Tom Bedford's Assistance Dog Appeal

Thank you for visiting our fundraising page.

This is our little man Tom. He is 8 years old.

Tom was diagnosed at 2 ½ years with Autism, Epilepsy and a chromosome deletion. He has a large vocabulary but cannot communicate his needs or ask for help.

Tom enjoys attending Wilson School for special education, 2 1/2 hours a day.

He is an extremely creative, happy boy who loves the beach, singing - running free and lights up the world with a beautiful smile and a ready laugh. We are blessed with an incredibly supportive family who celebrate his uniqueness.

Tom is an avid explorer who loves being outdoors. He has no concept of danger and will run away at any opportunity. This makes his safety a constant concern. Everyday outings in the world are very stressful for Tom; they generate massive anxiety which often leads to distressing meltdowns he can’t control. This has often meant family outings are abandoned or avoided. Our family often splits up to enable daily life while keeping Tom safe and happy.

And then came Amber…

Amber is an ADNZ Assistance Dog who has been specially trained to match the needs of Tom. She has captured our hearts and is already transforming lives.

From the moment they met, Tom and Amber had a special connection that needs no words. Over the past few weeks Amber has become Tom’s playmate, leader, enabler, voice, safe place, and companion.

Amber gives Tom:

• Increased safety - While tethered to Amber, Tom cannot run on to the road or put himself in dangerous situations, as Amber acts as an anchor.

• Increased independence - We can go out as a family, and Tom can explore more of the world.

• Increased understanding from strangers - People view Tom less as a “naughty child” but rather a little boy getting the help he needs from his beautiful assistance dog.

• Enabling socialisation - Amber’s presence encourages people to approach and interact with Tom.

• Supporting his medical needs - Amber is with Tom for medical procedures and hospital visits and helps him feel safe and calm. She provides comfort during and after an epilepsy seizure.

• A calming influence - in overwhelming sensory environments Tom focuses on Amber, she is his buddy.

And lastly and most importantly, Amber is Tom’s forever friend, and in him she has found her forever home!!

We are so very grateful that the passionate team, that is ADNZ believe in the life changing abilities of these exceptional dogs.

It costs up to $48,000 to raise an Assistance Dog throughout its life. Recipients of ADNZ Assistance Dogs are required to help the Charity by raising money towards the costs associated with training an Assistance Dog. The Trust relies totally on community generosity, our fundraising goal is $20,000.

Please follow Tom and Amber’s page on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Tom-Amber-160526001436238/