Help Tommy Find His Freedom

Here at Tree of Hope we’re always learning about conditions and the ways in which they can be treated. Tommy received an autism diagnosis in 2017 and is a condition that affects his social interaction, communication, interests and behavior.

Tommy was struggling with everyday activities and so his family reached out to Autism Therapy Dog specialist Supporting Paws, in Kent to apply for an Autism Support Dog.

Tommy’s family got accepted onto Supporting Paws programme and enlisted our help to raise the £8000 needed to fund the dog itself as well as a full two year training programme. The family have to complete their training programmes before their dog lives with them full time.

When Tommy met his companion Woody for the first time at training, Mum Coral told us: “It was the most incredible experience. Tommy’s behavior changed dramatically. He was calm at all times. He didn’t attempt to run off either. I can’t stress enough the difference it made having Woody there with Tommy. I’m really hoping we raise the money for this life changing opportunity.”

From the very first training session Tommy had, Coral was blown away by his development and confidence to do simple everyday things such as going to the shops and asking to go on family walks, things that he wouldn’t have dreamed of wanting to do before without Teddy.

Tommy’s family managed to raise the funds in just under a year and has transformed Tommy and his families everyday life in ways they never expected, as Coral explains here:

“Tommy absolutely adores Teddy. Teddy brings a sense of calm to Tommy and is always there for big cuddles. The benefit of having Teddy in our home has been life changing for Tommy. He most certainly has the best friend he has always wanted. Before we had Teddy, Tommy would spend a lot of time upstairs but this has changed since Teddy has been here. We are so lucky and thankful.”