced seizures that rendered her lifeless multiple times, relies on a feeding tube for nutrition, and often struggles to walk or talk. Yet, through it all, she continues to smile. While there is no cure for her condition, its symptoms are managed through a regimen of numerous medications and regular chemotherapy and blood infusions.
I have repeatedly asked the universe for some relief, pleading with every higher power I could think of. But it felt futile. I couldn’t change the course of her illness. Then, in December 2018, I received an email informing me that two generous donors had decided to fund a service dog for Emma. On Christmas morning, she received the incredible news, and I witnessed a spark of life return to her eyes.
In early 2019, Emma was presented with profiles of two dogs. After reviewing both with tears of joy, she pointed to one and said, “That’s my Bella.” From that moment, they were destined for each other. Bella had much to learn before she could come home, not only basic commands like “sit” and “stay,” but also how to behave in various public settings. Training a service dog is time-consuming, and Emma kept in touch with Bella through FaceTime, care packages, and letters. They finally met in January of the following year.
Their connection was immediate. Bella seemed to understand that Emma was her girl, and Emma recognized that Bella was the friend she had been longing for. Though they only had 24 hours together, it felt like a lifetime. Bella diligently alerted Emma to seizures, and Emma showered Bella with affection. Despite the chaos around them, it was as if they existed in their own world. The goodbye was difficult, but the hope we carried from witnessing their bond was invaluable.
Unfortunately, Emma’s health took a turn for the worse that spring. At just 13 years old, she weighed a mere 57 pounds. Her heart rate was low, and her liver and thyroid functions were not performing well. It seemed her body was exhausted and ready to give up. A feeding tube was inserted to sustain her life, but the overall quality of that life was lacking. Emma had fought valiantly but was running out of strength. The outlook was grim.
Then Bella came home.
Bella infused Emma’s life with joy, inspiration, and a renewed sense of purpose. Just by being near, Bella encouraged Emma to strive to communicate more clearly. Even when Emma struggled to express herself, Bella remained devoted to her tasks. When Emma experienced muscle pain, she didn’t succumb to her wheelchair; instead, she utilized it only when necessary and committed herself to physical therapy, knowing Bella needed her to be strong. Despite the pain, Emma pushed through, motivated by their bond. Each day, she grew a little stronger.
While Emma’s seizures didn’t cease, they became less overwhelming. Bella frequently alerts Emma before a seizure occurs, allowing her to find a safe space, thereby minimizing the harm caused. On occasions when a seizure is triggered without prior warning, Bella knows how to get help, which shortens the duration of the episodes and aids in recovery. Perhaps most remarkable is how Bella’s training has boosted Emma’s confidence, enabling her to engage in activities independently.
Today, Emma is twice the size she was in March. Her physical and mental strength has improved significantly, and her outlook is brighter than ever. Bella has offered Emma a fresh start in life. Together, they set and achieve goals that once seemed impossible. Emma, who was once told she would never read again, is now an honor roll student, and she and Bella have even co-founded an Etsy shop, becoming budding philanthropists with their earnings.
While Bella hasn’t granted Emma eternal life, she has made every moment of her journey meaningful.
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Summary:
Emma’s battle with autoimmune encephalitis took a hopeful turn when she received Bella, a service dog who has transformed her life. Through their deep bond, Emma has gained confidence, improved her health, and achieved goals once thought unattainable. This story illustrates the profound impact a service dog can have on a child’s journey through chronic illness.
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Service Dog, Chronic Illness, Autoimmune Encephalitis, Emma’s Journey, Bella the Service Dog, Health Transformation
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