Kortney has what is called POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). She was diagnosed when she was 12 years old and has been dealing with it ever since. They thought Kortney would grow out of it, but she has recently turned 18 and has not grown out of it as of now. The doctors have decided a service dog would be helpful for her.
If she was able to afford to get a service dog, the dog would be able to help if she passed out, retrieve certain items she may need, and also learn to smell and give warnings before she passes out.
What happens with Kortney is her heart rate shoots up and blood pressure can drop which can cause her to pass out, this happens from changing positions. Because of this condition it makes her very sensitive to medicine and she doesn't always have the "normal" reactions. Kortney also gets cold very easily and her lips, toes and fingertips will turn shades of blue. Kortney also suffers from migraines and idiopathic insomnia, which can be side effects so to speak of POTS. There have also been times when she has had to pull over driving and call me or her dad to come get her because of feeling faint or just off from this condition.
Kortney is a fighter and refuses to let it keep her down. For the last 10 years she has played volleyball, which has not always been the easiest with this condition, but she goes and gives 100% in everything she does despite the consequences. She has been lucky enough to have some teammates that are very understanding and helpful to her and this condition.
Kortney is planning on going to college out of state and studying Kinesiology and then going on to Chiropractic School. Having the service dog would be a great support system for her since Kortney will not be around her current support system.
If you are able to give to help Kortney, get her service dog it would be greatly appreciated. THANK YOU
